consumer trends

Thousands hit Houston-area stores on tax-free weekend

While clouds kept temperatures relatively low on Saturday, shoppers' tempers were hot as they flocked to stores during Texas' annual sales tax holiday weekend. Scarce parking and long lines plagued some retailers, making shoppers grumpy... more »

‘Made in Canada’ gains cachet

High oil prices and increased environmental awareness are combining to change our shopping habits and the origin of goods available in stores. Not only are Canadian-made goods more popular and more affordable, but there's some... more »

Tax-free shopping starts Sunday

Farmington, CT -- With the struggling economy, the state's annual week-long sales tax holiday has never been more welcome.The back to school shopping frenzy is well underway at Westfarms Mall and every other mall across... more »

Retail sales drop for first time in 5 months

Washington—Retail sales fell in July, the weakest performance in five months, as shoppers shunned autos and other big ticket items.The Commerce Department reported Wednesday that retail sales dipped 0.1 percent last month when a variety... more »

Drop in gas prices could boost back to school sales

Today, summer travel is getting a little easier with gas prices falling nearly 15-cents a gallon in two weeks to $3.85. But consumers are still showing a reluctance to spend. We're seeing the effects of... more »

Retailers amp up promotions for back-to-school season

New York — Retailers preparing for a difficult back-to-school season are getting creative in their attempts to entice shoppers into the stores -- aggressively introducing new products, slashing prices and amping up marketing in the... more »

Save taxes on most clothing, shoes

Austin -- Edna Antillon plans to do some back-to-school shopping for her two daughters this weekend to take advantage of the state's tax-free holiday, but with her small income and increasing gas expenses, she said... more »

Rising prices stifle impact of stimulus payments

Washington—Rising prices, falling home values, stagnant wages and tight credit. It's a potent combination that has struck the American consumer hard.In June, the second biggest rise in prices in nearly three decades muted the impact... more »