I'm looking for a store base forecasting model or formula specific to
retail companies.  I would like to forecast a retailer's store base
(number of stores) in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 based on sales, store,
and relevant financial data for 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004. 
Though retailers often announce their plans to open or close a certain
number of stores, I am curious whether there exists an accurate model
that can help me assess the likelihood that a retailer will meet its
stated store-opening goals.  I imagine such a model or formula would
consider cash flow, long-term and short-term debt, and other
publicly-available financial data.

If you do find such a formula, I would appreciate as much explanation
as is available, as well as any information on the model's
reliability.

Please do not hesitate to ask for clarification.