• by Jack Loechner , Staff Writer @mp_research, September 16, 2003

Consumer Confidence Highest To Date

The recent BIGresearch release of their monthly Consumer Intentions & Actions Survey speaks to the attitudes about the economy by saying that it looks like we could be on the road to recovery. Consumer confidence is up slightly...39.2% for September v. August's 38.6%, which is the highest reading for 2003. And consumers are more optimistic about the economy - those who say "under 6 months" for recovery rose from 8.9% in August to 10.2%, the highest reading for 2003.

Consumers more than ever are focusing on needs over wants...60.3% say so v. 58.2% in August. Looks like deep discounts from retailers will have to entice consumers to re-enter their stores.

Practical consumers are conservative consumers when it comes to personal finances. Pay down debt is again the #1 financial plan, but in September, consumers become more likely to increase savings, pay with cash more often, and decrease overall spending. Consumers are practical, but that doesn't mean they can't have a little fun every once in a while. In September, consumers became slightly less likely to defer purchases on going out to eat and entertainment

When asked about spending plans for the December Holiday Season, even though 21% said "it's too early to know", 7% said they will spend more, 38% said same, 31% said less. The BIGresearch data says that those planning to spend less are more likely to be middle-aged (35-54) adults with families who own their home. Those planning to spend more are more likely to be younger (18-44) with families and have more children in the household.

90 day outlook is mixed for categories this month as consumers look toward the future, according to the BIGresearch diffusion index.

Retail Merchandise Categories - 90 Day Outlook

Children's	DOWN*
Toys and Games	UP
Women's Dress	UP
CDs/DVDs/Videos/Books	UP
Women's Casual	UP
Electronics	DOWN
Men's Dress	UP
Groceries	UP
Men's Casual	FLAT
Home Improvement	DOWN
Shoes	DOWN
Lawn & Garden	DOWN
HBA	UP
Home Furniture	DOWN
Dining out	DOWN
Decorative Home Furnishings	DOWN
Sporting Goods	UP

Source: BIGresearch

*DOWN/UP/FLAT = Compared to September

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