• by Sarah Mahoney  @mahoney_sarah, April 12, 2011

The recession may be over, but the majority of consumers--52%--say it doesn't feel that way, according to Deloitte's latest consumer survey. And they're worried about rough seas ahead, too, with 71% anticipating that higher gas prices will affect their ability to spend in the coming months.

"This is a very deliberate, calculating consumer," Ellen Basilico, a partner in Deloitte's retail practice, tells Marketing Daily. "And they are still focused on building their balance sheet. For example, of those getting a tax refund, 55% say they plan to pay down debt, and 46% intend to pay bills. As they're getting cash, their first inclination isn't to spend it."

Inflation is definitely on their radar, says the San Francisco-based expert. In addition to concerns about energy prices, 47% are worried about higher medical costs. And--in a key finding for stores-- while they've been checking out new merchandise, 53% say products seem pricier. Just 27% of consumers say stores are offering more value for their money, down from 45% who said so at this time last year. And 54% say stores seem to have less sales help on hand. "They're watchful of inflation, and keeping a close eye on prices," she says.