WASHINGTON (MNI) – The following is the text of the weekly retail
sales report released by Johnson Redbook Tuesday, for the month-to-date
through the week-ended Mar. 12:
The Johnson Redbook Retail Sales Index was up 2.0% in the second
week of March following a 2.0% gain in the first week. Month-to-date,
March is up 2.0% compared to March of last year (relative to a target of
a 2.5% gain). Month-over-month showed a 0.5% drop compared to February
(compared to a flat target). March is a five-week month on the retail
calendar, ending on April 2nd.
During the week itself, sales were somewhat volatile day to day,
largely the result of weather swings affecting customer traffic counts
in different regions. Sales remained below plan for the week and
month-to-date. Merchandise themes also tended to be somewhat unfocused.
Discount stores, with their more diverse lines, saw business in consumer
basics like food and household supplies. Department stores reported that
sales have picked up for spring apparel, sporting equipment and
gardening tools. Meanwhile, most store shelves are stocked with items
related to St. Patrick’s Day.
** Market News International Washington Bureau: 202-371-2121 **
[TOPICS: M$U$$$,MAUDS$]