BERLIN, Nov 30 (Reuters) - German retail sales dropped more than expected in October on a monthly basis, sliding by 2.8 percent in real terms according to preliminary data released on Friday, which dashed hopes private consumption will remain a pillar of support for the economy.

The notoriously volatile indicator was down 0.8 percent on an annual basis. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast retail sales would fall by 0.2 percent on the month and gain 1.2 percent on the year.

(Reporting by Stephen Brown and Sarah Marsh) Keywords: GERMANY RETAIL/

(berlin.econ@thomsonreuters.com)(+49 30 2888 5210)

COPYRIGHT

Copyright Thomson Reuters 2012. All rights reserved.

The copying, republication or redistribution of Reuters News Content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Thomson Reuters.