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SHOPPING OUTLOOK

The July Fourth holiday week (July 1 to 7) is shaping up to be one of the best holiday weeks of the summer with 70% of the nation trending similar to or warmer than last year. Also, the week prior to the holiday this year promises to be much drier in the Mid-Atlantic so consumers can focus more on having outdoor fun instead of flood cleanup.

Summer categories such as beverages, swim toys and barbeque supplies will see strong demand. The only negative factors will be high gasoline prices and some cannibalization of sales in May and June which could be a drag on what would otherwise be a great week for comp sales.

People along the Gulf Coast states may also be keeping a watchful eye to the Gulf of Mexico as there is a chance for a tropical system in the early July time frame. Highest risk areas would be the South Texas coast and along the northern Gulf Coast from the Florida panhandle to Mississippi.

The following forecasts from Weather Trends International are based on a statistical methodology using 110 years of weather records. Weather Trends forecasts are created 11 months in advance and are intended to identify weather trends. The forecast accuracy averages 75% or better by week and by market. For more information, contact Jack Grum (610) 807-3586 or visit www.wxtrends.com.