Wholesalers Cut Stockpiles to Lowest Level in 17 Months
U.S. wholesalers cut their restocking in February by the most in 17 months. But their sales jumped, suggesting companies underestimated consumer demand.
wholesale
Costco's Membership Fees, Low Prices a Magic Formula
With consumers pinching pennies, why are so many people willing to pay just for the right to shop at one chain? Costco, it seems, has found a magic formula.
How Costco Became the Anti-Walmart
Both Costco and Walmart are places where people go to buy in bulk and save money. But while Walmart employees are striking for higher wages and healthcare, Costco has among the happiest employees in the business, and also offers the occasional brand name.
Retailers Cut Corners to Avoid Apparel Price Hikes
Expect your T-shirts to get a little bit thinner next year -- and maybe a little more expensive. Apparel retailers are looking high and low for ways to keep from passing on too much of their own rising costs to consumers. The trick: Doing so without hurting quality.
Can Swatch Stop Costco from Selling Omega Watches?
By buying Omega watches from an overseas distributor, Costco has been able to sell them at well below the suggested retail price. Can Swatch use its copyright to stop Costco? The U.S. Supreme Court's decision could have broad implications for the so-called "gray" market.
Inflation Is Quiet. Is Deflation the Main Threat Now?
The producer price index fell 0.5% in June, more than expected. Along with manufacturing data out Thursday, the price data give more support to analysts who are worried that deflation remains the biggest threat to the economy.