Retailers are bracing for what could be a profitable holiday shopping season, despite a great deal of uncertainty. The National Retail Federation expects holiday sales this year to increase 4.1 percent to $586.1 billion.
"The feel of the wheel will seal the deal," an old car salesman saying about the traditional test drive. But some buyers are skipping the road test these days.
With a month to go before most New Jersey students head back to school, many parents are hitting the stores a little early to restock and replenish backpacks, folders, clothing and other items and the economy won't be far from their minds.