We look for actual GAF (General Merchandise, Apparel, ...

We look for actual GAF (General Merchandise, Apparel, and Furniture/Furnishings) spending - which accounts for most holiday spending by consumers - to reach between $172 - $174 billion, which would represent a 5 - 6 percent increase over last year... This could make the 1998 holiday season the best since 1994's 8 percent gain.