The results of two major drug-store chains greatly impacted the numbers. Without Walgreens' 9.7% jump and Rite Aide's 4.1% lift, the increase for the collected retailers surveyed would have come in at 3%.
On the other hand, Wal-Mart's 1.1% increase held back the industry as a whole, which would have posted a 4.6% gain had it not been for the largest retailer in the world's results.
In the discount sector, dollar stores fared the best, with Family Dollar jumping 7.5% and Dollar General up 4.6%. Target Corp. came in at 3.1%, below its average monthly increase this year of 5%.
Department stores, up 3.8%, slightly edged their 3.7% average this year. Kohl's led the way with a 5.9% upturn, while Federated Department Stores posted a 3.3% increase. Dillards, down 3%, reported its second month in a row falling same-store sales.
Apparel was a mixed bag, collectively gaining 1.3%. Deb Shops plunged 9.6%, and Gap Inc.'s chains dropped 4%. Strong performers in the sector were Limited Brands and American Eagle Outfitters, both with 7% boosts.
Finally, Costco Wholesale once again dominated the wholesale club sector, with a 7%, rise. BJ's Wholesale rose 1.9%, and Wal-Mart's Sam's Clubs inched up 1.3%.
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