Slow But Sure Layaway Sales

Carrying Christmas and holiday merchandise won’t be the only requirement for keeping merry customers and ensuring holiday profits this year. It’s true that wholesalers and the retailers they supply have been stocking shelves earlier and earlier each year, chasing the estimated $450 billion in holiday spending. However, since experiencing economic turmoil, increasing gas prices, and [...]

Buyer Confidence Ebbs as Worry, Fear and Uncertainty Loom

Shoppers’ belief in the growing economic rebound is being shaken as they find higher price tags, a new report says.

Survey: U.S. Small Business Confidence Climbs to Highest Level in Three Years

Signs continue to appear that consumers are getting more comfortable with the idea of spending more, fueling economic growth.

Consumer Confidence Hits Five-Month High as Recovery Gains Stronger Foothold

It’s more good news as indicators are strong that consumers are shaking off their fears and returning to their spending ways.

Retail Sales Up for Fourth Straight Month

In a hopeful sign for shopkeepers everywhere, the NRF reports that retail sales rose again in October. Is there a light at the end of the tunnel?

Consumer Confidence Rises Slightly

The Conference Board says consumers’ confidence in the economy was up slightly in August, a good sign for struggling retailers.

Layaway Attracts Shoppers

More shoppers are using layaway to make purchases, according to a survey conducted by Sears Holdings. Of consumers surveyed, 73 percent said that, “They believe using layaway more often is a smart financial solution that can help them better manage their spending.” Susan Ehrlich, president of financial services at Sears Holdings, was more specific. “Kmart’s [...]

Bullish Retail Segments

A number of retail segments are reporting some notable bright spots this year, according to research reported by NPD Group, a market analysis firm. Fashion and big appliances were the real winners, with dollar sales up 16 to 17 percent. Here’s a survey of the latest results: Fashion Accessories: The entire category was up 17 [...]