Forecast: holiday bargains ahead

Shoppers could see bargains this holiday season as retailers offer many promotions out of concerns that consumers might be cutting back on their spending.

A rash of promotions is one prediction in a holiday sales forecast issued by the International Council of Shopping Centers, a New York-based trade association of shopping centers.

The council projects that the nation's retail sales will rise 2.5 percent during November and December when compared with the same period for last year.

While personal income has strengthened, the continuing weakness in the housing and mortgage markets has reduced the consumer's willingness and ability to spend, reported the council, which added that high energy prices will continue to be a drag on discretionary purchasing power.
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)