Week-Over-Week NRSE Sales Slip 4.8 Percent

CHICAGO, IL October 28, 2009 - ShopperTrak's National Sales Estimate (NRSE) today reported that year-over-year GAFO retail sales declined 4.0 percent for the week ending October 24 while sales fell 4.8 percent versus the previous week ending October 17.

As anticipated, GAFO retail sales declined last week as Columbus Day sales and promotions ended and retailers experience the annual lull leading up to Halloween.  Additionally, temperatures improved throughout the North as compared to earlier in the month when the weather was unseasonably cool - slowing sales of seasonal apparel and other merchandise. 

"Retailers should see a slight sales and traffic boost this week due to consumers responding to some last minute Halloween promotions," said Bill Martin, co founder of ShopperTrak.  "Following Halloween, we expect to see a bit of a spending pause leading up to Black Friday - the annual start of the holiday shopping season."

Developed by ShopperTrak, the NRSE provides a nationwide benchmark of retail sales.  It is derived from the U.S. Commerce Department's GAFO (general merchandise, apparel, furniture, sporting goods, electronics, hobby, books and other related store sales) statistics, as well as ShopperTrak's proprietary industry intelligence on shopper movement and sales statistics.  This gices retailers, investors and policy makers the most accurate and timely information on consumer trends available today.