Business Analytics

After some rough going due to the partial government shutdown and stock market fluctuations, consumers are feeling more positive about the economy — at least most of them are.

All brands are not created equal. Just ask the parent company of Ann Taylor, Loft, Lane Bryant and other apparel nameplates.

Ulta Beauty on Thursday reported results for its fourth quarter that beat the Street amid a surge in store traffic and online sales.

The parent company of Men’s Warehouse and Jos. A. Bank reported mixed fourth quarter results and a disappointing Q1 outlook amid “softness” in the “macro-environment.”

Costco Wholesale Corp. reported a sharp increase in same-store sales for the holiday quarter.

Walmart is rewarding its employees on the heels of the chain’s strong fourth quarter performance.

Barnes & Noble Inc. swung to a profit in the third quarter amid higher-than-expected comp sales, but the bookseller is wary about the remainder of the year.

Dollar Tree’s numbers this quarter cover a 13-week period compared to 14 weeks in the prior year.

BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings beat Wall Street estimates with its fourth quarter earnings performance.

The Home Depot is applying a high-tech solution to its need for more employees.