Consumers say they're worried about the economy, but retail sales are strong

Feb 17, 2023
Data released this week shows there’s a disconnect between what people say and what they do.
"Affordable luxuries" — like an afternoon treat from Starbucks — "can actually increase in sales because of the stressful moments that people have in their lives," said Yale's Ravi Dhar.
Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images

Valentine's Day chocolate sales were strong ... but it'd be helpful if you shopped earlier

Feb 17, 2023
"It's fun but it's difficult to know how much to make when everyone comes in on the same day," said Kristin Thalheimer Bingham, co-owner of Dean's Sweets in Portland, Maine.
Of all the holidays, Valentine's Day is the biggest chocolate-seller for Dean's Sweets.
Courtesy Melissa Mullen Photography

What recession fears? Consumers shopped up a storm in January

Feb 15, 2023
We spent despite being whipsawed by economic news. Raises and slowing inflation helped.
Because of a surplus of inventory, consumers can continue to expect markdowns from retailers.
Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images

The retail sector sees signs of a cautious consumer

Feb 13, 2023
Most executives predict that consumers will continue to be more selective this year.
Consumers could adopt more cautious habits as they feel more economic stress, some analysts say.
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For this toy store, it's a race to restock the shelves

Jan 18, 2023
The owner of a North Carolina toy shop talks about the state of her business after the holiday retail season.
"Our inventory right now is being replenished from the busy selling season," said Irene Kesselman. "It will take me probably two to four months to fill the store again."
Vincenzo Pinto/AFP via Getty Images

Declining December retail sales hit especially hard for small businesses

Jan 18, 2023
How did this holiday season go? A few entrepreneurs weigh in.
The latest retail sales data shows a larger-than-expected decrease in purchases in December. For small businesses, those declines hit harder.
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Retail sales rose a smidgen in August, but some see warning signs

Sep 15, 2022
Sales rose 0.3% last month, but there are signs some consumers are pulling back on big-ticket items, excluding cars.
In August, retail sales rose by 0.3%. Some of that was likely due to consumers stocking up on back-to-school items.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

For public good, not for profit.

For every unsold good, there's a liquidator waiting

Aug 24, 2022
Big-box retailers are dumping excess inventory because of lower sales. Liquidators, who resell that merchandise, are thriving.
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What Walmart and Home Depot's rising sales say about consumer sentiment

Aug 16, 2022
Walmart customers are thinking about rising prices. Home Depot customers are thinking about rising interest rates.
A look at Home Depot's sales indicates that people are opting to improve their existing homes rather than buy a new place.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Spending is up, but consumer confidence isn't

Jul 15, 2022
Retail sales rose in June, yet inflation is still a factor in how and where people are willing to spend.
While electronic and appliance sales saw the biggest drop in the last year, spending at bars and restaurants remain strong.
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