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

That's right! Holiday stories should be about what's interesting. While that may be about what is new and different this year, sometimes readers also want to read about something familiar they find interesting, such as the confectioner's process of making chocolates for Valentine's Day.

Correct! The data in these reports include a much broader range of retailers than same-store sales. It also measures sales at all stores (net sales), not just those open at least a year (same-store sales).

Correct! Brick-and-mortar stores spend a lot of time analyzing and adjusting their visual displays to help maximize traffic and sales.

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.

You got it! This group was a significant player in the national health-care debate in 2012-14 and has also weighed in on online sales tax collection.

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.

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!

Super star! That is correct!