The Retail Association of Nevada predicts that this year’s holiday sales will increase 7 percent over last year’s, despite wavering national forecasts.
“We remain optimistic for a strong holiday shopping season in Nevada despite the modest growth in holiday sales expected nationwide,” said Bryan Wachter of RAN.
September’s retail taxable sales were up 5.8 percent year over year, he said.
The 7 percent prediction translates to $1.7 billion in total sales, up from $1.59 billion a year ago, Wachter said.
He said that estimate is based on strong growth in specific sales. Nevada’s non-store retailers reported increases in taxable sales in Nevada of 25 percent, while food and beverage stores were up 12.7 percent and building material sales were up 10 percent.