US DATA: Redbook for Feb 12 wk: “Retailers said the pace of sales
was uneven, slowing down in the middle of the week but increasing and
finishing up more firmly into the weekend. Sales during the week were
driven by a combination of factors, including Valentine’s Day promotions
(candy, flowers, fashion accessories, cosmetics and jewelry) and
continuing clearance of winter apparel. Valentine’s Day is one day later
than last year, pushing related sales into the subsequent fiscal week
and prolonging related purchases according to some retailers.”
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Year-over-year: Week (w/e 02/12/11 vs year-ago) 2.2%
Year-over-year: Month (February 2011 vs February 2010) 2.4%
Month-over-month: (February 2011 vs January 2011) 1.4%