The International Council of Shopping Centers-UBS sales tally of 52 retailers rose 4.1 percent in May, better than the 3.2 percent gain expected. The tally is based on sales at stores opened at least a year, known as same-store sales. Same-store sales are considered the best indicator of a retailer's health. May's sales pace is in line with the 4.2 percent gain averaged from January through April.

. Wal-Mart reported a 2.3 percent gain in same-store sales, below the expected a 2.9 percent gain.
. Target had a 5.7 percent gain in same-store sales, better than the 4.8 percent estimate.
. Nordstrom had a 7.8 percent gain in same-store sales, beating the 4.2 estimate.
. Federated had a same-store sales increase of 9.2 percent, better than the 5.3 percent forecast.
. Saks Inc. had a 1.1 percent gain in same-store sales, below the 2.6 percent estimate.
. Limited Brands had a 7 percent gain in same-store sales, exceeding the 5.3 percent gain anticipated.
. AnnTaylor's 12 percent gain in same-store sales exceeded the 6.1 percent projection from analysts.
. Gap had a 6 percent drop in same-store sales, worse than the 4.1 percent decline analysts forecast.
. Sharper Image suffered a 36 percent drop in same-store sales, worse than the 21.5 percent decline projected
. Abercrombie & Fitch had a 3 percent increase in same-store sales, in line with the 2.9 percent estimate.
. American Eagle Outfitters enjoyed an 11 percent gain in same-store sales,exceeding the 9.3 percent estimate.