Gone are the days of ugly dorm furniture and gigantic computers. Instead, today's college students are looking for ways to express their individuality with funky furniture and colored laptops--and retailers are helping them do just that. It's a trend that's been picking up steam for a while, but is just starting to make a significant financial impact for many retailers. According to the National Retail Federation's 2007 Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch, the average college student and their parents will spend approximately $956.93 on back-to-school duds and furniture, up from $880.52 last year. "With other consumers worrying about the stock market and interest rates, retailers are smart to focus on a group that needs to buy because of a life stage event," said BIGresearch vice president of strategy Phil Rist.

So who spends the most? The survey found that freshmen do, with an average of $1,193.60. That makes sense, being that they're making that all-important transition from high-school student to college co-ed. Soph0mores, however, are expected to spend the least.--Kristin Edelhauser

Amid all the recalls of toys made in China, parents and retailers alike are looking to buy from brands that manufacture in the U.S. and Europe. "I would pay up to 50 percent more for something that I knew was well-made and safe," said Amy Lemen, a mother quoted in an Associated Press article. And major toy retailer Toys "R" Us is looking at ways to expand its selection of American-made toys and is also growing its selection of organic products. The only problem is that most of the company’s holiday ordering has already been done. But this is where quick-acting entrepreneurs can step up and fill this gap in the marketplace.

Right now, more than 80 percent of toys sold in the U.S. are made in China, so toy companies that manufacture in the U.S., like Little Tykes and K'Nex, will be promoting that their products are American-made with bigger product labels and advertising campaigns. And the American Toy Industry Association as a whole is also taking a stand--it’s working with Congress and the Consumer Product Safety Commission to help establish mandatory testing for all toy products.

This could be a big shift in the toy industry--with more focus on safety and quality products instead of hot trends. We’ll have to see what the holiday season brings--and if the kids agree.--Francine Kizner