--Good news for furniture retailers just in time for Labor Day weekend sales--

Charleston, SC September 1, 2002 ---–The Furniture Buying Index rose three points this month to a reading of 84. The index bounces back this month from a two point drop in August, making the index the highest it has been since the summer of 2000.

Britt Beemer, Chairman of America’s Research Group, cited, “with back-to-school behind them, consumers are now focusing on their home.” Beemer further explained, “this is good news for furniture retailers who need a strong fall selling season.”

“Furniture retailers may be challenged with consumers going out with friends and families,” Beemer stated as the only obstacle retailers may encounter, “but overall September looks to be a very strong retail selling month.”

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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