WASHINGTON – Gas prices are expected to have little effect on how much families spend on back-to-school gear this year, industry experts say. Though shoppers may visit fewer stores, sales of electronics are likely to provide significant boosts.
The back-to-school season begins with store promotions in July, probably before many students have even started their required summer reading, and runs into September. It is the second-biggest shopping season of the year and serves as an important indicator of the holiday season to come.
Computers and printers have already become back-to-school staples, but this year iPods and videogame systems are being counted as “necessities.”
There will be some change in habits: Higher gasoline prices may mean more one-stop shopping as families stock up on notebooks, electronics and clothes all in one place, said Janet Hoffman, director of North American retail for Accenture. Nearly one-third of those surveyed by the consulting firm said they plan to shop at fewer stores because of rising gas prices.
That means Wal-Mart, Target and other discounters should benefit, Hoffman said.
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