Ask Matt: Are any retailers bucking the pain?

Q: Are any retailers bucking the pain?

A: It’s a tough time to be a retailer - unless you’re a discounter.

Most of the major department store-based retailers, including Macy’s (M) and Nordstrom (JWN) have reported disappointing results and are facing a downward trajectory in business. But there are outliers - even those that predominantly sell apparel - including the discounters like TJX (TJX). Shares of the company, best known for its T. J. Maxx stores, are up more than 12% over the past year as profit continues to grow. The company Tuesday reported an adjusted quarterly profit of 76 cents a share, which beat expectations by 7%, says S&P Global Market Intelligence. And unlike other retailers seeing their bottom lines contract, TJX’ adjusted quarterly profit rose more than 10% from the same period a year ago. It’s not cost cutting either, as revenue during the same period added roughly 10%. Shares of TJX added 40 cents, or 0.5%, to $75.59 on the news. Another key player in the discount apparel industry, Ross Stores (ROST), is also an exception to the retail malaise. Analysts expect the company to report adjusted quarterly profit of 73 cents a share which would be a 9% increase from a year ago. Consumers are willing to spend, but they want a deal.

Paste BN markets reporter Matt Krantz answers a different reader question every weekday. To submit a question, e-mail Matt at mkrantz@usatoday.com or on Twitter @mattkrantz.