Shoppers are still wary of buying big-ticket items in the post-Sept. 11 recession, according to a Harris Interactive poll conducted for DVC Worldwide, Morristown, NJ.
Conducted in May as a follow-up to polls conducted last fall, the survey found that 23 percent of consumers are less likely to shop for a new car despite incentives. That’s slightly more optimistic than the 26 percent making that claim last November. Plans to buy “considered purchase” items like electronics and furniture are still down as well, but two-thirds of respondents (67%) say they’re likely to buy personal-care items to pamper themselves.
Meanwhile, one-third of respondents (32%) remain wary of air travel; in November, 40 percent said they were steering clear of planes. Fifteen percent say they’re inclined to stay in a hotel; that’s up from 10 percent in November.
Respondents say they’re just as likely to go to the movies or entertain friends at home as they were before the attacks; one-fifth are more likely to donate to a charity.
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