It seems that right now, in this moment in time, all of America is anxious.
We are anxious about our jobs, we worry about our bills, and we always have money on the mind.
This is a given.
With the devastating effects of the recession still circulating, the ways in which consumers are changing are painfully obvious.
Based on consumer reports and economic data, most Americans are turning to other alternatives.
For example, less people are using credit and more are using cash.
Credit card spending dropped very sharply in the beginning of 2009 while Americans were trying to pay down some debt and adjust to their lower credit card limits.
But that doesn't mean that spending went down.
With the information at hand, it is suggested that more people are paying in cash.
It makes sense; nobody wants to pay 18% interest on some socks and underwear.
Another shift in American behavior is a greater sense of suspicion.
With banks going under, ruining the economy, with Stock prices surging, and jobs disappearing, most people are on edge right now.
Needless to say, the past few years have been one big let down.
Records show that American confidence in banks, big business, and other pillars of establishment are at an all time low.
Because of these circumstances, there has been less brand loyalty.
Millions of American consumers have traded down to store brands and most of them plan to stick with them.
To some people, the quality of lower priced products is better than expected.
Along with that, people now believe more than ever that "smaller is better.
" All over the nation consumers are buying smaller portions, smaller houses and cars, and sticking to local community based services.
Another widespread trend in American consumerism is the boycotting of window shopping.
It's common sense to know that when you browse, you buy, and when you buy you pay.
People don't want to pay big if they don't make it big.
Consumers all over the world are avoiding unnecessary trips to the mall, and only buy with frugality.
When it comes to groceries, consumers are going back to the basics, especially families.
They are also gardening more and keeping waste to a minimum.
We are anxious about our jobs, we worry about our bills, and we always have money on the mind.
This is a given.
With the devastating effects of the recession still circulating, the ways in which consumers are changing are painfully obvious.
Based on consumer reports and economic data, most Americans are turning to other alternatives.
For example, less people are using credit and more are using cash.
Credit card spending dropped very sharply in the beginning of 2009 while Americans were trying to pay down some debt and adjust to their lower credit card limits.
But that doesn't mean that spending went down.
With the information at hand, it is suggested that more people are paying in cash.
It makes sense; nobody wants to pay 18% interest on some socks and underwear.
Another shift in American behavior is a greater sense of suspicion.
With banks going under, ruining the economy, with Stock prices surging, and jobs disappearing, most people are on edge right now.
Needless to say, the past few years have been one big let down.
Records show that American confidence in banks, big business, and other pillars of establishment are at an all time low.
Because of these circumstances, there has been less brand loyalty.
Millions of American consumers have traded down to store brands and most of them plan to stick with them.
To some people, the quality of lower priced products is better than expected.
Along with that, people now believe more than ever that "smaller is better.
" All over the nation consumers are buying smaller portions, smaller houses and cars, and sticking to local community based services.
Another widespread trend in American consumerism is the boycotting of window shopping.
It's common sense to know that when you browse, you buy, and when you buy you pay.
People don't want to pay big if they don't make it big.
Consumers all over the world are avoiding unnecessary trips to the mall, and only buy with frugality.
When it comes to groceries, consumers are going back to the basics, especially families.
They are also gardening more and keeping waste to a minimum.