U.S. retail growth in 2015 expected to hit four-year high: NRF

U.S. retail sales are expected to see the highest growth since 2011 this year boosted by an improving economy, an industry forecast said on Thursday.

Retail industry sales, which exclude automobiles, gas stations and restaurants, will increase 4.1 percent in 2015, up from the 3. 5 percent last year, said the National Retail Federation (NRF), the largest retail trade association in the United States.

The 4.1 percent gain would mark the biggest annual growth since 2011 when retail sales for the year rose 5.1 percent, said the Washington-based trade group.

"Already facing far fewer obstacles than this time last year in terms of growth opportunities, retailers are optimistic about the potential that exists for healthy growth in retail sales and consumer engagement in 2015," said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay in a statement.

"The economy appears to finally have gained some real traction and after a somewhat turbulent 2014, we expect to see continued gains in economic activity in the year ahead," said NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz in a statement.

"While our outlook for the year ahead is positive, we aren't quite out of the woods," said Shay, adding that retailers need "a commitment from our leaders in Washington to pass legislation that will encourage investment, create jobs and set us on the path towards sustained, long-term economic growth."

Also on Thursday, the U.S. Commerce Department said that January retail sales including automobiles, gas stations and restaurants decreased 0.8 percent over the previous month seasonally adjusted, and increased 3.3 percent unadjusted year on year.