consumer trends

Retail sales up in September

Retail sales in September increased 0.4 percent over August on a seasonally adjusted basis and were up 3 percent year-over-year unadjusted, according to calculations released today by the National Retail Federation. The numbers exclude automobiles, gasoline... more »

Holiday spending to increase to $700 billion this year

The National Retail Federation announced that it expects holiday retail sales in November and December — excluding automobiles, gasoline and restaurants — to increase between 4.3 and 4.8 percent over 2017 for a total of $717.45 billion to $720.89 billion.... more »

Back-to-school and college spending to reach $82.8 billion

The back-to-school and college shopping season is in full swing, but many parents and college students say they are waiting for the best deals to complete their shopping lists, according to the annual survey released today by... more »

Casual Encounters

Today’s time-pressed hostesses and hosts are seeking casual elegance in entertaining. Rather than going formal, many are hosting wine or craft beer tastings in their kitchens. Some are inviting guests over to dine buffet style... more »

Easter spending expected to be second highest in NRF history

Easter spending is expected to total $18.2 billion this year, almost on par from a record $18.4 billion in 2017 but still the second-highest level on record, according to the annual survey released this week... more »

Manager’s Corner: Melinda Greene, Kansas City Zoo

Melinda Greene is a big fan of to-do lists to help her stay organized. Judging from the list of things she’s involved with, there is plenty of organizing to do. Greene is the retail manager... more »

2017 reader survey results

Destination location retailers have always been unique in that their merchandise selection often fits into a theme or mission of a parent organization. As online shopping has changed the landscape of retail, destination retailers have... more »

Peer Perspective: Melinda Greene, Kansas City Zoo

Melinda Greene Retail Manager, Kansas City Zoo Kansas City, Missouri During the summer Las Vegas Market, You led a symposium on how nonprofit-location retailers can cater to millennials. What was that experience like? I love... more »