saxman - 12:55 pm on Jun 25, 2008 (gmt 0)

I have noticed the same as most here, but there are exceptions. My business is IT, and we have seen great growth the entire year. The reason for this is becasue people are shopping online more to avoid the ever-increasing gas prices. This bids well for people like me a as we have companies that recognize that they need to do more web advertising, and even companies that have established websites are coming to me for Search Engine Optimization and Google Adwords advice and services. It's been great for business, but the downside is that it an added cost for retailers and with the way the economy is today that cost is then past on to consumers which only fustrates them even more. Times are tough. I still think that we haven't seen the bottom of the barrell yet. The best thing to do is cater to your consumer demographics basic needs and don't worry about the frivolous right now. Stick to your bread and butter and undercut the competition in your area (I know, Thanks Wally World).

Good Luck everyone - Saxman