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Report: Consumer Confidence Up
Consumer confidenc rose by nearly 10 points from November to December, nearing its post-recession high, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Mall Of America Disruption Brings More Security
Though shoppers seemed undeterred by the post-Christmas disruptions at Minnesota's Mall of America, the mall added security to prevent a repeat of the fighting and thefts that caused many stores to shut down the day after Christmas.
Best Buy Apologizes For Canceling Orders
Best Buy is apologizing for abruptly canceling orders placed by some customers on Thanksgiving weekend and Cyber Monday. The company was apparently unequipped to handle the flood of customers attracted by free online shipping.
Sears Will Close More Than 100 Stores
After weak holiday sales, Sears Holdings will close more than 120 Sears and Kmart stores.
Neiman Marcus Steps Up Social Media
Neiman Marcus becomes a rare luxury brand to make a more aggressive move into social media marketing, Ad Age reports.
Holiday Returns Rising
After a strong beginning to the holiday shopping season, a bit of a backlash has begun, as consumers are returning items in unusually high numbers.
Toy Industry 'Recession-Proof'?
Though they're expensive, American Girl dolls are selling well through the economic downturn, the Washington Times reports, also Toy Industry Association President Carther Keithley as saying the toy industry "has proven to be relatively 'recession-proof.'"
CA Lawyers Eye Retailers That Don't Provide Chairs For Employees
California attorneys are reportedly claiming that a number of high-profile retailers are in volation of a labor law requiring "suitable seating" for employees who spend much of the day on their feet.
Supreme Court Kills Wal-Mart Suit
The Supreme Court has called an end to a class action suit against Wal-Mart, saying the class involved -- all curent and former female employees -- was unmanageably large, CNN reports.
Shopping For Seniors
As baby boomers age, stores are looking to accommodate older shoppers with improved lighting, adjustments to counter heights, and other accommodations, NPR reports.