The slowest economic recovery in decades has reached a point where the consumer can delay no longer. The consumer is spending with purpose, but they are spending and helped push August national results into solidly positive ground.

An 18 store sampling by ICSC showed a 6% increase for August as compared with Wall Street’s projected 4-5%. It should also be noted that Detroit auto makers posted double-digit growth for August, including Ford with a 13% increase. Several of Ford’s models had 35% growth over prior year (NY Times).

Our recruiters continue to hear of growth plans among even the small-to-mid size retail chains. Miss this wave and you may be chasing the competition for some time. Top performing talent is pursuing the growth environments. The scenery is much better when the vehicle is moving than it is when standing still.

 

Click here for August 2012 National Retail Sales Results

We're delighted to report that July has set the groundwork for an exciting transition to fall season. Preliminary reports are showing that 70%+ of nationwide retailers met and exceeded their July sales expectations, even during this transitional sales month. Nothing could be more encouraging as we approach the fall selling season.

Limited was up a whopping 12% and even GAP posted a 10% increase for July. The consumer is responding to sales promotion, giving evidence that store traffic is strong and consumers are looking for solutions. The long-challenged Hot Topic was able to deliver a 3.9% increase for July, their largest in some time.

If you assume that performing retailers are hiring then you assume correctly. Talent acquisition is continuing at a robust clip. New talent delivers new ideas and strategy essential to getting the customers' attention.

Click here for July 2012 National Retail Sales Results

National retailers continued to see positive numbers for June, though the increases were smaller across the board. Those retailers struggling in May continued the same in June. On the other hand, those doing a good job of managing assortments and sales promotion continued to see positive comparable store numbers across the board.

Nordstrom led the Department store sector, posting +8.1% growth, with Saks closing fast with a 6.0% increase. After leading their peers for several months Macys settled for a 1.2% comp store increase for June. Kohl's continues to sputter.

Monthly sales releases by Zumiez and Limited Brands showed continued dominance in specialty apparel with 8.2% and 7.0% increases, respectively. Barnes & Noble's second quarter release showed an encouraging 4.5% comp store increase. This is consistent with several other hard lines retailers and demonstrates their tenacity to succeed.

The next time you receive a call from a recruiter don't hesitate to ask them, "How many retail executives have you placed in the last 24 months?" You'll rapidly recognize those recruiters who specializes in retail. And yes, a proven retail recruiter will be a much better partner in your retail business.

Click here for June 2012 National Retail Sales Results