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Shop Talk

Retailers, consumers and prices

May 13th, 2008

Check Out Line: Discounting the discounter

Posted by: Brad Dorfman

wmt.jpgCheck out Wal-Mart’s earnings.

The world’s largest retailer posted a 7 percent rise in quarterly profits.

But even as the discounter drew cash-strapped consumers looking to save money, the company also indicated that it could miss second-quarter earnings estimates, which pressured its stock price in the morning.

Consumers are being hit by higher transportation costs and a difficult economic climate, the company acknowledged.

“Customers are faced with results of a tougher economy, higher gas prices, food inflation and the increase in the overall cost of living,” said Eduardo Castro-Wright, head of Wal-Mart’s U.S. operations, on a recorded call.

It also is becoming more obvious that customers are running out of money between paychecks as the company sees business ebb and flow with the paycheck cycle, the retailer said.

Also in the basket:
 
Pain at the other pump: shoe prices rise (Wall Street Journal)
 
Liz Claiborne posts net loss, cuts year outlook

March 14th, 2008

Check Out Line: More for the Man’s Wardrobe

Posted by: Karen Jacobs

dkny.jpgCheck out new offerings for men from DKNY.

Fashion House Donna Karan International reached a licensing deal with Liz Claiborne to create a new line of men’s sportswear for the United States and Canada.

The collection, to include knits, trousers, blazers and coats, will be targeted to the “better” segment, with articles priced from $59.50 to $595. It will be available in department stores in fall of this year.

The move will help the fashion house named for Karan (pictured) reach a wider audience as other designers such as Vera Wang have partnered with retailers on clothing lines.

Also in the basket:

Nike finds problems at China factories

AnnTaylor reports quarterly loss

(Photo: Reuters)