New Survey Examines How West Coast Consumers Are Handling the Tough Economy...

Survey highlights:

• West Coast families have been hit hard by the economy, with one in four respondents personally affected by job loss or foreclosure and 40% of respondents knowing 2-5 people who have been similarly affected.
  
• The majority (55%) of consumers surveyed said grocery shopping has become more difficult when compared with last year.
  
• 22% of West Coast consumers are having difficulty or can no longer afford to feed their families as well as they want, due to the cost of groceries. 
  
• Despite the poor economy and rising food prices, 78% of consumers said that grocery shopping is something that they feel they can control, versus other economic factors. 
  
• 79% of those surveyed said they are now shopping smarter and feel a sense of accomplishment when they save. 36% said their family is eating healthier in this economy.
  
• 64% of respondents said they are eating at home at least one more night a week instead of going out.
  
• 88% of respondents agree that family meals provide a source of comfort.
  
• Despite the economy, most families (70%) will enjoy the same meals they always have over the holidays, without sacrificing quantity or the quality of foods prepared.