Industry Eye: New! Exclusive Abacus Consumer Co-op Data

The first half of the second quarter of 2008 saw a rebound, which may be attributed in part to one-time tax rebate checks from the economic stimulus plan and annual tax returns. The momentum quickly dissipated in June, however, and after a slight upturn in July, it continued to steadily decline through August as high prices for gas and food put a pinch on consumer spending.