US DATA: wk 23-Jun Redbook: “Both department and discount stores
turned in softer performance following Father’s Day. The slower pace
reflected a normal seasonal lull as more people enjoy the outdoors
instead of shopping in stores during the summer month. With the first
day of summer having come on Wednesday, some retailers said their
seasonal inventory is slightly higher than they would prefer at this
point in the cycle. Most retailers, however, continue to expect
sell-through during the hot weather and upcoming 4th of July promotions
as more shoppers buy according to immediate needs.”

Year-over-year: Week (w/e 06/23/12 vs year-ago) 1.9%
Year-over-year: Month (June 2012 vs June 2011) 2.3%
Month-over-month: (June 2012 vs May 2012) 0.4%