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Strong Retail Sales Offer a Bright Outlook for 2011

Guest post by: Jocelyn Chavez

Article Overview: Amid reports of the strongest holiday retail sales season in five years, optimism is in the air. According to MasterCard SpendingPulse™, a macroeconomic indicator that tracks consumer spending, U.S. retail sales (excluding automobiles) for the period between November, 5 and December 24, 2010, were up 5.5%, to $584.3 billion, compared with a year ago. And the 5.5% increase exceeded industry expectations, surpassing the 3.3% improvement that The National Retail Federation had projected.

Strong Retail Sales Offer a Bright Outlook for 2011

Amid reports of the strongest holiday retail sales season in five years, optimism is in the air. According to MasterCard SpendingPulse^TM, a macroeconomic indicator that tracks consumer spending, U.S. retail sales (excluding automobiles) for the period between November, 5 and December 24, 2010, were up 5.5%, to $584.3 billion, compared with a year ago. And the 5.5% increase exceeded industry expectations, surpassing the 3.3% improvement that The National Retail Federation had projected.

Loosened purse strings, increased consumer confidence and spending not only provide retailers with a boost, but it can also bolster the economic outlook and have a positive ripple effect on other sectors.

Whether you're interested in owning a retail franchise, a food, fitness or home services concept, now is an ideal time to explore your options. Established franchises and business opportunities are available in over 90 diverse industries, so you're sure to find a concept that suits your interests and goals. Previous industry experience typically is not necessary to qualify as comprehensive training is often provided. And with low-investment opportunities available, there are businesses to fit most budgets.

If you'd like to tap into the momentum and own a business that caters to the needs of consumers and businesses in your community, start exploring your options now.

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Article Tags: 2011 economic outlook, bright outlook, business ownership in 2011, industry expectations, national retail federation, optimism, retail sales, selfemployment



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