Ball State University retail analyst James Lowry, who has been studying Christmas shopping trends for nearly four decades, is available to discuss the latest holiday shopping statistics.
In assessing a recent surge in holiday shopping, Lowry says: "Things aren't as bad as consumers were thinking just a few months ago," said James Lowry, who has been tracking retail sales for nearly four decades. "It looks like the economy is doing better, a war with Iraq doesn't seem as imminent and things on Wall Street are more positive."
He said low interest rates, tax cuts and extra cash from a flurry of home mortgage refinancing activity also have strengthened consumer spending.
"Retailers have spent a great deal of time and money on advertising, which then has driven sales. Retailers don't want to be stuck with lots of merchandise after the shopping season ends. They want the shelves cleared."
James Lowry, a marketing professor, received his B.S, M.B.A., and Ph.D. (1966) degrees from The Ohio State University. He joined the Ball State faculty in 1966. He has published several books including "Business in Today's World," "Retail Management," "Leased Departments in Discount Merchandising," "Principles of Modern Marketing," and "Marketing Fundamentals."
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