PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. -- As meat and poultry companies continue tightening the reins on their businesses to become more efficient, consumers continue responding to tough economic times through their buying patterns. In July, 34% of consumers stated they would not change their purchase behavior; that is down from April when 42% said they would do nothing different, according to most recent monthly Fast Checks Study: Consumers Speak Out on the U.S. Economy from The NPD Group Inc.

"This eight-point drop represents billions of dollars in sales that are not being injected into the normal shopping sectors for consumers," said Marshal Cohen, chief industry analyst, The NPD Group Inc.

In July, 41% of consumers told the NPD Group that economic conditions would not affect where they shop. In April, that number was 44%. "This would suggest that we are starting to see signs that consumers are store and channel shifting," Mr. Cohen said, "and it represents a huge opportunity for many retailers. Now is the time of year to make those all important ‘introductions’ to new customers and make overtures to an established customer base. We will see which retailers know how to make new friends and hold on to their old ones."

Escalating gasoline and utility expenses continue taking their toll on consumers. The number of survey respondents saying they are putting more money toward paying their gasoline and utility bills was 66% in July and 65% in April. On the other hand, there hasn’t been much change in the number of survey respondents who say they are concerned about losing their jobs. That number has remained flat at 34%.

"This is a very important number to watch as it most directly reflects the state of the spending psyche of consumers," noted Mr. Cohen. "As long as they feel comfortable about their continued employment, they will continue to spend."