Alina Selyuk

Can't wait to hear about it.

NPR's Alina Selyuk.

The National Retail Federation says this growth will be greater than the recent years or the years before the pandemic.

The forecast counts on a slight boost from tax cuts at the start of the year.

It also predicts that inflation might ease in the second half of the year.

The group acknowledged that it's not considering any potential fallout of the war in Iran, including the impact on shipping or gas prices.

Chief Economist Mark Matthews says the retail group is still optimistic that the resilient American consumer and quote,

the underlying fundamentals of the U.S.

economy will support continued stability in the year ahead.

Alina Seluk, NPR News, Washington.

You're listening to NPR News.

It is time go.

Thumbs up.

For three years now, Target has reported flat or falling sales each quarter, this time down 2.5%.

Here's Kara Sylvester, Chief Merchandising Officer, addressing investors.

But Target is projecting a better year ahead with growing profits and more shoppers visiting.

The chain's new CEO, Michael Fidelke, is not an outsider, but a longtime company executive.

And so far, he's laid off hundreds of corporate staff to streamline the ranks.

And he plans to spend $5 billion to overhaul Target's operations, especially stores.

Executives are promising sharper designs, trendier selections, and attractive prices.