Mall Traffic Improving?

According to an FBR analyst, things may be looking a bit brighter at malls these days.

Adrienne Tennant of Friedman Billings Ramsey & Co. said in a client note that consumers are hitting the malls nationwide, trying to find fashionable bargains as spring weather approaches.

"We remain optimistic that if the weather continues to break to spring-like temperatures, sales trends may pick up," she said. "We believe March is exceeding initial expectations."

Tennant said there is pent-up demand, especially in the teen sector. Traffic has improved, especially at teen retailers American Eagle Outfitters Inc. and Aeropostale Inc., she said.