Against the backdrop of a strong consumer economy and favorable trends in weather throughout much of the country, Planalytics and the National Retail Federation reiterated their confidence mid-single-digit growth for Holiday shopping this year. The NRF’s adjusted retails sales index showed Nov. up 6%, which increased its confidence that it the industry is on track for a 3.6% to 4.0% increase for the season. Planalytics, a weather consultancy, also said it still expected a 3-4% growth rate.

Low unemployment, increasing wages and improving consumer confidence are more than offsetting a recent rise in gasoline prices. The season kicked off well with ... Log in to view full article.