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 Mar. 19:
The Johnson Redbook Retail Sales Index was up 2.4% in the third
week of March following a 2.0% gain the prior week. Month-to-date, March
is up 2.2% compared to March of last year (relative to a target of a
2.5% gain). Month-over-month showed a 0.4% drop compared to February
(relative to a flat target). March is a five-week month on the retail
calendar, ending on April 2nd.
A number of retailers reported increased shopping activity over the
week due to more moderate temperatures in many parts of the country as
well as the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Sales of spring apparel,
especially swimwear, have been active as a lot of people are getting
ready for spring break and vacations in sunny destinations. Sales of
lawn and garden goods did well. As noted earlier, Easter falls three
weeks later than last year. Most retailers prefer a later Easter holiday
since temperatures are more likely to be spring-like, making for a
smooth transition into the core of the spring season.
** Market News International Washington Bureau: 202-371-2121 **
[TOPICS: M$U$$$,MAUDS$]
