NRF forecasts retail sales growth of 3.1 percent in 2016
The country's largest retail trade industry group had forecast growth of 4.1 percent for 2015, then revised that figure down to 3.5 percent over the summer after slower-than-expected sales.
The group's annual estimate reflects sales retailers such as discounters, department stores and grocery stores, but excludes sales at automotive dealers, gas stations and restaurants.