Wholesale clubs were the best-performing sector in the industry, posting a 6.2% gain. Costco shot up 9%, followed by Sam's Club's 3.5% gain. BJ's Wholesale inched up 0.9%.
Department stores, with a 3,6% increase, came in below their monthly average gain of 3.6%. High-end chain Nordstrom soared up 9%, while Federated Department Stores came in with a 4.4% rise. Struggling Dillards posted a 5% drop.
Apparel chains were hit the hardest, falling 0.9% as a group. Gap Inc. plummeted 8%, Deb Shops sank 7.5% and Cato Corp. dropped 6%. Strong gains were posted by American Eagle Outfitters, rising 13%, and Limited Brands, up 4%.
In the discount sector, up 2.3% as a whole, Dollar General's 7.1% push came in front, followed by TJX Cos.' 6% increase. Target reported a 6% gain, while Wal-Mart inched up 1.3%.
ICSC's research team is predicting a 2.5% to 3% gain in January, as consumers spend their holiday gift cards.
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