AAA Survey Shows Shopping Spirit Still Alive, Despite Economic Woes

TAMPA, Fla. (Nov. 26)—According to a release from AAA, despite the current state of the economy, 53 percent of consumers have already begun their holiday shopping, illustrates the AAA Show Your Card and Save (SYCS) Holiday survey. Even though 62 percent of shoppers say they expect to spend less this year on holiday gifts compared to what they spent last year, they’re still spending money.

“The weakened economy has shoppers decidedly spending less on gifts this holiday season, but the gift-giving spirit is still strong,” said Belinda Dabrowski, managing director of member benefits, AAA Auto Club South. “However, more shoppers than ever will take advantage of the convenience, flexibility and competitive deals offered online.“

Consumers can use the Internet to their advantage for holiday shopping this season to find the some of the best offers and promotions. The Internet will influence 33.6 percent of holiday purchases, up from 30.2 percent last year and 28.9 percent in 2006, according to the National Retail Federation.

In the SYCS survey, shoppers said the top three reasons for shopping online versus in a store are: convenience, flexibility, and finding the lowest price.

For the full survey, please visit: http://www.aaasouth.com/survey/holiday_shopping.ppt

SYCS Holiday Shopping Tips:

- Take advantage of discounts and check with any clubs or associations of which you’re a member to see if you get discounts at various retailers.

- When shopping online, look for special offers or dates from retailers when free shipping may be available.

- Check store circulars for any in-store sales or coupons.

- Sort through junk mail because many retailers are sending bonus coupons and gift cards in the mail.

- Consider taking one retailers circular to another retailer and ask for competitive pricing.

- If you want to purchase an item in a store but forgot the coupon, ask if you can bring the coupon back for the adjusted price.

AAA’s Show Your Card and Save program offers savings and discounts at more than 160,000 locations worldwide. Members will find discounted holiday gifts both online and at popular retailers including Barnes & Noble.com, Dell, Payless Shoe Source, Target.com and Blue Nile this holiday season. Last year, the program saved shoppers nearly $1.2 billion; an average of $97.91 per member.