Last July was the coldest in three years, with 89% of the nation trending colder than July 2006. The number of hot days over 90 degrees were down 24% nationally versus the prior year, and extremely hot days over 100 degrees were down a significant 60%. The cooler weather and slowing economy produced a more sluggish sales environment for the clearance of patio product and deck categories.

July 2008 promises to be the best month of the summer season. Plenty of sunshine and hot weather from Texas to the Northeast will have shoppers seeking outdoor shade products such as umbrellas and canopies. The hot weather also will spur shoppers to seek porch fans and patio misting systems.

Summer clearance sales will be more successful later this month when many retailers in the Eastern half of the nation begin to clear out remaining inventory with minimal markdowns.

Unfortunately, economic headwinds such as high fuel prices and declining real estate values will continue to hamper what would be, weatherwise, an outstanding month.