The outlook for retailers in the build-up to the back-to-school season is bleak, according to the Associated Press.

Reporting the comments of research company RetailMetrics LLC's president Ken Perkins, the news provider indicates that the coming months could be tough for shops, as consumers feel the effects of high prices for various commodities.

"The back-to-school season is going to be challenging," said Mr Perkins, who was reflecting on the recently-published retail figures that show how heavy discounts prompted positive spending patterns in June.

However, this is not expected to continue, with the AP citing tighter credit, spiralling gas prices and higher-than-average food costs as some of the factors US citizens must deal with in the coming months. Indeed, gas reached $4 per gallon recently.

People looking to pay for every-day items may benefit from taking out pay day loans to see them through until their salary is paid into their bank accounts at the end of the month.

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