Andrus said so far in 1996, no single toy has emerged as the blockbuster toy, like a Cabbage Patch Doll, that brings shoppers to stores. Retailers also pray for good weather, but not necessarily bright sunny skies. The cold weather kind of gets everybody in the mood. Should those factors come together, consumers should respond, Andrus said. Personal income has increased and the unemployment rate is low.
Consumer confidence appears to be high.