Which of the following scenarios would indicate that a nation's economy is entering the recovery phase of the business cycle?

after sales figures increase for several months, economic data indicates that retailers are hiring new workers to satisfy increased demand.

after several months of declining sales, sale levels reach an all-time low.

after several months of declining sales levels, higher retail sales are recorded for three months in a row.

after a promising holiday season, retail sales in the nation begin to decline during the spring.