d 6.3 percent near the end of 1991. Consumer prices in Germany in 1993 have risen 3.9 percent, following a 3.8 increase in 1992. Wage levels in 1993 are up 5.8 percent over 1992 levels, which, in turn, were 5.4 percent above 1991 levels.
On balance, the status of the German economy is not one to inspire consumer confidence. The status of the economy, thus, is not conducive to non essential lingerie purchases. Lingerie purchases in Germany have approximated US$950 million annually over the past three years (Statisches bundesamt, 1993, p. 67; Statisches bundesamt, 1992, p. 66; Statisches bundesamt, 1991, p. 66). Annual data for the 1991 1993 period are presented in Table 1, which may be found beginning on page 6, while annual data for the 1986 1990 period are presented in Table 2, which may be found beginning on page 8.
Gross domestic product in Italy declined 0.6 percent in 1993 from 1992 levels (Economic and financial, 1993, p. 119). This decline followed an anemic growth of 1.5 perce
...