American shoppers and diners closed out the summer without much sign of cutbacks—fresh evidence of how strong consumer spending has helped insulate the economy from a downturn.

The largest retail trade group in the United States says it expects consumers to spend more during the upcoming holiday season but the growth in sales to be slower than last year due to concerns over

The National Retail Federation anticipates up to $990 billion in holiday sales despite inflation-wary consumers.

The largest retail trade group in the United States said Tuesday that it expects consumers to spend more during the upcoming holiday shopping season but the growth in sales to be slower than last year due to concerns over persistent inflation and prices.

Despite an upcoming holiday season touched by multiple variables — from the uncertain economy to the presidential election — U.S. consumers are still expected to spend more this year, just at a rate slower than last,

I want the season earlier and the things that go with the season earlier,” one shopper said. “I want to enjoy it for as long as I can."