Coldest March in 17 years shifts shopping patterns
Demand for shorts and sandals fell sharply in the last week of March, compared to the same month last year, as colder-than-average days had consumers putting off warm-weather purchases. The cold weather leading into Easter proved positive for some retail…
Consumers are expected to increase spending
After two months of negative factors weighing against consumers, spending growth seen this year is expected to pick up. Reduced debt, rising employment and declining energy costs also are seen as stimulants. "Headwinds in February were temporary. They are going…
Tips for hiring great sales associates
Smart and successful retail hiring starts with finding candidates who genuinely like and want to know about other people, says retail legend and former Macy's West CEO Bob Mettler. He explains with examples, including research into Asian beauty retail operations…
Online sales tax sees bipartisan support in Senate
The Senate has approved a nonbinding budget resolution with an amendment allowing states to require online retailers to collect sales tax. The amendment, which echoes the Marketplace Fairness Act, gained support from both parties. Full Story.
Why the Marketplace Fairness Act isn’t a tax increase
Conservatives who oppose the Marketplace Fairness Act as a tax increase likely don't understand the bill, which would merely give states the right to require online retailers to collect sales tax from in-state buyers who are already required to pay…
Online shoppers drop valuable clues as they go
Fraudsters trying to blend in with the online shopping crowd actually leave all sorts of small but telling clues, according to companies that analyze shoppers' online behavior. For example, people who shop between midnight and 1 a.m., type their last…
California police bust cross-country retail theft ring
Police in Torrance, Calif., arrested four Chicago residents who admitted to being part of an organized retail theft ring that stole at least $3 million in electronics and other goods in the past year. The group is suspected of thefts…