Economy has shoppers cutting back on spending

KIMBERLY BELLAMY

A Christmas without a tree, lights, or bows was the kind of holiday Juanita Royal-Burgess of Princeville was anticipating until she found decorations within her price range on Black Friday.

"I wasn't going to decorate this year, but I caught sales on trees and ornaments," she said.

Royal-Burgess is facing the same circumstances as others who are cutting back on spending during the holidays due to the economy.

The National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that the economy will effect 65.3 percent or two-thirds of Americans this year. The average amount spent this holiday season is expected to drop by 3.2 percent from $705.01 to $682.74.

NRF predicts the most popular way shoppers will reduce the amount of money coming out of their pockets is by spending less, whether it be by looking for the best sales, using coupons and reusing decorations.

"I look for deals ... I always look for deals, and there are certain stores I don't go in like the higher price stores, even if they have 20 percent off," Royal-Burgess said.

Other Tarboro shoppers are using the same tactics to shrink cost during the holidays.

"I'm going to cut back on every corner I possibly can," said Martena Richardson, Sara Lee employee who was shopping in Dollar General on Monday.

"I love a clearance rack," said Ruby Boykin of Pinetops.

Linda Smith of Pinetops, who is on a set income said she definitely plans to reduce her spending this year.

"On Social Security, you can only do so much."

Factors like convenience, customer service, selection and quality were low on the list in the NRF survey, but ranked high for Richardson.

"I still make sure I get the same quality items for my children, but I'm going to be looking in the sales papers," she said.

Alternative gifts are a way that shoppers are coping with the tough economy during the holidays this year.

Richardson said that her family draws names for her children, nieces and nephews so that everyone will get something.

"We're going to make gifts because I do crafting or get people things after Christmas," Royal-Burgess said.

Others are skipping going in stores all together and giving loved ones money for gifts.

"It has affected me a little, but not as much as some because I'm retired," said Janie Laws of Tarboro.

"Due to the fact that all of my children and grandchildren are grown, I don't have to go out for wrapped gifts," Laws said.

The economy is impacting where people will be able to spend their holiday.

NRF reported that 28.6 percent of Americans will travel less or not at all over the holidays.

"I normally do traveling, and go see my family in Maryland, but I'm staying home," Royal-Burgess said.

The NRF survey reflects a poll of 8,431 consumers, with a 1 percent plus or minus margin of error.