BOOT - Mall stocks expected to get a boost from strong back-to-school shopping season

jetcityimage/iStock Editorial via Getty Images U.S. retail sales are forecast to rise 5.5% ex-auto and gas during the back-to-school shopping period of July 15 to September 1, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse. Back-to-school sales are seen rising 6.7% compared to the 2019 level. "This back-to-school season will be defined by choice as online sales remain robust, brick and mortar browsing regains momentum and strong promotions help retailers compete for shoppers' wallet," says Mastercard advisor Steve Sadove. The mall sector is expected to do well with the return of brick-and-mortar traffic. Apparel sales are forecast to rise 78% and sales generated from department stores are seen rising 25% (+9.5% from two years ago). Sector watch: TJX Companies (TJX), Ross Stores (ROST), Burlington Stores (BURL), L Brands (LB), Gap (GPS), American Eagle Outfitters (AEO), Urban Outfitters (URBN), Boot Barn (BOOT), Buckle (BKE), Guess (GES), Zumiez (ZUMZ), Kohl's (KSS), Dillard's (DDS), Nordstrom (JWN) and

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Mall stocks expected to get a boost from strong back-to-school shopping season