An April Easter Helps Retailers Post Best Sales Gain in 2 Years

This year, Easter fell later on our calendar than years previous - 21 days later than last year. The resulting April sales bump stretched across the industry, from discounters to department stores. According to the article, results for stores open at least a year rose an unusually high 6.7 percent compared with the period a year ago. Some retailers posted sales gains nearly twice their monthly average for the year. Retail analysts cautioned that April's buyers might not deliver with the same vigor in May. Within the article, a comparison to the rising gas prices seemed to contradict the rise of sales in the month of April this year. Are the American people spending more money or is this trend a one-time deal due to the Easter holiday? Many schools and businesses recieve at least 2 or 3 days off, perhaps allowing those work-aholics a chance to get out and do some Spring shopping? I am confused by the gas issue -- shopping most often requires transportation and both, transportation and shopping, require money. Where is everyone getting this money from? How will these same stores fair in May?