Retail Refugees

Deloitte has just released its analysis and prediction for the coming holiday shopping season.  Due to the increase energy costs, and all of the various issues the global economy is facing now, obviously gains are predicted to be less than usual.  However, their prediction is still positive-  a 2.5-3% increase.

Pessimists may be quick to point out that normally a higher increase (3.4 for example last year) but I feel that all is not lost…  At least there is still growth.

Does anybody have predictions how this will affect independent retail versus more mass brands?  It was said that the luxury market will not be affected as much- possibly the same will be true for niche retailers.