Retailers within every sector reported mixed results. Wal-Mart's 1.2% increase across its concepts dropped the overall picture for other chains dramatically, as they would have posted a 4% rise without the weak performance by the world's largest retailer.
Department stores performed the best as a whole in widely reported sectors, rising 3.8%. Kohl's had the highest gain, at 7.1%, followed by Nordstrom and Saks Inc., which each jumped 4.7%. Dillards' posted a 1.1% drop.
Apparel was hit the hardest during the month, inching up 0.6%. Gap Inc. had the biggest slide, falling 6%, and Deb Shops reported a 4.9% plunge. For the second month in a row, Ann Taylor and American Eagle Outfitters were the leaders of the category, shooting up 12.5% and 11%, respectively.
The 1.1% increase by Wal-Mart's chains dictated discount stores' 2% increase as a whole. However, Target had a strong month, with same-store sales climbing 4.8%, and TJX Cos.'s stores rose 4%.
Wholesale clubs were held back by BJ's 0.1% drop and a 1.3% crawl at Wal-Mart's Sam's Clubs. Costco, however, posted a 6% increase.
For the currently month, the International Council of Shopping Centers' research team is predicting a 3% to 3.5% gain, as comparisons to last year's 3.6% rise won't be as difficult.
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