consumer trends

Sayville businesses eye First Friday plan to boost sales

More than a dozen specialty shops line the long block on Sayville's South Main Street between Railroad Avenue and Collins Avenue. Eleanor Cheslak says the half-mile stretch is one of the village's best-kept secrets.She and... more »

From wall street to main street

As people try to figure out what a government bailout of financial institutions means in their own lives, there are still strong differences of opinion about whether it's needed.Disputes about whether the government or free... more »

Politicians fight to save Main Street

Purcellville, VA — The shop on Main Street, with its neatly stacked bottles, gourmet cheeses and glass case full of fancy chocolates, will soon be closing for business.People just are not interested in excesses these... more »

Niche retailers hold out hope for their bottom lines

Some local retailers are shrugging off congressional dithering on a finance-sector aid package and the resultant stock market fall-off that's unnerved everyday American shoppers."Consumers are starting to spend much more cautiously," said Michael Moran, chief... more »

When it’s tough the brave thrive

England — Running a business is in Mark Fletcher's blood. His mother owned a series of cafes and there is a long family tradition of running shops in the East End of London.So when Mark,... more »

Retailers face dire holidays forecast

It's beginning to look a lot like a terrible Christmas season.Retail sales in October through December are expected to grow a meager 1.5 percent over last year, the weakest in 17 years, as shoppers pressured... more »

When the tourists leave town …

The winter rains don't just come on the Oregon Coast — they pour and don't stop for tourists, construction workers, house painters or road crews.For many shop owners waiting for the next customer to walk... more »

Destined for success: Boutique offers a little bit of everything

Fayetteville, NC — Want to know what is supposed to bring good luck and money in these troubled economic times?Lil Tina Carter, owner of The Destiny Jade Gift Boutique, has some suggestions.Carter and her daughter-in-law,... more »