There is much to celebrate as we reflect upon December nationwide retailer results. Because of the consistent, broad-based strength of comparable store sales industry-wide during 2013 we never supported the naysayer fears as we approached the Christmas selling season. Our confidence has been realized, with sales results showing solid growth for December.

Macy's posted solid +4.3% gains for the November-December period, with many references to a strong sales performance. Michael’s crafted a +7.9% comp store performance and Finish Line footwear finished the race with +7.1% growth.  Pier 1 led the home store group with a +6.9% showing.

Expect much candidate activity during 2014. With the growth strategies of many retailers will come increased competition for experienced talent to lead execution. If you haven’t already, I would encourage you to connect with your partner at Retail Search Group.
 
Click here for December 2013 National Retail Sales Results

Some 53% of consumers said they started holiday shopping before Thanksgiving, in part due to the lateness of the holiday this year says Bill Thorne, senior VP-communications and public affairs at the NRF. That, and the fact that more retailers opened on Thanksgiving itself, helped explain why some retailers said Black Friday traffic was lighter than usual. Combine store results with a 19% increase in Cyber Monday sales and we at Retail Search Group believe this Christmas season is on track for success.

Macy's reported +3.5% comparable store growth, in good company with Williams-Sonoma, who reported +8.2% growth. Pier 1 capitalized on the home store trend, posting a +3.5% increase.

Because of the late Thanksgiving calendar for 2013 we believe it makes the most sense to combine both November and December results to get a true picture of the 2013 holiday season.

Hiring decisions continue to come forward as retailers prepare for 2014 transition. We encourage both candidates and retailers to continue their efforts to join talent with opportunity. 2014 glistens as a significant growth opportunity for those retailers ready to pursue it.

Click here for November 2013 National Retail Sales Results

October sales results show continued growth and strength of consumer spending. Combined with last week's jobs growth numbers, we have every reason to believe that Holiday 2013 will be one of the best in some time.

Specialty retailers GAP and Limited Brands reported excellent results, posting +4.0% and +8.0%, respectively. The pent-up demand for home improvement is busting-out, with Home Depot posting +10.7% and Lowes +9.6% comparable stores increases. CarMax pushed sales +16.0% for the quarter.

We are seeing expansion across nearly every segment of the retail landscape. Our team continues to be busy bringing forward top talent for these growth-oriented retailers. For many, 2014 financial planning has been completed and the initial stages of first quarter execution are underway.

Click here for October 2013 National Retail Sales Results