Check out how discounts, rebate checks and sweltering summer weather are helping some retailers thrive in the down economy.

Wal-Mart posted June sales that topped expectations and boosted its second-quarter earnings forecast after rebate check-wielding shoppers filled their carts with food, medicine and flat-screen TVs.

Discounter Family Dollar Stores posted a better-than-expected 8 percent gain in sales at stores open at least a year, boosted by government tax rebates.

Off-price retailers TJX Cos, parent of T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, and Ross Stores Inc reported June sales that topped estimates and raised quarterly profit forecasts after warm weather boosted demand for summer clothing.

But the news is not all good.

Upscale department store Nordstrom Inc said June sales tumbled almost 19 percent after it shifted the date of its half-yearly sale from June to May.

U.S. retailers avoid June Swoon; tax rebates help

Limited’s June same-store sales fall 9 percent

Gap June same-store sales down less than expected

Target posts small June same-store sales rise

(Photo: Reuters)