Content about U.S. Department of Commerce

March 13, 2013
February retail sales up 1.1%, exceeding expectations

Retail spending in the United States rose a better-than-expected 1.1% in February, the highest increase since September, according to figures released by the U.S. Department of Commerce.

New York -- Retail spending in the United States rose a better-than-expected 1.1% in February, the highest increase since September, according to figures released Wednesday by the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Sales, excluding gasoline, building materials and autos, rose 0.4%. Industry experts said the rise indicates that consumer spending is holding up even in the face of the higher payroll tax.

November 14, 2012
NRF report: Sandy and fiscal cliff send October retail sales downward

The National Retail Federation said that, for the first time in three months, retail sales ticked down slightly as consumers cooled discretionary spending in the face of inclement weather and uncertainty in Washington.

Washington, D.C. -- The National Retail Federation said Wednesday that, for the first time in three months, retail sales ticked down slightly as consumers cooled discretionary spending in the face of inclement weather and uncertainty in Washington.

October retail sales (excluding automobiles, gas stations and restaurants) decreased 0.3% seasonally adjusted from September yet increased 3.9% unadjusted year-over-year.



November 1, 2012
It’s the Data and Calendar, Not Your Gut This Holiday

By Shelley E. Kohan, RetailNext

By Shelley E. Kohan, shelley@retailnext.net

In reviewing month-to­-month sales results, the saw tooth performance of 2012 has left many retailers wondering the fate of holiday this year. Early predictions for holiday comp sales results have hinted to low single digits.

December 14, 2010
U.S. retail sales rise in November

Tuesday’s report by the U.S. Department of Commerce showed a fifth straight month of sales gains in November for U.S. retailers.

Washington, D.C. -- Tuesday’s report by the U.S. Department of Commerce showed a fifth straight month of sales gains in November for U.S. retailers. Monthly retail sales figures for November were up 0.8% over October and 7.7% over November 2009.

Retail sales excluding auto sales were up 1.2% over the previous month and 6.7% over November 2009.

Department stores were the big November winners, recording the biggest sales rise in two years of 2.8%.

July 31, 2008
Holiday Online Wish List

As we roll closer to the critical holiday shopping period, shoppers are still penny-pinching....

As we roll closer to the critical holiday shopping period, shoppers are still penny-pinching. The economy remains weak and gas prices are not getting any better.

But as consumers look online to research, compare gift prices and shop in the comfort of their own home, e-commerce could benefit from this situation come the fourth quarter.

June 30, 2008
Going Global

The current economic landscape is putting pressure on retailers, especially as consumers pull back...