Shares of retailers and other consumer companies gave back some of their recent gains, but there were some bright spots in the sector after relatively strong jobs data and a rebound in profit for some companies particularly hard hit by the pandemic.
Hotelier Marriott International returned to profitability in the latest quarter as it halved its spending and travel demand improved from lows earlier in the pandemic.
Hershey said it gained ground in the U.S. candy market as it adapted to changing consumer behavior during the coronavirus pandemic, in part by making more chocolate bars for s'mores.
Struggling beauty giant Coty swung back to profitability despite a sharp decrease in sales, reflecting the pandemic-induced pain for retail partners.
NPC International, the largest franchisee of Wendy's and Pizza Hut restaurants, has a planned deal to sell itself out of bankruptcy to fellow franchisee giant Flynn Restaurant Group, The Wall Street Journal reported.
Write to Rob Curran at rob.curran@dowjones.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
11-06-20 1801ET
