The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday edition that despite lingering inflation, U.S. consumers increased their spending this holiday season, early data show. A New York Times item inside The Globe says that comes as a big relief for retailers that had spent much of the year fearing the economy would soon weaken and spending would fall. Retail sales from Nov. 1 to Dec. 24 increased 3.1 per cent from a year earlier, according to Mastercard Spending-Pulse, which measures in-store and on-line retail sales across all forms of payment. The numbers are not adjusted for inflation. Spending increased across many categories, with restaurants experiencing one of the largest jumps, 7.8 per cent. Apparel increased 2.4 per cent and groceries also had gains. The holiday sales figures, driven by a healthy labour market and wage gains, suggest that the U.S. economy remains strong. Despite the Federal Reserve's campaign to rein in high inflation, many economists believe a soft landing is within reach. Some retailers had expressed concerns about reluctant shoppers in recent months. Walmart and Target noted that shoppers seemed to be waiting for sales before buying, a change from recent years when they spent more freely.