Have you tried to book a vacation around the holidays lately? You have to do it six months in advance.

268

We look for actual GAF (General Merchandise, Apparel, and Furniture/Furnishings) spending - which accounts for most holiday spending by consumers - to reach between $172 - $174 billion, which would represent a 5 - 6 percent increase over last year, ... This could make the 1998 holiday season the best since 1994's 8 percent gain.

262

You've had this long-term recovery and basically there aren't too many people in the United States who need anything more.

195

There isn't much good news out there.

175

I think what you have for the last two years is basically what you're going to have this year: perhaps a little bit better (sales).

130

I think this works for New York City.

122