Retail Sales Growth Slows as Shoppers Take a Pre-Holiday Break

Nov. 05--Middle- and low-income consumers are turning into "appointment shoppers." When they need something, they will come. But in October, an off month wedged between retail's two busiest times of the year, back-to-school and holiday, shoppers seemed to pause -- especially when warmer weather meant they didn't yet need new coats and sweaters, analysts said. Teen retailers Abercrombie & Fitch, American Eagle Outfitters and Aeropostale disappointed, as did department store chains J.C. Penney and Kohl's. But high-end retailers Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue fared better, said Amy Noblin, analyst at Weeden & Co. "Business improved at the