STORY: :: Survey shows back-to-school
spending in the U.S. will stay muted
:: Deloitte says families are dialling back
on expensive electronics this year
:: and retailers are launching
back-to-school deals earlier than usual
:: Its survey shows shoppers are expected to spend
about $586 per student in kindergarten to 12th grade
:: compared to about $597 per student in 2023
:: Middle-income and low-income families
are both expected to cut spending this year
:: Higher-income families with annual incomes over $100,000
:: are expected to increase average spending by 5% to $721 per child
:: Walmart, Target and Shein started
back-to-school deals in the first week of July
:: to get a jump on Amazon and its Prime Day event
:: While middle-income families are eyeing
value and willing to shop for private labels
:: Deloitte said over two-thirds of parents said they
may sacrifice brand loyalty if prices are too expensive