21.   He said weak consumer demand and rising paper prices trimmed profits in domestic operations.

22.   High-technology issues slumped, as investors expressed concern for weak consumer demand during the Christmas season.

23.   Hog and pork belly futures plunged the exchange-imposed daily limit on concern that supplies are increasing at a time of weak consumer demand.

24.   Hog futures were little changed as weak consumer and meatpacker demand offset tight supplies.

25.   In a sign that retailers continue to struggle, Tandy Corp. said it would close two of its super-size Incredible Universe electronic stores, because of weak consumer traffic.

26.   In CHICAGO, cattle futures were little changed as weak consumer demand for beef offset expectations that fewer animals will be available for slaughter next year.

27.   In Germany, though, weak consumer demand means many retailers are having to sustain higher costs themselves.

28.   In the U.S. especially, weak consumer confidence and retail sales point to lower rates, analysts said.

29.   It blames weak consumer confidence on soaring Germany unemployment.

30.   It blamed weak consumer confidence, increased taxes and soaring unemployment for the decline.