November 21

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Retail Associations Expects Strong Holiday Sales

November 21

Norfolk, VA - Following two successful sessions, the Retail Alliance is finalizing plans for the 2006 Holiday Sales Watch, which will once again provide a weekly snapshot of local retail activity during the holiday shopping season. Beginning with “Black Friday,” the traditional start to the holiday shopping season, the Retail Alliance will conduct weekly telephone surveys of participating retailers to gather general information about sales increases, hot-selling items and shopper’s attitudes. Most of these merchants are small, independent retailers offering clothing, accessories, jewelry, home furnishings and miscellaneous gifts. Results will be provided to local media outlets about the previous weekend’s sales activity.

"Our Holiday Sales Watch gives solid economic data on how our local retailers contribute to the economy,” explained C. Donald Porter, president/CEO of the Retail Alliance®. “As an advocate for the retail industry, we believe it’s vital for us to raise the profile of retail among our local elected officials and business leaders, and the Holiday Sales Watch has proven to be an excellent means to do this."

Retail industry experts continue to be optimistic in their predictions for the 2006 holiday shopping season. On a national level, the National Retail Federation has forecast that holiday sales will increase 5 percent over last year’s total. Local holiday sales are expected to follow suit.

"With moderating gas prices and consumer confidence on the rise, we believe the Hampton Roads economy remains strong," Porter said. “We know our local retailers will offer an outstanding selection of merchandise and many exciting promotions to draw shoppers into their stores, and we look forward to seeing strong sales throughout the next few weeks."

Founded in Norfolk in 1903, Retail Alliance is the merchants association for the Hampton Roads region. The association serves its members with benefits that include discount advertising, retail lobbying, and education and training. The organization is a sales agent for Equifax credit reports and products, Hire Vu employee background screening and Certegy check guarantee.

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