However, recent drop in fuel prices during Back-to-School season could be welcome news to retailers

Franklin, TN - August 19, 2008 - The U.S. government has sent out $92 Billion in stimulus checks so far but the effects have been more than offset by higher consumer prices. In fact, 143.9% of that amount was swallowed up by higher fuel and food prices in the past year, according to recent research from IHL Group.

For the twelve months ending August 1st, consumer prices for fuel and food increased $132.4 Billion, and stimulus checks have been used for debt reduction and necessities instead of discretionary spending, according to recent analysis.

"Every sustained one-cent increase in fuel prices takes $1.7 Billion a year out of U.S. consumer's pockets for other spending," says Greg Buzek, president of IHL Group, an analyst firm and consultancy that serves retailers and technology vendors. "These are sales lost to non-fuel retailers, restaurants, auto dealers and other businesses due to the increase in fuel prices. Or put another way, sales lost to the retail economy in the past year due to a sustained rise in gas prices equates to the combined annual revenues for Kroger and Target."

According to IHL, the increase in fuel costs has been devastating for retailers, casual restaurants and auto dealers. However, things are beginning to look up for retailers as the drop in fuel prices over the past 45 days comes during the critical Back-To-School season.

"The timing is actually very good for retailers and should help Back-to-School sales by releasing over $3.4 Billion for consumers for non-fuel activities," added Buzek. "Those retailers that have adjusted their inventories and coordinated their marketing accordingly are best positioned to benefit."


About IHL Group

IHL Group is a global research and advisory firm headquartered in Franklin, Tenn., that provides market analysis and business consulting services for retailers and information technology companies that focus on the retail industry. For more information, see www.ihlservices.com, call 615-591-2955 or e-mail ihl@ihlservices.com.

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