Chain Store Sales Up Over Last Year

New York City, Retail chain store sales increased by 1.8% for the week ended Feb. 19 vs. the same week from 2004, according to to the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)-UBS Weekly Chain Store Sales Index. On a week-over-week basis, retail sales slowed 0.1% in the week ended Feb. 19.

Redbook Research reports a more robust growth figure for that week. The independent research company says U.S. chain store sales increased by 2.9% year-over-year for the week ended Feb. 19, according to Reuters. Redbook further reported that February sales are up 0.7% to date when compared with January.

“Sales in the week were influenced by spring promotions, Valentine’s Day and the holiday weekend,” Redbook Research said in a statement. “Like other secular celebrations, Valentine’s Day continues to grow in importance.”