Consumers Cautious for Back-to-School

Parents are expected to shop for back-to-school cautiously, reports research firm NPD Group Inc. The percent of consumers in the study who are expected to spend the same amount this year as last year is flat at 40 percent. The report also notes that consumers will be shopping later in the season. Those who will begin to shop by Aug. 1 declined by 3 percentage points to 35 percent; 60 percent plan to start by Sept. 1. As for intended purchases, school supplies lead the list, followed by apparel and footwear and electronics.