Retail is not coming back in 2021, and it's not even close.

Yes, it's back somewhat, but not like before. I just did some research yesterday on retail stores in the Cleveland, Ohio area (Nordstrom's, Marshall's, Nordstrom Rack, etc).

Here's what I found from our research/visits:

I think Retail may struggle to hit its 12% 2021 growth targets. Retail is not back. It's changed - and it's worse.

• Inventory is off at LEAST 20% from pre-pandemic levels. That is the baseline.

• Full-size runs are a thing of the past. The watchword from the staff was "if you like this, we can order it for you." Most styles had only 1-2 sizes in the run. What's the point in being in a store if you can't try it on?

• Speaking of trying on - half of the dressing rooms were still closed. In some stores, all dressing rooms were closed.

• Some entire sections of departments had only 1-2 items IN THE WHOLE AREA. Where are the items? It's May!

• And the inventory that was there. In full Nordstrom's casual ruled the day. Forget about buying designer clothing. Even contemporary fashion brands are squeezed and pushed into a smaller space. Casual, sweats, flip flops, and jeans as far as the eye can see.

• Staffing is limited/overworked.

What are you seeing?