Consumers 'too guilty' to shop

Date: 31st March 2010

Small retailers in the UK could be set to suffer a decline in business activity due to changes in consumer attitudes, according to new research.

A recently-published study from price comparison website uSwitch.com has revealed that a number of consumers admit that making purchases in the post-recession climate leaves them with feelings of guilt.

As a result, the firm said that around £32 million worth of purchases are being returned.

Results from the study also show that 59 per cent of respondents said they now get no pleasure from a trip to the high street.

Ann Robinson, director of consumer policy at uSwitch.com, said: "Financial constraints, feelings of guilt and a return to frugality mean that consumers are no longer in thrall to the High Street.

"The recession has left a legacy of guilty shoppers in its wake and as a result the British love affair with retail therapy is beginning to pale."