submitted on 9-19-2012 by CBLHoliday sales should ring in a lot of good cheer and end up as one of the best seasons since the Great Recession, the head of one of America’s largest shopping center companies says.
Despite the “distraction” of the presidential race, CBL & Associates Properties Inc. CEO Stephen Lebovitz said Thursday that low gas prices and joblessness coupled with economic strength in most of its markets create a solid shopping scenario.
“We’re positive. We’re optimistic,” Lebovitz said, adding that holiday sales gains are forecast in the 3.5 percent range in 2016 over last year.
Lebovitz, in a telephone interview, also said company officials are proud of the decision to close 72 of its malls, or nearly all of its enclosed centers, for Thanksgiving.
“We feel like we’re really making a difference here,” he said about its mall employees and those who work for retailers in its properties. “It will make a real impact. It’s such a family holiday.”