While monthly same-store sales, also known as comps, aren't the be-all and end-all for investors, they're a useful way to gauge consumers' responses to certain retailers' fashion offerings. Given this year's rather dicey view on retail investing, September's same-store sales data among teen-focused retailers gave investors plenty of food for thought.
Among the sector's bright spots, Abercrombie & Fitch
American Eagle Outfitters
On the other hand, Gap
After retail's long, tough summer, when worries over turbulent fashions and macroeconomic concerns kept investors away from the sector, the market has recently seemed to warm up to the industry and its shares. Of course, we're now edging closer to the holiday season. It's logical to suppose that companies currently showing strength should be able to maintain that momentum into the big winter shopping season.
For more on retail, see the following Foolish articles:
- Take a first look at Martin+Osa.
- Are some retailers embarking on a dangerous trend?
- Refresh your memory on Gap's last quarter, which wasn't too hot.
American Eagle Outfitters and Gap are Motley Fool Stock Advisor recommendations, while Gap has also been recommended by Motley Fool Inside Value .
Alyce Lomax does not own shares of any of the companies mentioned. The Fool has a disclosure policy.