Scholarship applications are being accepted now, and the window for the grant will open in May.
NRF Raises Expectations for Retail This Year, Slightly
The National Retail Federation upgraded its forecast for retail sales growth from 3.1 percent to 3.4 percent.
Washington--The National Retail Federation announced Tuesday that retail sales for 2016 now are expected to grow 3.4 percent over last year, an improvement from the 3.1 percent sales growth forecast earlier in the year.
Online and other non-store sales, which are included in the overall figure, are predicted to increase 7 to 10 percent over 2015, up from the earlier forecast of 6 to 9 percent.
NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said in a news release that the improved housing marketing, job growth, higher wages and other factors have helped to boost consumer spending through the first half of the year and they expect that to continue.
“Challenges remain, with some greater than others depending on the retail category, but consumer confidence remains high and we believe that retail customers will continue the positive trends we have seen in the first two quarters of the year,” he said.
Excluding automobiles, gas and restaurants, January-June retail sales were up nearly 4 percent year-over-year and the NRF expects the United States’ gross domestic product to grow between 1.9 and 2.4 percent.
“There are many factors that could prove to be hurdles but our overall outlook is optimistic,” NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said in the same release. “Uncertainty surrounding the presidential election could make consumers more cautious, and the combination of a rising dollar and global slowdown have impacted exports, but other factors like favorable weather patterns that will help move winter merchandise support our outlook.”
The NRF said it is watching economic developments closely and, if needed, will update its annual forecast when it makes it predictions for the holiday season in October.
The Latest
She is remembered by loved ones as a “guiding force” behind the store and an active presence in her community.
The emerald earrings reference objects from designer Melinda Zeman’s childhood.
For over 30 years, JA has advocated for the industry, fought against harmful legislation and backed measures that help jewelry businesses.
The report shows that couples are searching for vintage and antique rings, gold jewelry, pearls, and colorful pieces.
He’s remembered as a “font of passion,” leaving behind a legacy of dedication to his craft and community.
The first one will take place next month during the Jewelers of Louisiana’s and Mississippi Jewelers Association’s conventions.
Ho Brothers offers scalable solutions for the future of custom jewelry.
The redesigned boutique features interactive displays and a workshop space for hands-on learning about watchmaking.
There is a willingness to comply with new government-mandated regulations, with an insistence that they should be practical and realistic.
A combination of factors is driving growth in the industry despite the precipitous drop in prices across the board.
The zone’s modernization will enhance and increase India’s jewelry manufacturing capabilities while aiding small and mid-sized businesses.
By the end of this year, SRK’s diamond manufacturing complexes will achieve net zero emissions, one of an impressive array of achievements.
The company plans to invest $25 million in marketing initiatives to boost awareness around its namesake and licensed brands.
The former WJA executive director is MFM’s new managing director.
DDG encourages retailers to educate customers on the positive impact of purchasing natural diamonds.
Highlighting the most iconic Tiffany collections, it’s inspired by the company’s late window designer, Gene Moore.
Jen Cullen Williams and Duvall O’Steen explore how jewelers can save time and money by using AI to analyze engagement and create content.
The retailer previously turned down an $8.4 billion offer in 2018.
The Florida store’s owner Miguel Gonzalez is retiring.
The lab stresses the importance of accurate identification, as the difference in price is “substantial.”
The brand also plans to expand its retail footprint from 138 to 200 stores over the next three years.
One is reserved for a NAJA member, the other for a non-member.
Longtime employees Carie Lehrke and Megan Mattice have received promotions.
Three guests joined National Jeweler and Jewelers of America to discuss trending time periods, spotting reproductions, and more.
Chris Clipper and Robert Lepere join the company with 50 years of combined experience.
The trendy, metallic earrings wink at classic spring colors.