How important is the retail sector of the economy?

MPR's senior economics correspondent Chris Farrell stops by Midday during a busy shopping week, to answer questions about consumer spending and the health of the economy.

Guests

• Chris Farrell: Economics editor, American Public Media's Marketplace Money. Economics correspondent for APM's American RadioWorks documentary unit. Chief economics correspondent, Minnesota Public Radio. Contributing economics editor, Business Week magazine. Author of "The New Frugality: How to Consume Less, Save More and Live Better" (Dec 2009) and "Right on the Money: Taking Control of Your Personal Finances."
• Gita Sitaramiah: Business reporter for 11 years at the St. Paul Pioneer Press. Specializes in retail and has also covered restaurants.

More from MPR

• Target Corp. cuts 85 jobs in marketing
  October 29, 2009
• Target begins nationwide reusable bag policy
  October 20, 2009
• Target joins in price war on expected best sellers
  October 19, 2009
• Strong loonie sends Canadian shoppers south
  October 16, 2009

Resources

• About Chris Farrell