The quarterly retail figures — the weakest pace in more than a year — underscore consumer caution around spending in the face of economic and tariff uncertainty.

The crippling U.S.-imposed levies have hit labor-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather, footwear, and gems and jewelry the hardest.

President Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January kicked off a rollercoaster year for manufacturers, retailers and other U.S. industries dependent on goods from abroad.

Price-sensitive consumers are still prioritizing and saving for spending on family and loved ones during holiday season, retail analysts say.

The Paris prosecutor’s office has opened investigations into Shein, as well as rival online retailers AliExpress, Temu and Wish, over the sale of the sex dolls.

The holiday season now rewards precision over speed. The brands that plan early, communicate clearly, and set prices honestly will win loyalty long after the presents are opened. 

Beyond hunkering down in firefighting mode, it’s just as important that companies take a longer view of things.

Leader roles were affected at a higher rate than individual workers, a company spokesman said, and no roles in stores or the supply chain were impacted.

The U.S. economy appears to be in decent shape – but there could be some dark clouds massing on the horizon.

Companies seeking to navigate uncertainties arising from the U.S-China trade relationship can take a proactive posture to enhance the competitiveness of domestic production.