Consumer confidence and the impact on retail output in the Netherlands

The paper provides a theoretical exposition of the different motives to save, i.e. not to spend. The structure of consumer confidence is described with the methodology of data (sources). It is followed by the re-estimation of the model of consumer confidence for both the 1972-1987 and the 1987-2000 periods. The actors investigate which specific motives to save are reflected in the identified components. The results are discussed and compared with other actors’ results. The model of firm output growth is specified by way of illustration in retail.