Leading US retailers yesterday reported their first monthly sales gain since the financial collapse of September 2008, although most still saw lower sales than a year ago as shoppers remained focused on bargain hunting.

The 1.1 per cent rise in Retail Metrics' September comparable sales index emerged as the Labour Department reported that the number of workers claiming jobless benefits fell last week to the lowest level this year.

Ken Perkins, president of Retail Metrics, attributed the September comparable sales gain – the first increase since August 2008 – to stronger autumn fashions and promotions, and easy comparisons with a year ago when sales plunged. But Mr Perkins warned: “We would not interpret this month's results as a sign the consumer is back.” The monthly sales figures were supported by a later Labor Day holiday weekend, which shifted some back-to-school sales into September from August.

The figures showed shoppers continuing to favour lower-price retailers as they face uncertainties over unemployment and tighter credit. Comparable sales rose 5.5 per cent at Kohl's, the low-price department store, and by 7 per cent and 8 per cent, respectively, at TJX and Ross Stores, which focus on remaindered brands.

By contrast, Saks and Neiman Marcus, the up-market department stores, underlined the comparative weakness of US luxury demand, with comparable sales down 11.6 per cent and 16.9 per cent, respectively,

Sales at Macy's, the largest US department store chain, fell 2.4 per cent, while JC Penney saw a 1.4 per cent fall and Target, the mass discounter, reported a 1.2 per cent decline. Walmart, the largest US retailer, no longer reports comparable sales on a monthly basis.

Gregg Steinhafel, Target's chief executive, said the retailer “remained cautious” about the fourth quarter, despite the stronger-than-expected September, underling the continuing weakness of the consumer.