CHRISTMAS SHOPPING STORMS ON THE HORIZON
Retailers throughout the country will be hit with a deluge of consumers greater than in any year since 1992 when new presidential euphoria was sweeping the country.
So predicts Anthony Liuzzo, associate professor of business and economics at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, PA. He analyzes retail trends and issues annual forecasts for the holiday shopping season.
"It's going to be a terrific Christmas season for the marketers of consumer goods. Every sector of the retail economy should experience solid sales and profit growth," says Liuzzo.
Affordable personal computers, the latest in gadgetry and electronic games should be huge hits this Christmas, says Liuzzo. Apparel sales should be quite satisfactory with a great deal of the pent-up demand, especially for women's apparel, finally being satisfied this year.
For a solid retail season to be realized, Liuzzo says, the weather needs to accommodate by changing gradually. An early blizzard or lingering summer can dampen sales.
"Shop early this year. Retailers haven't really caught on to the fact that this is going to be wonderful year for them. This indicates that they will not be prepared for the torrent of customers. As retailers run low on inventory, they will increase prices. My advice is to get in while the getting is good."
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Editors: Call Liuzzo at 717-675-4170 (home). His office number is 717-831-4709. He works well with reporters and returns calls quickly.
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