global recession

Retail Sales Figures Indicate Stingy Shoppers

NPR Programs: Morning Edition  Wed, 08/19/2009 - 4:20am

There have been some positive signs this week that the global recession may be easing, but many U.S. consumers seem skeptical.

Retail sales for some large chains declined over the last quarter. Nordstrom, Macy's and J.C. Penney's all posted losses.

But TJX, which owns mega discount chains T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, bucked the trend and saw its profits rise 27 percent.



 

German Toy Train Maker Off The Tracks

NPR Programs: Morning Edition  Fri, 05/15/2009 - 4:10am

The German toy producer Marklin makes model trains loved around the world. But the 150-year-old firm is now seeking bankruptcy protection, a victim of the global recession and alleged company mismanagement.

Some believe avid fans of the trains could save the endangered toymaker.

» E-Mail This     » Add to Del.icio.us