Highlights
Redbook is reporting less strength than ICSC-Goldman. Redbook's same-store sales tally shows a plus 2.7 percent year-on-year rate for the July 24 week, slightly below the four-week average of 2.9 percent. The 2.7 percent pace is the same as the prior week. Month-to-date, July was up 2.8 percent compared to July of last year. However, the month-over-month showed a 0.7 percent drop compared to June.

There was a continuation of the seasonal demand that has been the main driver throughout the month. Business appeared to be firm and steady at discount stores, with emphasis on seasonal hard goods and core consumer goods such as food and household supplies. Hot temperatures brought customers into the stores. Others reported sluggish business and unmotivated consumers suggesting little more than the usual mid-July doldrums.