WASHINGTON (December 13, 2012)--Consumers spent more on autos, electronics and building supplies in November, and shopped more frequently online, which data suggests the economy is rebounding from disruptions caused by Superstorm Sandy, the U.S. Commerce Department said Thursday.

The Commerce Department said retail sales rose 0.3 percent in November, offsetting a 0.3 percent decline in October.

When excluding gas station sales, retail sales increased 0.8 percent.

The drop in gas station sales reflected lower prices.

The gains were widespread except at department stores, where sales dropped, which is a troubling development at the start of holiday shopping.

Still, sales at non-store retailers, which include online shopping, rose 3 percent, the biggest monthly gain in 13 months.