consumer trends

Small businesses battle big problems

Pittsburgh — Small business is risky business these days. Costs are rising, profits are shrinking and the ability of the big guys to keep prices relatively lower is drawing away customers. Things are so bad... more »

Alabama retail sales climb 9 percent

Recent numbers indicate that retail sales are on the upswing in Alabama and across the country. The Alabama Department of Revenue reported Thursday that sales tax collections in the state rose by more than 9... more »

Retail sales jump by largest amount in 6 months

Washington—Retail sales jumped by the largest amount in six months in May as 57 million economic stimulus payments helped offset the headwinds buffeting consumers.The Commerce Department reported Thursday that retail sales soared 1 percent last... more »

Businesses adapting new techniques to survive downturn

Claire Williams has heard the economic horror stories as they rippled far and wide through American life. She can even see a few firsthand from the Mary-Go-Round gift shop. But try as they might, the... more »

Retailers face hit as sentiment falls to new low

Consumer confidence has plummeted to an all-time low, sending retailers an ominous signal for the remainder of 2008, according to the British Retail Consortium. The Nielsen/BRC UK Consumer Confidence index has tumbled to 79, compared... more »

Retail Sales Probably Increased in May: U.S. Economy Preview

Bloomberg — Sales at U.S. retailers probably rose in May as Americans started spending tax rebate checks and record gas prices inflated service-station receipts, economists said before reports this week. Purchases rose 0.5 percent following... more »

Amherst’s Salzburg Square enjoying revitalization

Despite problems in the economy, business continues to thrive at Salzburg Square in Amherst. What was once considered a dying shopping center has added several new shops in the last 18 months. But the Austrian-themed... more »

Consumers battle recession, inflation

Washington — To fight off a recession, Congress had the brilliant idea of giving consumers $100 billion or so to spend this summer. The only thing was they didn't plan on gasoline going to $4... more »