Retail sales recorded gains for the fifth consecutive month and follow on the heels of solid GDP numbers, which reflect robust business investment gains and an improving employment landscape, said Marcus & Millichap Research Director Hessam Nadji. Retail sales increased 7.2% in October, with a concentration on necessities such as healthcare and utilities, up 0.7% for the month, but also on discretionary items like electronics and appliances, which climbed 3.7% and 1.5%, respectively. Yet, industry expectations for the 2011 holiday season sales remain mixed, with cautious optimism ranging between a 2.8% and 3% gain.For the full report, CLICK HERE
