As merchants report results Thursday, warehouse club operator Costco Wholesale Corp., The Buckle and Children's Place Retail Stores Inc. are reporting gains.
Even Sears Holdings Corp. is announcing a small increase because of strength at Kmart stores. Sears and Limited Brands are among retailers raising profit outlooks.
Stragglers included jewelry chain Zale Corp.
The sales figures are based on sales at stores open at least a year and are considered a key indicator of a retailer's health.
