Retail Search Group

At the start of the holiday season both NRF and ICSC issued predictions that retailers could expect comparable store sales in the 3.5% range for Holiday 2010. November results came in much higher than forecast, climbing to 5.8%, significantly ahead of expectations.

Some don’t believe the sales were the result of deep discounts or other one-time strategies. These comparable sales gains are the result of carefully planned and executed retail strategies across both department and specialty store segments. Solid retailing is back to stay! Consumers are seeking good value and retailers executed well-planned strategies to attract and win the customer.

Best Buy had a line of tents the day before black Friday….the Minneapolis retailer attracted customers with a combination of value and assortment. Best Buy has already distanced the competition and won the gold medal for technology retailing this season. Department stores like Nordstrom, Macys and Neiman Marcus lit up the sky with increases from 5-6%. Several specialty retailers reported double-digit growth (Abercrombie 22%, Limited 10%).

Exceptions? Yes, there are a few retailers who haven’t given their customers assortments to be excited about. Hot Topic -2.1%, and reported laying-off 80 people at their headquarters and announced store closings. In this retail trend it’s also surprising that Rite Aid -1.3% continues to sputter.

Recruiting
Everyone wants to talk to a recruiter but no one wants to be seen talking to one. Our team of experienced professionals can work with you on a confidential basis and provide valuable insight as you consider next moves. Most retail company budgets are completed for fiscal 2011. If January is a target hiring month then we should begin dialogue at once.

Tired of the “parade of candidates” that aren’t right? Have you thought about having a professional retail search organization bring forward your competition’s best talent so you can interview them? Perhaps it’s time to develop a relationship with the Retail Search Group team.

Click here for November National Retail Sales Results.