As the American economy continues to improve and the unemployment rate falls, consumer confidence is slowly improving, a new Bloomberg report suggests.

For the second consecutive week, the Bloomberg Consumer Comfort Index shows consumer confidence in the U.S is on the rise. The index was observed at minus 44.8 on January 29, up from minus 46.4 the previous week. This is the best reading from the index since June.

"Gains in employment and post-holiday clearance sales at retailers also helped create a better buying climate for consumers," RetailingToday notes, citing the report.

For retailers, the improving consumer confidence index is absolutely paramount to their success. Confident Americans are more likely to spend big at retail, while less confidence conversely means fewer dollars given to merchants.

While there is very little companies can do to affect consumer confidence, it's crucial they make shopping as easy as possible when Americans are more hesitant to spend money. Whether they run more sales and discounts or simply make the shopping experience more enjoyable, it's the little things that count.

This entry was posted by Retail Pro on Friday, February 10th, 2012 at 2:36 am .