Data & Analytics

One of the first holiday quarter sales forecasts is out of the gate.   Global retail consulting firm Kantar Retail predicts that U.S. retail sales will grow 3.7% in the fourth quarter of this year. The forecast represents an improvement relative to weak growth of only 2.9% in the year ago period. But it is underwhelming compared to average growth prior to the recession of 5.0%, according to Kantar.   

Two experienced retail executives have joined the management team of the parent company of such brands as Men's Wearhouse and Jos.A. Bank.   

The National Retail Federation on Wednesday has lowered its annual retail sales forecast, citing government data revisions.   Retail sales for 2017 are now expected to increase between 3.2% and 3.8%, down from the 3.7% - 4.2% growth the NRF predicted earlier this year. The revision comes after the Census Bureau lowered its retail sales figures, and the Bureau of Economic Analysis downgraded its personal income and consumption figures.   

It didn't take long for cities across North America to throw their hat in the ring when Amazon announced it had initiated a search for a city in which to build a second headquarters.    In seeking proposals, Amazon laid out some very definite criteria, including population requirements (one million or more). CNBC examined the criteria and suggested that five cities are worthy of a close look by Amazon: New York, Atlanta, Chicago, San Francisco and Boston.   

99 Cents Only Stores reduced its loss in the second quarter amid increased operational efficiencies and surging sales.   The retailer reported a net loss of $33.6 million for the quarter ended July 28, compared to net loss of $35.1 million in the year-ago period. Net sales increased 8.9% to $540.5 million.  

The search is on for Amazon.    The e-commerce giant is currently evaluating where it will open its second company headquarters in North America. The new office, referred to as "HQ2," will be a complete headquarters — not a satellite office. It also could have a similar layout to Amazon's Seattle campus, which employs 40,000 people, and encompasses 8.1 million sq. ft. with 33 buildings, including 24 restaurants.  

CVS Pharmacy is rolling out a convenient way for consumers on the go to easily buy necessities.    The drugstore chain on Thursday introduced automated vending machines that will be located in travel hubs and other places and contain such items as over-the-counter health products, better-for-you snacks and popular personal care products. The machines will also be used to showcase products from the company’s exclusive store brands while meeting customers at well-trafficked areas.  

Barnes & Noble reduced its loss in its first quarter due to cost savings even as its sales continued to fall.   The company reported a net loss of $10.8 million for the quarter ended July 29, or 15 cents per share, compared to a loss of $14.4 million, or cents per share, for the year-ago period. Analysts had expected a loss of 12 cents a share.