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Government states stimulus checks are working
June 13, 2008

According to an article published in the Biltmore Sun newspaper, the governement's stimulus checks are indeed working.  "The Commerce Department reported yesterday that retail sales soared 1 percent last month, double what had been expected. It was the largest increase since November and represented strong sales at a variety of retailers including the biggest increase at department stores and other general merchandise stores in a year."   

I've asked multiple retailers if they've seen an uptick in their numbers since the checks were mailed, and the majority have said yes.  Home remodeling and electronics seem to be the most popular items purchased, as well as outdoor equipment (tents, tennis rackets).  

This is good news for the retail industry, which has been experiencing a slump for the past two years.  With the gas prices over $4.00 in most areas, many retailers have noticed an large increase (5% or more) in the number of online orders.  That, I believe, is to be expected. Many people don't equate the high gas prices with the additional shipping expenses because they're not physically watching the numbers rise, like they do when they pump gas into their car.  This bodes well for online stores.

Are you noticing a difference with the checks?

Posted by Suze Bragg on June 13, 2008 | Comments (0)