Citigroup: Best Buy And Dick's Sporting Goods 'Well Positioned To Outshine'

As Black Friday is just a few short days away, Kate McShane of Citigroup commented that

and

are both “well positioned to outshine this holiday.” “Our store checks and industry conversations indicate that while seasonal categories have kicked in, consumers are confused by the early holiday promo noise and are holding out in anticipation of even bigger sales,” McShane wrote in a note to clients on Monday. The analyst adds that

and

started their promotions early, but Best Buy and Dick's Sporting Goods are “retailers to keep an eye on.” According to McShane, Best Buy's offerings are more attractive than they were a year ago while the company's ship-from-store from all U.S. locations should help conversion rates. The analyst adds that the company is focusing on “winning” the Holiday spending while avoiding sharp markdowns across the board. Dick's Sporting Goods, on the other hand, could be another winner due to the hot activewear category along with strong demand for seasonal outwear and boots, according to McShane. In fact, NRF is forecasting that clothing and accessories will be the number one most shopped for product this Holiday season. The analyst adds that Dick's Sporting Goods will benefit from “compelling doorbusters” being offered by

,

and

The North Face brand.