US consumers hit by the credit crunch and struggling with debt are haggling in a bid to save money, new research shows.

According to a survey carried out by online market intelligence firm BIGresearch in April, 50 per cent of consumers have started to haggle for goods and services.

Among the items haggled for are auto repairs, consumer electronics and home appliances, the research shows.

BIGresearch suggests the growth of internet price comparison websites has made consumers more aware of price disparities and therefore more determined to seek out bargains and discounts.

Marc Cook, general manager of Abt Electronics in Glenview, said his store is one of many that is willing to negotiate with consumers.

"If people have a reasonable request when it comes to pricing, we would rather have them leave satisfied than spend money on gas going elsewhere," he told the Chicago Tribune.

Figures show that US consumer spending remained flat in August as household budgets continued to be squeezed.

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