Michael Niemira
Michael Niemira
goods industry initially pick problem retailers sales selling spread start
I think initially the industry will try to keep the discounts more narrowly focused. The problem is, if sales don't pick up, retailers will start to spread out discounts to those goods not selling as well.
continue department easier hear retailers tone
I think you have to read between the lines. In September, retailers say things are on- to above-plan, that's reassuring, even with easier comparisons for the industry. The tone will be important, particularly with some of the department stores. If you continue to hear below-plan sales, that would be worrisome.
consumer continue credit hang major passive spend tends unless
Basically, the consumer will hang in there. Unless there's some kind of a major problem, the consumer tends to be more passive and will continue to spend if credit is available.
although completed decline dip holiday households latest nine percent shopping week
Increasingly, the post-Thanksgiving week dip has become a 'standard' part of the holiday shopping season. Although the latest week's decline was not encouraging, it was not necessarily worrisome as only nine percent of households have completed their holiday shopping.
act anytime gap signs together
I don't see any signs that Gap is going to get its act together anytime soon.
good inventory november pressure sales takes
If November sales are good and inventory is under control, that takes some of the sales pressure off in December.