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 April 10:
The Johnson Redbook Retail Sales Index was up 3.3% in the first
week of April following a 5.2% gain in the prior week. Month-to-date,
April was up 3.3% compared to April of last year (relative to a revised
target of a 2.8% gain). Month-over-month showed a 1.3% drop compared to
March (relative to a targeted 1.9% drop). April is a four-week month on
the retail calendar ending on May 1st.
Sales reflected the transition to the negative side of the Easter
shift. Many stores were closed on Easter Sunday resulting in a shorter
shopping week compared to last year’s pre Easter week. The first week of
April was satisfactory and most retailers were running at or somewhat
better than plan by the end of the period. The unfavorable comparison
with the year ago Easter week turned out to be less severe than many had
expected. Stores also reported increased activity in home related goods
from furniture, tools and home furnishings as buyers geared up for
spring home improvement programs.
** Market News International Washington Bureau: 202-371-2121 **
[TOPICS: M$U$$$,MAUDS$]
