Spitball Army

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Analysts expressed surprise at the enduring strength of online spending, the growth of which was expected to begin tapering off after years of steep increases.

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Mr. [John D.] Morris [senior retail analyst at Wachovia Securities] said the problem was compounded by lackluster merchandise in the mall. Little has stood out so far this season, with chains relying heavily, for example, on that winter staple, the chunky sweater.

“There is a lot of sameness” in stores, Mr. Morris said.

As we watch the steady march to the internet marketplace erode the quality and character of the local retail landscape, please don’t say you hadn’t been warned.

Read the complete article here.