Better Apparel Retailers Report Strong Early Holiday Sales

San Francisco, CA, December 08, 2006 --(PR.com)-- Better apparel sales showed steady growth in the week following Thanksgiving, according to a private survey of retailers conducted by Blacks Retail Analysis (www.BlacksRetailAnalysis.com).

For the week of Nov. 27 through Dec. 3, men’s wear sales grew 8.7% over last year.

“The demand for better merchandise started in early fall and has moved into the holiday season,” said Blacks Senior Consultant Steve Pruitt.

Sales of women’s wear increased by an average of 6.6% over the same period, yet individual results varied significantly, with some retailers reporting double-digit losses.

“Women’s trends have not been consistent regionally and this is reflected in the spotty results,” Pruitt said.

For retailers to do well this season, it’s important to keep positive momentum as we head closer to Christmas, Pruitt added.

Blacks recommends that retailers assign teams to assort the sales floor and keep merchandise looking fresh. Merchants should also try to keep full size runs on the floor.

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