I think overall sales will be higher than some might think. Maybe not back to crazy level because the big ticket items will be fewer and far between.
However I think ‘recession fatigue’ has set in a bit and the primordial urge to shop is too strong to deny again this year.
I’d expect what purchases are made to be more durable useful items like shoes, clothes for work/school (vs pure fashion), tools, things that people need. Probably fewer ‘trendy’ gifts.
Disclaimer: If I really knew what the unwashed masses were going to do, I’d have invested better to take advantage of that knowledge and be retired by now.
