41.   Despite the general economic sluggishness, British consumers have continued to spend, and many retailers have been direct beneficiaries.

42.   Debt-burdened consumers continued to favor discount stores in May.

43.   During the quarter, consumer spending continued to drive the economy as U.S. personal income rose.

44.   Economists expect exports to continue increasing this year because U.S. consumers continue to demand more Japanese cars, computers and home electronics.

45.   Even as inflation accelerates at a slower pace, consumers continue to spend.

46.   General Motors and Ford said auto sales slipped less than had been expected in March, indicating that consumers continue to spend into the economic slowdown.

47.   He said Chevron had been gaining market share despite having relatively high prices and that consumers continued to buy gas-guzzling sport utility vehicles.

48.   If consumers continue to keep spending under wraps, manufacturers may have trouble generating new orders, forcing them to cut production and prices to move growing inventories.

49.   If consumer spending continues to surge, though, the pause may not last long.

50.   In addition, some also had difficulty in returning an item, and consumers continue to have worries about giving an on-line retailer a credit card number.