2021 Holiday Retail Sales Exceed Pre-Pandemic Numbers

The transcript discusses a significant 9% increase in MasterCard sales, marking the largest annual gain in 17 years. Sarah Hollenbeck reports on the recovery of local retailers, highlighting Mirabella Fashions' turnaround post-pandemic. Retail spending has surpassed pre-pandemic levels, with a notable 11% increase in sales compared to 2019. Consumers are gradually returning to stores, although online shopping has surged by 60%. Retailers express optimism for the upcoming year, feeling relieved to start the year in a positive financial position.

What was the percentage increase in MasterCard sales over the last year?

• 13%

• 11%

• 7%

• 9%

How did Joy Hellmann's Mirabella Fashions manage to survive during the pandemic?

• Online sales

• Government grants

• Community support

• Partnership with a large retailer

By what percentage did retail spending increase this November and December compared to 2019?

• 8%

• 11%

• 10%

• 12%

What was the increase in online shopping from pre-pandemic levels?

• 70%

• 40%

• 60%

• 50%

How do retailers feel about the upcoming year?

• Uncertain

• Indifferent

• Optimistic

• Pessimistic