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 October 20:
The Johnson Redbook Retail Sales Index was up 1.3% in the third
week of October following a 1.8% gain the prior week. Month-to-date,
October was up 1.6% compared to October of last year (relative to a
target of a 1.9% gain). Month-over-month showed a 1.7% drop (relative to
a target of a 1.4% drop). October is a four-week month on the retail
calendar, ending on October 27th.
Sales pulled back after the Columbus Day holiday sales the prior
week. The strength in Halloween related merchandise sales is coming as
we get closer to the end of the month. As noted, with Halloween being
two days later this year versus last year, some Halloween business could
be pushed out of October and into November. Meanwhile, to get an early
start to the holiday season, some stores have already stocked shelves
with Christmas merchandise along with Halloween items. Retailers said
demand for seasonal clothing continued along with cooler weather.
Activity at discount stores was focused on consumer staples, such as
food, pharmaceuticals and household goods.
** MNI Washington Bureau (202) 371-2121 **
[TOPICS: M$U$$$,MAUDS$]
