1.   But much more of it is due to consumer-goods firms having encouraged shoppers to buy on price by bombarding them with special offers.

2.   Ironically, retailers are encouraging shoppers to seek the bargains even as they defend against them.

3.   Smaller Valley shops, such as Record Trader in Reseda, and Heavy Rotation in Studio City, also encourage shoppers to try before they buy.

4.   Some malls are extending their shopping hours and encouraging shoppers to come early or late to avoid crowds.