The two organizations will host a joint event, “Converge,” in September 2025.
July Retail Sales Up, Growth Slows
Economists are wary of how retail will fare in August as the $600 unemployment boost expires and coronavirus cases rise.
New York—U.S. retail sales were on the rise in July as consumer spending rebounds, but growth was slower than previous months.
Retail sales were up 1.2 percent month-over-month in July to $536 billion, according to data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, climbing 2.7 percent year-over-year.
The monthly increase was slightly lower than the 2 percent jump economists had expected.
In June, sales were up 8.4 percent month-over-month, as per revised numbers, following an 18 percent jump in May.
In a press release about the results, National Retail Federation CEO Matthew Shay said the results were “another positive step in the right direction as our economy continues to slowly reopen.”
The NRF also calculates monthly retail sales, narrowing in on core retail and excluding auto sales, gas stations, and restaurants.
Its calculations show July sales were up 1 percent seasonally adjusted from June and up 10 percent unadjusted year-over-year.
Looking at the commerce department’s data by category, electronics and appliance stores saw the strongest sales gains in July, up 22.9 percent month-over-month, though sales were down 2.8 percent year-over-year.
The rise in working and learning from home sent computer sales higher while home improvement projects and higher home sales bolstered appliance sales.
Shay credited the overall increase to the “continued resilience” of shoppers and the demonstration by retailers that stores can be operated safely when following guidelines.
Shay also gave credit to the governmental actions taken to support the economy and encouraged elected officials to “enact policies that support consumers and keep the economy open.”
NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz highlighted the threat uncertainty poses to economic recovery.
“Retail sales are starting the third quarter on a solid footing considering the nosedive we saw this spring, but we have to remember that there’s uncertainty about economic policy and that the resurgence of the virus is putting pressure on the fledgling recovery,” he said.
Shoppers are spending money, but they are still anxious about their wealth and financial wellbeing, he added.
Looking to the second half of the year, forecasting can be difficult as what the economy does depends on “what the coronavirus allows us to do.”
Economists are wary of what August holds following the expiration of the $600 federal unemployment benefit. A surge in coronavirus cases has also led to layoffs and a delay in returning to work.
“Even with the unemployment rate above 10 percent, one-time stimulus payments for many households
The drying up of these payments would reduce household income by $70 billion in August, he said.
Faucher noted President Trump looked to restore some of the payments via an executive order, but it is unclear when the payments would be sent out and how many people they would reach.
“Passage of a new economic stimulus program will be vital to ensuring a strong economic recovery in the U.S.,” he added.
Discussions about a fifth coronavirus relief package have been ongoing, but an agreement between Democrats and Republicans has not yet been reached.
Congress is in recess, as it normally is in August, but could be recalled if a deal is reached.
The Latest
Big changes appear to be on the horizon for the diamond miner and its parent company, Anglo American.
Padis succeeds Lisa Bridge, marking the first time the organization has had two women board presidents in a row.
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
Jesse Cole, founder of Fans First Entertainment, shared the “five Es” of building a fan base during his AGS Conclave keynote.
The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar "John Mayer" was celebrated at a star-studded party in LA last week.
The announcement came as the company reported a 23 percent drop in production in Q1.
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
The three-time Pro Bowler continues to partner with the retailer, donating to a Detroit nonprofit and giving watches to fans.
A double-digit drop in the number of in-store crimes was offset by a jump in off-premises attacks, JSA’s 2023 crime report shows.
Inspired by the Roman goddess of love, the designer looked to the sea for her new collection.
The luxury titan posted declining sales, weighed down by Gucci’s poor performance.
The selected nine organizations have outlined their plans for the funds.
The mining company’s Diavik Diamond Mine lost four employees in a plane crash in January.
The crown introduced a dozen timepieces in Geneva, including a heavy metal version of its deep-sea divers’ watch.
Emmanuel Raheb recommends digging into demographic data, customizing your store’s communications, and retargeting ahead of May 12.
Located in the town of Queensbury, it features a dedicated bridal section and a Gabriel & Co. store-in-store.
A 203-carat diamond from the alluvial mine in Angola achieved the highest price.
Ruser was known for his figural jewelry with freshwater pearls and for his celebrity clientele.
The “Rebel Heart” campaign embodies rebellion, romance, and sensuality, the brand said.
Editor-in-Chief Michelle Graff shares the standout moments from the education sessions she attended in Austin last week.
The overhaul includes a new logo and enhanced digital marketplace.
The money will go toward supporting ongoing research and aftercare programs for childhood cancer survivors.
A new addition to the “Heirloom” collection, this one-of-a-kind piece features 32 custom-cut gemstones.
Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.
The move will allow the manufacturing company to offer a more “diverse and comprehensive” range of products.
From now through mid-May, GIA will be offering the reports at a 50 percent discount.