Walmart

Read much consumer research and you start to wonder whether people are passing the time during the recession by compiling lists of all the things they’ve stopped buying.

A recent study by an independent third party has found that Sam’s Club saves consumers an average of 30.4 percent or about $30 for every $100 spent on some of the most often purchased product categories for home and personal use, compared with grocery and specialty retailers.

Available only at Walmart stores nationwide for a limited time, the MY M&M’S KISS Blend features the distinctively made-up mugs of the venerable rock band on colorful customized M&M’S Chocolate Candies.

Since the early days of the Internet, companies have tried to capitalize on online grocery. Some have failed, some have held their own, but none have revolutionized the way consumers think about shopping for groceries.

Because of limited inventories and commercial supplies of liquid Tamiflu®, over 4,000 Walmart and Sam’s Club pharmacies across the United States are converting the available capsules to liquid form.

In an industry where retailers are dramatically changing their go-to-market strategy by trying to do more with less -- simplifying their stores and revamping the center store -- are store brands exempt from consideration?

Pricing these days is a balancing act. Cash-strapped consumers are pinching every penny and comparing prices across formats, forfeiting convenience for savings.

The home front has become the battlefront in the consumer’s war against shrinking incomes and budgets. Home-cooked meals have replaced restaurant dining.