Retail Sales Merrier In Niles and Across Nation

With some Niles stores reporting double-digit sales increases over last year, the village seems to be following the national trend of rising retail sales.

The U.S. Commerce Department reported Wednesday that retail sales for November rose 0.8 percent over October and 7.7 percent over November 2009 figures.  It was a higher-than-expected gain.

"Retail sales data have now shown five consecutive months of strong gains and underscore continuing growth in consumer spending," Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said in a release. "Retail sales is one of many positive economic indicators that confirm our economy is moving in the right direction."

In Niles, November sales data won't be released until January, but Denise McCreery, business coordinator for the village, said businesses are more optimistic than last year.

As part of her job, McCreery reaches out to business owners and makes personal visits to see if they need anything from the village.

"In my wellness visits, I'm definitely seeing much more optimism. That's been very exciting," she said.

"People who one year ago had great concerns about the future of their businesses and what their futures were going to be now have a more positive outlook," McCreery added.

Regina Verdico, marketing director of echoed McCreery's viewpoint. While she doesn't get sales figures until 30 days after the close of the month, she offered encouraging signs from local retailers.

"Stores are reporting double-digit [sales] increases.  Our research shows that shoppers are in the holiday spirit," she said. "We are confident Golf Mill Shopping Center will perform well this holiday season."