Retail sales

Manufacturers and retailers have to decide what to make or stock now based on where they think the economy will be later.

Retail sales were up 3% in January from the month before, but some categories — like building supplies — were mostly flat.

Data released this week shows there’s a disconnect between what people say and what they do.

"It's fun but it's difficult to know how much to make when everyone comes in on the same day," said Kristin Thalheimer Bingham, co-owner of Dean's Sweets in Portland, Maine.

We spent despite being whipsawed by economic news. Raises and slowing inflation helped.

Most executives predict that consumers will continue to be more selective this year.

The owner of a North Carolina toy shop talks about the state of her business after the holiday retail season.

How did this holiday season go? A few entrepreneurs weigh in.

Sales rose 0.3% last month, but there are signs some consumers are pulling back on big-ticket items, excluding cars.

Big-box retailers are dumping excess inventory because of lower sales. Liquidators, who resell that merchandise, are thriving.