The Big Picture In the last week of what turned out to be another roller-coaster year, we can help but celebrate the robust holiday season we’ve just had. Overall retail
Nov. ’21 Retail Report: Planning a Soft Landing into Spring
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
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
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
May Retail Report: Now Is the Time to Build Back Cash
The Big Picture After a 10.7% surge in March, overall retail sales flattened in April, according to Commerce Department data. Analysts said the stagnation was not surprising given that the