Chain Stores Sales Up Last Week Over 2010

New York, NY, Aug. 23, 2011 --  Chain-store sales for the week ended Aug. 20 rose 3% from a year ago, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers.

It was the smallest gain since June 25, the trade group said.

On a week-over-week basis, sales fell 1%, their fourth straight weekly drop.

"Sales were mixed nationwide for the week with discounter business weaker overall which in turn dragged down the weekly industry performance," said Michael Niemira, ICSC's chief economist.

"However, back-to-school sales got a lift in the Midwest through the East, in particular, from favorable cooler temperatures. As worry about the economy lingered, energy prices continued to recede and helped to lift consumers' purchasing power potential."