Top retailers in US see shoppers back in stores

Walmart Inc, Macy’s Inc and Home Depot Inc, have reportedly topped Wall Street's quarterly sales estimates with the increased level of vaccinations boosting store traffic.

In what can be seen as a positive sign, news reports say that top retailers in US, including Walmart Inc, Macy’s Inc  and Home Depot Inc, have topped Wall Street's quarterly sales estimates, as more Americans are starting to shop in stores again for everything from sports equipment to jewelry. All three retailers , propped up by the increased foot traffic and government stimulus checks that fattened shoppers pocketbooks, says the report. Visits to Walmart and Home Depot stores reportedly in April reportedly grew by 21.7% and 23.6% respectively. 

The increased level of vaccinations boosted store traffic, an encouraging sign as consumers move toward a post-pandemic lifestyle and start to spend more for in-person activities, travel and events, Macy's Chief Executive Officer Jeff Ganette is reported to have said.

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon reportedly talked about similar trends, saying customers want to get out and shop. The company on Friday became the first major retailer to walk back its mandatory mask rule for shoppers.

The Indian market can perhaps hope to expect similar trends with a rigorous vaccination drive and stringent safety measures adopted by retailers.