Recession prompts more frugal habits

More than a third of us has learned what we can "do without" because of the recession.

According to a 'Feeling the Pinch' report from An Bord Bia, the same proportion of the population now thinks twice before making even small purchases and people are in general more likely to do their homework on a product before making a purchase.

Many consumers also say they will maintain their more frugal habits even if their financial situation improves.

An Bord Bia has warned businesses that they will have to think more intelligently to attract customers in the future.