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 retail spending compared to pre-pandemic levels?

What was the sentiment of retailers as they approached the new year?