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Planalytics U.S. WeatherCall Report: Heat Waves and Severe Weather Events Spike July Retail Sales |
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August 5, 2008
Planalytics Inc., the global leader in Business Weather Intelligence®, explained in its July WeatherCallSM report that the 15th warmest July in 50 years was a positive force for many retail chains. Broadline and softline chains enjoyed the most success with Fred’s Inc. (FRED), Walmart Stores (WMX), Hibbett Sports (HIBB) and Citi Trends (CTRN) among the companies showing the largest positive year-on-year weather-driven demand indices.
Warm temperatures are the primary driver for most summer merchandise categories. July 2008 certainly had its fair share of warm temperatures throughout the country. Businesses throughout much of the West, Texas and the northeast experienced strong weather-driven demand for fans, cold beverages and sun care products. Furthermore, year-on-year measurements were positive for the following products: Lawn & Garden (+11%), Air Conditioners (+10%), Sleeveless Tops (+6%), Sandals (+4%), and Fitness Drinks (+3%).
One of the bigger stories in July was the development of Hurricane Dolly, which reached shores in south Texas, causing structural damage and power outages. Rainfall totals of 10 to 15 inches produced exceptional flooding in the Rio Grande Valley. Other notable storms included Hurricane Bertha and Tropical Storm Christobal. Both storms did not generate a large impact on U.S. soil, thus having no immediate consumer effect.
“Sales of consumer staples such as bottled water, ice, non-perishable foods, and batteries spiked in areas affected by severe weather” said Scott Bernhardt, COO for Planalytics. Bernhardt continued, “Strong surges of heat and humidity during the month followed in the footsteps of a favorable June, helping to sustain high demand for summer products.”
For more information, contact Planalytics Inc. at 1-800-882-5881.
About Planalytics
Planalytics Inc. (www.planalytics.com) is the singular global source of Business Weather Intelligence® – the actionable information retail, manufacturing, life sciences and energy companies need to understand and optimize the impact of weather on their business. Weather is the most volatile of all external factors affecting business performance and Planalytics helps companies proactively manage this risk. Powered by an unparalleled database of weather’s financial and volumetric impacts, proprietary modeling technologies and market-specific expertise, Planalytics’ Business Weather Intelligence is essential to any company, in any industry, looking to effectively shape strategies, pinpoint opportunities and make more profitable decisions.
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