October 2007 Outlook Better Than Last Year

-- Casual Living, 10/16/2007 7:09:00 AM

Nationally, October 2006 was the coldest in four years and the 29th coldest in 112 years. Rainfall was excessive with the 12th wettest October in 112 of national records. Snowfall got off to a fast start as well with a record early blizzard in Buffalo and the earliest measurable snowfall ever in Chicago and Detroit. Obviously with all the cold and wet weather, outdoor product sales suffered. 

What a difference a years maks as October 2007 looks to be +2.0 degrees F. warmer than last year and more like 2005, but even drier. The eastern half of the natoin will be especially favorable as much drier conditions will accompany the warmth. Warm and dry conditions will still have consumers outside in the evening enjoying their decks and patios, especially across the South. As days get shorter, consumers will also be seeking outdoor lighting products to take advantage of the mild evenings. Promotions focusing more on needed products and less on markdowns will be more eeffective this year as store traffic and demand will be higher.



October US temperatures



October US Precipitation

  Source

jgrum@survdata.com
www.wxtrends.com