--Historically, the FBI drops during early summer. However, this year it is above 70.--

Charleston, SC June 1, 2001 - --- The Furniture Buying Index jumped again this month, moving upward to a reading of 72. America’s Research Group’s research shows furniture shopping levels over Memorial Day weekend up 5% to 6% compared to a year ago.

Britt Beemer, founder and retail research director for America’s Research Group, is pleasantly surprised by the Furniture Buying Index which gives the industry new hope. Beemer says “summer 2001 may be stronger than earlier expected.”

“Our clients are reporting strong sales on Memorial Day weekend and they should see strong sales again for July 4th weekend,” cited Beemer.

Mr. Beemer concludes, “it is positive to see the Index go up across nearly every region of the country.”

The Furniture Buying Index is compiled each month by America's Research Group from interviews with 5,000-8,000 consumers across the country. In a typical month, 80 percent of the consumers interviewed can name a specific furniture item they intend to buy. The Index's mark signifies what percent of the benchmark 80% actually have a particular item in mind.

Britt Beemer is chairman of America's Research Group, a full-service consumer behavior research company based in Charleston, SC. ARG provides research and strategic planning services to leading manufacturers and retailers of consumer goods across North America.

For more information call:
C. Britt Beemer
800-723-3253 or REQUEST MORE INFORMATION

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