You would have to be living under a rock not to know that consumers have turned off the freewheeling spending spigot.  Shoppers are focusing on “deals” and limiting their shopping basket to necessities.  Adjustments are being made across the economy as a result.  Here in the U.S. builders are replacing granite countertops with Formica, auto dealers sell cars with fewer options, and in the midst of reportedly weak back-to-school sales for retailers, consumers will tell you they are more conscious than ever of spending.