The $380.2 billion figure was a 0.6 percent decline from January.

The figure is adjusted to account for seasonal variations and discrepancies in holidays that appear month to month, but not for price changes.

Although down from January, the retail trade sales were up 2.4 percent above February 2007, the report said.

Gasoline stations sales provided a big boost, up 20.2 percent, an indication that consumers are spending more, but not advancing their standard of living. Sales at sporting goods, hobby, book and music stores also advanced, up 6.3 percent from February 2007.