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According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), retailers’ 2011 holiday sales beat expectations, rising 4.1 percent to $471.5 billion, surpassing NRF’s holiday sales forecast of 3.8 percent growth.

December retail industry sales (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) increased 4.1 percent unadjusted year-over-year and decreased .06 percent seasonally adjusted from November.

"The right mix of strong promotions, lean inventories and an emphasis on value put retailers in the perfect position to end the year on a high note," said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. “A better-than-expected holiday season is welcome news for an economic recovery that continues to be sluggish, and demonstrates retail’s powerful role as an engine of growth.”

December retail sales released today by the U.S. Commerce Department show total retail sales (which include non-general merchandise categories such as autos, gasoline stations and restaurants) increased 0.1 percent seasonally adjusted over November and a strong 6.2 percent unadjusted year-over-year.

As expected, consumers stocked up on discretionary gift items in December, including home décor, sporting goods, books and personal care items. Sales at furniture and home furnishings stores increased 1.0 percent seasonally adjusted from November and 5.7 percent unadjusted year-over-year

The world’s largest retail trade association represents retailers of all types and sizes from the United States and more than 45 countries.