Grocery Sales Fall

The average American spent 7% less each month on groceries and $94.60 on a routine trip, compared to $98.70 in 2010, according to Acosta Sales & Marketing's consumer survey. Blame higher oil prices, at least in part. The survey found that the average shopper will make fewer grocery trips when the price of gas reaches $3.70 per gallon -- a price that's only starting to be in reach at the pump.

Households earning less than $75,000 reduced budgets 10% or more, while higher income shoppers spent up to 34% more, since many remain loyal to brands tied to higher premiums this year. About 53% of Americans paid more attention to what they buy at the grocery store, 43% bought less food, 41% took advantage of sales/coupons, and 22% shopped at less expensive stores.