consumer trends

Fearing a holiday letdown, retailers shifting strategies

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at some of the nation's stores, as retailers struggle to find ways to make shoppers forget about their battered 401(k) plans. Neiman Marcus' trees have been sparkling... more »

Shops bid historic area goodbye

As red banners with Chinese writing hung from a turquoise-colored shelf at the Kong Sun Co., owner Carol Sezto reflected on her goal of selling her Chinatown gift shop business. So far, no serious buyer... more »

Wringing out some sales

Beleaguered merchants are trying to pry open the wallets of shell-shocked consumers with promotions so aggressive that it feels like the holidays have come two months early. The flurry of deals has intensified as the... more »

Holidays will be a big test for stores

Marie Clifford, owner of a gift shop at Westroads Mall, has heard the dire financial projections for retailers. But people so far still are buying, she said.Maybe it's an act of rebellion by consumers who... more »

Holiday sales barely predicted to rise; local retailers predict sales will be OK

Beaumont, TX — Christmas has arrived at GiGi's, A Children's Boutique, on Dowlen Road. And Halloween still is four Fridays away. Owners Cara Kinchen and Suzette Smith already have received a shipment of Christmas clothes,... more »

Full of Doubts, U.S. Shoppers Cut Spending

Cowed by the financial crisis, American consumers are pulling back on their spending, all but guaranteeing that the economic situation will get worse before it gets better.In response to the falling value of their homes... more »

Christmas sales begin

Muncie, Indiana -- The calendar says October, but Christmas is here.Stephanie Richards has the trees, wreaths, garland and glitter to prove it.Standing in the back room of her store, Country Charm Christmas, at Muncie Mall,... more »

A final bow

The curtain is falling on one of the last retail stores on Capitol Square. After 23 years, the Ohio Theatre Gift Shop will close for good at the end of the month -- a victim... more »