The Big Picture Overall retail sales continue to be brisk, despite rising inflation. U.S. sales increased by 1.7% in October, the biggest gain since March, when stimulus checks boosted many
Oct. ’21 Retail Report: All Signs Point To Profit This Holiday Season
The Big Picture Although the near-term outlook remains positive, the U.S. Federal Reserve says that economic growth has slowed recently, due to higher prices, supply chain issues, and a worker
Special Report: Riding the Demand Wave
Special Report: Riding the Demand Wave Post-pandemic planning for holiday & beyond As we speed into what should be a blockbuster holiday season and healthy first quarter of 2022, one
Why Working with a Blacks’ Analyst is Different
More than just a merchandising plan … Strategy – Your Blacks’ analyst prepares you to go to market by analyzing your classifications and developing seasonal and monthly budgets for delivering
September ’21 Retail Report: Merchants Face Strong Demand Amid Shortages
The Big Picture While continuing Covid cases have given the stock market some pause, U.S. consumers continue to spend at a steady clip. Overall retail sales beat expectations in August,
August ’21 Retail Report: Spring ’22 Planning & Navigating Uncertainty
The Big Picture We continue to get a confusing mix of economic numbers heading into fall. Overall July retail sales slipped 1.1%, more than expected, but not too surprising given
July ’21 Retail Report: Summer Sales Remain Steady
The Big Picture Despite being in the normally slow summer month, both retail sales and the U.S. economy are showing signs of recovery. Overall retail sales increased by 0.6% in
Special Report: Cycle Shift
Special Report: Cycle Shift Pent-up demand has kept registers ringing for longer than normal. Here’s how to plan for the months ahead. In recent decades retail sales have comfortably flowed
June ’21 Retail Report: Apparel Sales Show No Sign Yet of Slowdown
The Big Picture After two months of gains, consumers slowed their spending in May. Overall retail sales were down 1.3% as shoppers switched from goods to services, such as travel
Why Do I Need Professional Inventory Planning?
Retailers sometimes ask us about the value of professional inventory planning. We’re biased, of course, but we consider it essential! Here’s why: –Without a merchandising process/plan, you will never actualize