101.   Philip Shaw, chief economist at Investec bank, said manufacturers were finding it harder to sell abroad, while British consumers continued to buy imported goods.

102.   A spokesman for the association said sales of imported autos were squeezed as consumers continued to tighten their purse strings because of the bleak economic outlook.

103.   Analysts said that could be a drag on the economy in upcoming months if consumer spending continues to level off.

104.   Analysts said the big increases may foretell a cut in production if consumer spending continues to ease.

105.   Analysts said the inventory buildups could lead to reduced production if consumer spending continues to slow.

106.   As Filipino consumers continue to face financial difficulties brought by the currency turmoil, sales of major household appliances dropped at the start of the year.

107.   Because consumers continued spending throughout the downturn, economists do not expect a surge in consumer spending to support a recovery.

108.   But economists noted that consumers continue to view the current situation in relatively favorable terms, with their doubts focused on the future.

109.   But it said German consumers are continuing to hold back on spending and companies have shown little interest in capital investment.

110.   Consumers continue to be pessimistic about the outlook over the next six months, the Conference Board said.