Mall Group Predicts Holiday Spending Up 3 Percent - 09/17/11 04:02 AM
  The Council of Shopping Centers released a statement yesterday that they predict holiday spending to increase 3 percent over last year.  This trade group which represents shopping malls said Friday that 'November-December spending should top $250 billion, the highest since the 2007' peak.  This prediction does not include sales at grocery stores, restaurants or gas stations but sales should certainly improve with these businesses also.
  A 3% increase in spending will be major news for the remaining retailers because after all the store closings of the past 2 years they should each grab a larger portion.  If the 3% increase materializes some stores could see 5 to 7% year over year growth.  This … (3 comments)