Highlights
Chain stores sales proved strong in January boosted by gift card redemption as well as warm weather that increased traffic and helped to move spring merchandise. Comparisons were also helped by unusually cold weather in January 2005.

A quick look at a little more than 100 chains, as compiled by this writer, shows a same-store comparison gain of 4.3% -- arguably the best level in more than a year. Note that holiday clearances along with strong inventory management kept stocks of winter goods down and springs goods up, proving to be a big plus given the warm weather.

January sales are a fraction of December sales, which proved soft. Nevertheless, warm weather, stable consumer fuel bills, and perhaps an improving jobs market may raise talk of healthier-than-expected consumer spending. Today's data along with yesterday's solid rise in vehicle sales point to strong retail trade data at mid-month.

2006 Release Schedule

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