A scary economy is frightening more people into spending less this Halloween.

   That's according to a new survey by the National Retail Federation, which says nearly one-third of consumers say the economy is affecting their Halloween spending.

   Of those surveyed, 88-percent say they plan to spend less this year.

   The NRF says total sales are expected to drop by more than $1-billion from 2008 spending.

   Federation spokeswoman Kathy Grannis tells "USA Today" many people plan to take the less-expensive road and either design their own costume or use last year's.

   She says the retail group expects spending on all things relating to Halloween to drop by about 15-percent to an average of just over $56-per person.

   Costume retailers say they're seeing changes in buying habits as well.

   Brad Butler, CEO of HalloweenExpress.com, says consumers are being more cautious and taking more time to make their purchases this year.

   He says his stores have had to offer more coupons this year to entice shoppers.


   (Copyright 2009 by VERTEXNews/Newsroom Solutions)