U.S. retailers, bothered by a number of business-related concerns, reportedly are expecting the smallest gain in holiday sales since 2002.

The National Retail Federation, a Washington-based trade group, predicted Thursday a 4 percent increase in sales to $474.5 billion in November and December, less than last year’s 4.6 percent increase and the 10-year average of 4.8 percent.

Concerns centered around the strength of consumer spending amid a credit crunch, housing slump and uncertain jobs picture, the Wall Street Journal reported.
// Copyright 2007 by United Press International


Publication date: 21 September 2007   

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