When it comes to retail industry trends, one refrain is most common — “it’s going to be a tough year.” From huge department stores and shopping malls to exclusively e-commerce and back again, the retail landscape is a fast-moving sector that can be difficult navigate. Plus, it’s a sector that’s heavily dependent on the economy. When people have excess cash burning a hole in their pocket, they’re more likely to splurge on frivolous goods. But when budgets are tight, big ticket items are scratched off shopping lists and unnecessary items are quickly postponed. The year ahead is set to be a tough one for many economies around the…
