Conversation groups

-- Casual Living, 11/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

Retail sales for deep-seating groups are projected to increase 3.2% this year, hitting $376 million.

Discount department stores, with a 31% market share, are projected to grow 3.5% in 2007 to $115 million. Minneapolis-based Target is the standout player within the channel.

Specialty stores, with a 30% market share, are strong contenders within the category. Sales for specialty stores are just $2 million shy of the discounters and are expected to grow 3.2% to $113 million this year.

Data from Casual Living's 2007 Consumer Buying Trends showed that three-fifths of the groups purchased last year were three-piece sets with two chairs and an occasional table and another one-fifth purchased were four-piece groupings, with two chairs, a loveseat or sofa and an occasional table as the most likely configuration.