Christmas in July

It’s only July, but some stores are already full of fall fashion. There is nothing new about rushing the seasons -- it’s been standard procedure for retailers for years now, particularly those of the luxury variety. Still, I was hoping that the economic downturn would inspire merchants to think more like consumers. And in July, most of us are thinking bathing suits, not warm cover-ups.

But if that wasn’t bad enough, the Chicago Tribune reported today that Sears Holdings has opened Christmas decor shops in its stores and also set up “Christmas Lane” boutiques at Sears.com and Kmart.com. While Sears is obviously hoping to get shoppers in the spirit (and a gift-buying mood) early, the strategy also reflects how competitive the upcoming holiday season is likely to be. And just how worried retailers are that shoppers are going to give Scrooge a run for his money this year.

Anyone willing to make any predictions for the upcoming holiday season?