Some shoppers use coupons, hunt for deals, and avoid extras
US consumers are cutting back amid rising prices and economic uncertainty. Spending stagnated in the first half of 2025, and companies like Kroger, P&G, and Chipotle report that customers are buying less.
Even higher-income families are trading down, skipping vacations, and canceling subscriptions.
Fast food chains like Domino’s see more traffic due to promotions, while Chipotle sales drop. Inflation, tariffs, and stagnant wages are fueling anxiety.
Some shoppers use coupons, hunt for deals, and avoid extras.
A June survey by Empower found Americans spend nearly four hours daily thinking about money.
Executives say the “what the heck” purchase is gone, and US consumers now stick to essentials and value-driven choices.