Retailers face hit as sentiment falls to new low

Consumer confidence has plummeted to an all-time low, sending retailers an ominous signal for the remainder of 2008, according to the British Retail Consortium. The Nielsen/BRC UK Consumer Confidence index has tumbled to 79, compared... more »

Products back in Bluegrass

Churchill Weavers closed its doors in Berea last year after 85 years. But its trademark handwoven throws, scarves and baby blankets are showing up again in the Bluegrass as the company reconnects with its roots.... more »

Gifts for the graduate

When shopping for the high-school graduate, get personal. "Each kid has a different style," says Ellen Arkin of Strawtown Jewelry in West Nyack. Skip the one-gift-fits-all choice - remember the days of pen sets and... more »

New Creative Rides the Wave with National Geographic Coastal Collection

Milford, OH — New Creative Enterprises (NCE), a leading designer and manufacturer of home decor and gift items, has teamed with National Geographic to create the National Geographic Coastal Collection. The new coastal-themed collection of... more »

Best selling sailboat line expands

Dicksons, Inc. has supplied inspirational tabletop sailboats as office and desk top gifts and outstanding Father's Day and graduation gifts for five years. During this period, an expansion of the product offering from metal boats... more »

Summer Las Vegas Market Moves in Eco-Friendly Direction

(LAS VEGAS )— The Summer 2008 Las Vegas Market will be emphasizing sustainability more than ever. The home furnishings industry's most diverse eco-friendly assortments can be found in the lush, organic environment of the Market's... more »

Retail Sales Probably Increased in May: U.S. Economy Preview

Bloomberg — Sales at U.S. retailers probably rose in May as Americans started spending tax rebate checks and record gas prices inflated service-station receipts, economists said before reports this week. Purchases rose 0.5 percent following... more »

Amherst’s Salzburg Square enjoying revitalization

Despite problems in the economy, business continues to thrive at Salzburg Square in Amherst. What was once considered a dying shopping center has added several new shops in the last 18 months. But the Austrian-themed... more »

It’s becoming much easier to go green

Leah Oblinger had managed the San Francisco office of Barkley Court Reporters for two years when, in 2006, she decided to turn it green. Oblinger convinced her bosses to switch to recycled paper for the... more »

Local artisans’ work finds home in Hopwood

Nearly 30 artists and fine crafters have their work for sale in a new shop in Hopwood, but it's more than the typical consignment arrangement. It's a new venture for the Fayette County board of... more »