N.H. Retailers Optimistic About Holiday Revenue

New Hampshire retailers are expecting their holiday sales to be up four percent, slightly higher than what's expected nationally.  
 
The Retail Merchants Association of New Hampshire says 73 percent of those businesses surveyed are anticipating their 2013 holiday sales will be the same or better than last year. The survey said 58 percent of the respondents said their store traffic so far this year has been the same or better than last year. 
 
When asked what factors would have the biggest impact on sales, 90 percent of respondents thought consumer's uncertainty over government actions would be detrimental to spending.  However, on the plus side, lower gasoline prices/energy costs will result in more discretionary spending.  
 
Association members were surveyed via newsletter, email and social media between Oct. 7 and Nov. 4.