I think it gives them another way to become more visible. |
I think there will be a recovery. The economy is still growing, although it's at a slower pace. |
Retailing is retailing, and Kmart was not where it should have been. From that point of view, I think that new blood has got to be a benefit. |
Since Sears is involved in home installation, installing the broadband would probably be a natural adjunct in terms of offering services. |
This is just one step in many. I think they look to be dominant in virtually everything they do. |
We are interested to hear about initial response to spring assortments, especially as gift card usage is on the rise, which could have led to higher spring selling January and February. |
While management will likely continue to guide conservatively, we expect 2006 outlook will be at least in-line with (analysts' consensus estimate of) $4.18. JC Penney's stepped up branding campaign, which kicks off March 2 and includes a temporary NY store, should drive some sales and more importantly position them for market share gains as industry rationalization frees up share. |