Retailers report September boost

NEW YORK (AP) — Retailers reported surprisingly solid sales gains for September, boosted by back-to-school shopping, much of it pushed into September by parents who had put off trips to the mall.

An array of stores including Macy's Inc., Saks Inc., Victoria's Secret and Bath and Body Works parent Limited Brands Inc. and Abercrombie & Fitch reported better-than-expected results.

The results today give hope for a positive holiday shopping season, although Americans are still dealing with an uncertain economy and high unemployment.

The International Council of Shopping Centers' index of September retail sales rose 2.6 percent, near the low end of its forecast that ranged from 2.5 to 3 percent growth.

"There was really good performance from a handful of stores, a number of pretty good performers and some are still struggling," said Mike Niemira, ICSC director of research and chief economist.