Survey: Father’s Day Gives Boost to Weekly Sales

Chicago ShopperTrak RCT Corp.'s National Retail Sales Estimate Tuesday reported that retail sales for the week ending June 14 increased a healthy 6.1% compared to the same period last year as consumers took advantage of Father’s Day sales promotions to purchase gifts and seasonal summer merchandise.

Sales for the week ending June 14 vs. the previous week ending June 7 rose 7.2%.

“Last week’s sales performance highlights what retailers have seen for several months—consumers are continuing to spend at a steady pace despite the myriad economic pressures they’re feeling,” said Bill Martin, co-founder of ShopperTrak. “While we fully expect GAFO retail sales to return to slower, more seasonal levels in late June, retailers should see a spike again in early July as consumers prepare for the July 4th weekend.”

Additionally, ShopperTrak reported year-over-year sales have increased 17 out of a possible 24 weeks so far in 2008.