Are Canadians currently spending less because of higher gas prices?
1 November 2005 Synovate poll reveals that gas prices are negatively affecting consumer behavior TORONTO, ONTARIO — A vast majority of Canadians have changed their consumer habits because of higher gas prices. According to a new survey by leading global market research firm Synovate, 82% of respondents who own or lease a vehicle have taken some action as a result of the recent increase in gas prices. The top action taken was “filling up gas when I see a lower price even if the tank is not empty,” according to the Synovate e.Nation poll. Consumers also indicated that they “Go shopping less frequently” and have “Cut down on ‘non-essential’ activities such as entertainment, dining out, etc.” Of importance for retailers, 22% of those polled claim to be checking store flyers for sale items more frequently. “Another interesting finding was that the impact on consumer behavior is greater outside big cities,” said Robin Brown, Senior Vice President, Synovate Canada. Brown attributes this behav
