MARQUETTE -- Auto sales rose significantly nationwide in September.
Reports show that consumers spent more on luxury items such as vehicles, clothing and furniture last month. Here in the U.P., that gain is also a hopeful sign that the economy may take a positive turn.
Experts say that since consumer confidence has increased, it could mean more business opportunities in the Upper Peninisula.
"If they're spending on those luxury items, that means that they already have the necessities covered. So that means that they're feeling a little bit more confident about their livelihood, the income that they're earning and their job stability, and this is a positive thing. So consumer confidence will likely gain momentum," said Dr. Tawni Ferrarini, Sam M. Cohodas Professor of Economics at NMU.
Auto sales increased 3.6 percent in the last month and retail sales rose 1.1 percent overall.
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