Deep DiveUS Back to School 2019: Retail Outlook Coresight Research July 29, 2019 Executive SummaryIn our first report in our US Back-to-School series for 2019, we provide an outlook for US retail this back-to-school season. We expect to see 2.0-2.5% year-over-year growth in nonfood retailer sales from July to September (the back-to-school shopping period) this year, a significant slowdown from last year’s 4.4%. Consumers are interested in good deals, making discount stores the second most popular destination for back-to-school shopping, behind department stores. Apparel is the biggest category for back-to-school shoppers, and electronics is the biggest for back-to-college. Already a subscriber? Log in You are currently viewing a preview of this report. Please select an access option to view the full report. Hide Options - Show Options + Get unlimited access to all our research with one of our subscription plans. View Subscription Plans or Contact us to purchase this report. Contact us ✕ This document was generated for Other research you may be interested in: High-Income Consumers Drive Uptick in Financial Optimism: Weekly US Consumer Sentiment, Week 22, 2025—InfographicEarnings Insights 1Q25, Week 6: Costco Wholesale, Deckers Outdoor and Ulta Beauty Report Growth While Department Stores Face Challenges—InfographicAugust 2025 US Retail Sales: Growth Normalizes as July’s Promotional Boost FadesUS Retail Sales Outlook—Preview: Latest Retail Projections in the Absence of Government Data