Many RSM clients have reported that inflation has been, and continues to be top of mind for them. The data supports what we’ve heard. Throughout the pandemic, the cost of food at home has been the mirror image of the Consumer Price index. … READ MORE >
Chris Shaker
Chart of the Day: Consumer confidence falls to six-year low
The Conference Board’s measure of consumer confidence fell to its lowest level in six years in August, underscoring uncertainty amid high unemployment in a U.S. economy that has faced pandemic-driven stops and starts since mid-March. … READ MORE >
Retailers and restaurants should consider the CARES Act
On March 27 the president signed the CARES Act into law, providing $2 trillion in aid for individuals and business throughout the United States. Great uncertainty exists within the middle market as companies scramble to determine what programs are available, whether they are eligible, and how they can take advantage … … READ MORE >
Betting that size matters: Macy’s closures on trend in retail
Retail closures are not always related to underperforming stores or the downsizing of operations. In many cases, a retailer closes a location because the real estate no longer suits the intended use of physical space now and in the future. … READ MORE >
No holiday break for fashion and apparel
Fresh 15% tariffs on $300 billion of Chinese goods are set to take effect next week. Despite an effort to mitigate the blow amid the impending holiday season by delaying some items on the list, the apparel industry didn’t catch a break. RSM’s Chris Shaker and Carol Lapidus break down the expected impact. … READ MORE >