Shoppers stepped up their spending in July, particularly at the nation’s auto dealerships. Retail sales rose 0.5% last month, a slowdown from a revised 0.9% gain in June, according to the Commerce Department’s report released Friday.

U.S. retail sales were boosted by strong demand for motor vehicles as well as promotions by Amazon and Walmart, though a softening labor market and higher goods prices could curb growth in consumer spending in the third quarter.

Spending at US retailers, including at restaurants and online, rose 0.5% in July, the Commerce Department said Friday. That’s down from June’s upwardly revised 0.9% gain, and in line with economists’ expectations. Retail sales are adjusted for seasonal swings, but not inflation.