SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) - Holiday shoppers are getting an early start this week as Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday approach, but many are spending more cautiously due to rising prices and economic uncertainty.

Shoppers in the Chicago area are spending about 11% less than last year, according to consulting firm Deloitte. Many people are on tighter budgets and believe the economy will get worse next year.

“Oh totally, everything’s way more expensive but I mean you’ve got to get stuff for Christmas right?” said Shannon Stecz, a holiday shopper.

With higher prices on goods across the board, shoppers are putting in extra work to look for the best deals.

“They’re spirits may be bright, but their wallets are tight and they’re looking to make sure that they extend every

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