Consumer attitudes: good news, bad news. (News Front).

* Last November, WSL Strategic Retail's Pulse survey reported on consumers' fears about job security, war, terrorism and the economy. Six months later, there is good news and bad news, according to the market research company. Forty-four percent of consumers remain optimistic that their households' financial situation will improve during the coming year, the same level of optimism expressed last November, WSL executives said. But 22% fewer consumers feel their financial situation has actually improved during the past year, a significant decline from last fall, when 45% felt their financial situation had improved during the year.

However, with uncertainties pertaining to war behind them, it seems that some consumers are ready to resume spending. Last fall, 49% of those polled said they were browsing more and buying less; this year's report confirms that number is down to 35%. Additionally, many consumers are no longer putting off major purchases, with only 27% saying they will postpone a purchase, as opposed to last year's 40%.

The How America Shops Everyday Pulse report was based on a national internet survey of 1,161 consumers, conducted May 5. More info: www.wslstrategicretail.com.