Retail Outlook Positive as Consumer Confidence Returns

May 16, 2012 – (RealEstateRama) — With the macroeconomic background providing further substance to Arizona’s growth, the retail sector found positive momentum this quarter. As confidence builds nationwide the consumer confidence index leveled off around 70 this quarter after hitting a low of 39.8, during third quarter 2011. The index is a measure of the financial health, spending power and confidence of the average consumer, according to The Consumer Confidence Board. The level of expenditures on food, clothing, and desirable products all increased this quarter, boosting the capacity for retail activity