Retail Cargo Traffic Now Estimated to be Lowest Since 2004
by Christina Lee on November 12th, 2008
Experts now predict that 2008 retail cargo traffic will be the lowest since 2004 – a sign of cautious behavior from retailers this holiday season. The National Retail Federation now expects cargo volume to total 15.3 million TEU (20-foot equivalent units) for the year, a 7.1 percent decline from last year. A month ago, the trade group foresaw a 6.5 percent drop in yearly retail cargo traffic, with total cargo volume being the lowest since 2005. With retailers attempting to avoid unplanned post-holiday markdowns, “the balance between supply and demand is tougher than ever,” said Jonathan Gold, vice-president for supply... Read more »