Correct! When you cover the retail beat, you cover a lot more than going to the mall.

Correct! Same-store or comparable-store sales measure the amount of sales that month only at stores that have been open for at least a year.

That's right! Commercial developers seek to build successful shopping centers, so they must understand retailers and stay on top of the latest store formats and popular brands. They tend to have the scoop on new stores coming to town and which ones may be leaving.

Correct! Although this is not true of all companies, this is a good timeline for when you can expect new reports from many major retailers.

Super star! That is correct!

That's right! A store is still private property even though the business is open to the public. You should get permission from a manager before filming or taking photos inside a store.

Correct! Retailers typically think of their prices and merchandise in terms of “good, better and best.” Good is the cheapest and most basic product; best is the most expensive and elaborate.

Correct! These are products that have been in stock for a long time, often due to seasonality or trends. No retailer wants to have dead stock or inventory.

Correct! Although you are welcome to directly message a brand on social media, it isn't listed as one of the best ways to make connections with your local retail scene.

Correct! It's never too early to start thinking about your holiday coverage!