-
Consumer spending drops in April
WASHINGTON — U.S. consumer spending dropped 0.2% in April 2013, according to the Commerce Department.
It was the first monthly decline since May of last year and follows increases of 0.1% in March and 0.8% in February. Falling gas prices in April were part of the reason for the drop in spending, with purchases of gas, electricity and other energy goods and services down 4.4%.
In addition, increased Social Security deductions in consumer paychecks may have also contributed to the decline in spending.
-
Macy’s plans new store in Puerto Rico
CINCINNATI — Macy’s plans to open its second store in Puerto Rico in fall 2015.
The two-level, 150,000-sq.-ft. store will be located in the Plaza Del Caribe mall in Ponce. Construction is slated to begin next year and the store is expected to employ 275 associates.