Businesses are still expecting a good Christmas but report many customers are watching their spending carefully as money is tight for some.

The say a further sign of the hard times for some people are the increased requests for financial help.

Andrew Bynoe, Managing Director of Carlton and A1 Supermarkets, has observed such a trend.

Andrew Bynoe, Managing Director of Carlton and A1 Supermarkets.

Managing Director of Abeds Stores Eddie Abed, a former President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also sees the signs of careful spending.

Managing Director of Abeds Stores Eddie Abed

Many Barbadians say they will not be spending much for Christmas this year.

Starcom Network News visited Swan Street today to get sense on how they are preparing for the season.

Barbadians on Swan Street in Bridgetown today.