Content about Shopping

Despite concerns about the economy and rising household expenses, nearly three out of five (59%) consumers will put aside economic worries and spend the same or more this holiday season, according to Deloitte’s 26th annual survey of holiday spending intentions and trends. While this is a slight decline from 2010, it represents an eight-percentage point increase from 2009.

Las Vegas — The retail panel discussion started with customer service and advanced to strategic planning. From there, it detoured at automatic doors — apparently still a novelty in rural Texas — and finished with a somewhat optimistic economic forecast. 


A study of consumer shopping habits in the tools and storage categories indicates a willingness to trade advice from knowledgeable staff for a wider assortment of goods. These were the conclusions from a survey conducted this month by The NPD Group, a market research firm based in Port Washington, N.Y.

Eighty-four percent of respondents indicated they prefer purchasing storage/organization and tool products at larger stores with many offerings, rather than at smaller stores with consultative sales staff, but limited stock.