1.   Both companies are expected to offer some discounting for holiday sales.

2.   It blamed lower holiday sales, crimped gross Margin, stormy weather and higher costs.

3.   Since November, the pace of borrowing likely slowed as department and chain stores reported dismal holiday sales.

4.   Although estimates of online holiday sales vary widely, most predict another season of explosive growth.

5.   Among Internet companies, stock investors have rewarded Yahoo, which announced Tuesday that in contrast to many online retailers, its holiday sales had doubled over last year.

6.   Analysts and industry observers are giving holiday sales projections that are all over the board.

7.   Analysts say the deals may get even better within three months, as manufacturers fight for holiday sales.

8.   And holiday sales are critical for retailers, accounting for about half of annual profits.

9.   And for some wholesalers, holiday sales have been a key part in inventory buildup.

10.   And retailers are counting on strong holiday sales.