DALLAS, Nov 8, 2001/FW/ -- American consumers are spending like what the recent surveys say. The question is where are they spending their money?

As October retail sales come in, the discount retailers seem to be getting the lion's share of disposable income. Walmart Stores reported sales of $16.616 billion, an increase of 14.6% compared $14.503 billion during the same period last year.

Competitor Target stores saw a 12.8% increase ins same-store sales. The TJX Companies, which operates T.J. Maxx and Marshalls outlets, also saw sales up 12 percent over the same period last year.

Urban Outfitters' trendier, low-priced items were also a hit. Net sales for the quarter that ended October 31 were up 20 percent, to $92.9 million. Direct response and wholesale sales climbed 26 and 29 percent, respectively.

Also in keeping with reports that more Americans will stay at home and shop online than ever this holiday season, online designer outlet bluefly.com is doing a booming business lately. Net sales last month were up about 68 percent, to $2.7 million, from October 2000. Bluefly offers consumers discounts of up to 75 percent on apparel, accessories and home products from more than 300 designers including Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan and Prada.