Coupons/ Rebates/ Pricing

NEW YORK — Any hope that consumer spending will improve may be dampered by predictions of rising gas prices. 

Nielsen predicts that in the United States, Nielsen noted, households could be paying an extra $52.50 with a 50-cent increase in gas prices, $105 with a $1 increase and $210 if prices jump up $2, prompting consumers to tighten their wallets. This will mirror historic trends, which include increased trip compression, more value-conscious shopping alternatives and increased use of coupons, Nielsen said.

NEW YORK — A report released by payment system provider ACI Worldwide found that many retail loyalty programs leave consumers feeling underappreciated and many consumers are enrolled in a program they don’t completely understand.

New York City -- A report released Tuesday by payment system provider ACI Worldwide found that many retail loyalty programs leave consumers feeling underappreciated and many consumers are enrolled in a program they don’t completely understand.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. -- Sears Holdings announced that it has been named the 2011 Energy Star Partner of the Year (Product Retailer Category) by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This is the second year running that Sears Holdings has been awarded this honor for empowering its customers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and through its numerous initiatives focusing on educating customers about energy-efficient products.

WASHINGTON -- The National Retail Federation said legislation introduced today to delay swipe fee reform scheduled to go into effect this summer would block retailers from giving discounts to consumers who use debit cards and would cost merchants and the public more than $1 billion per month.

True Value has announced the introduction of a 2-in-1 -- paint plus primer -- paint called EasyCare Platinum. The new paint promises a one-coat solution to painting projects because it eliminates the need for a primer.

EasyCare Platinum will be available in all the colors offered in the Chicago co-op’s EasyCare line, including Flat Enamel, Satin and Semi-Gloss finishes. EasyCare Platinum is mildew-resistant and backed by a lifetime warranty.

New York City -- The Arkansas Senate voted Thursday to require many out-of-state online retailers to collect sales taxes the same way in-state stores do, a move that is pitting Wal-Mart Stores against online stores and anti-tax activists, the Associated Press reported.

Product assortments have been restored, feature displays are back in most store aisles, and now Walmart is looking to restore sales growth with a new ad campaign beginning next month that reacquaints shoppers with the company’s core value proposition.