While not targeting the ultra-high-end market, Coach is targeting the affluent consumer.

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Banks are also shifting their focus away from the mass market consumer toward the affluent.

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This is because changing demographics mean that an ever-higher share of consumer spending is being done by the affluent over-45s.

ECONOMIST: BUSINESS BRITAIN

Corresponding to the decline in luxury consumer confidence, the average amount spent by affluent consumers on luxury goods and services in the second quarter 2011 declined by 8.4 percent from the first quarter and dropped 18.4 percent over same quarter last year, according to the survey.

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By raising consumption taxes on products and services targeting the affluent while reducing or maintaining income tax levels, the Chinese government has been able to sustain consumer confidence, increase spending (retail sales have risen 16-18% annually over the last three years), and get needed tax revenue for infrastructure projects required to maintain employment numbers.

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Because of her extensive network of influential and affluent moms -- an important demographic -- Stern's company is highly sought after by consumer product brands, entertainment companies and fashion and beauty businesses around the country.

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