Record high fuel prices, soaring commodities costs, and declining consumer confidence have changed the way U.S. consumers shop, according to a recent Nielsen consumer survey.  
Results from the survey indicate that 63% of U.S. consumers have reduced their household spending this year. 
The findings also suggest that consumers will continue to combine shopping trips, eat at home, and seek out at-home entertainment.

High gas prices are forcing Consumers to combine shopping trips, eat out less, and stay home more, according to research released Thursday by Nielsen.
In addition, nearly two-thirds (63%) of consumers are compensating for rising gas prices by reducing their spending, Nielsen found. That percentage increased by 18 points since June 2007 — and by 14 points in the last six months alone.
“While discretionary spending is likely to be a challenge for most low and middle income shoppers, even affluent consumers are looking for ways to make their dollars go further,” …