--Buying furniture is on consumers’ minds, but not a top priority--

Charleston, SC June 1, 2003 – The Furniture Buying Index is up a point this month. This small upward turn proves that consumers are thinking about buying furniture, but have not made it a priority.

Britt Beemer, Chairman of America’s Research Group, explains that, “as the Furniture Buying Index inches its way upward consumers are considering a furniture purchase, but they have not broken free from their concerns with the economy.”

Beemer added that, “the continued increase for furniture buying should make furniture retailers happy because this summer will be a stronger selling season than a year ago.” Beemer finished by explaining that “a year ago shopping levels for furniture declined after Memorial Day, but this year it is definitely going to be more positive.”

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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