22 Quotes by Steve Kernkraut

We're in a marketplace where any kind of negative signal worries people. The same way some of the tech companies caused a ripple, I think investors hear Lowe's issue a warning, hear what's going on with one of the great players in the sector, and they get nervous.

Most stores are filled with polar fleece and sweaters, but in 85-degree heat when people are wearing shorts, it's hard to sell those items.

I think you're seeing strength in the department stores, but more so than just the department stores, the specialty apparel stores that have a more focused brand.

I think it was a realistic, pragmatic view of what the strengths and weaknesses of the company are. He didn't break new ground with the initiatives, but directionally I think he set the stage for change, and I think by March or April of next year we'll see a change.

I think they made a lot of fashion changes, but there's been a general malaise in women's fashion apparel. What's somewhat concerning here is that Nordstrom has transitioned totally to fall earlier. Is their fashion not on target, or is the consumer really concerned about the rising gas prices?

I think they're only in the first or second inning of a turnaround. They've done a miraculous job, but I think there's much more to come.

I think the retail sector is a great sector to buy because they don't have any of these Asian flu syndrome. I mean, all the things that are happening in Asia right now are positive to retailers because a lot of these retailers -- their cost will go down and they'll be able to bring goods into the United States at a lower...cost basis.

I think this is a good move, the right move to make.

The expectation is that it's going to be a very disappointing season. Business never materialized, and when it did, it was right around Christmas. It was too little, too late, and I think it became way too promotional.