DALLAS -- While retailers are upping the ante through sales in hopes of luring in customers, it may not be enough.

About 46 percent of shoppers are expected to spend less this year than in 2007. And despite stores slashing prices even before Thanksgiving, the customers don't seem to be taking the bait.

"We just don't know what is going to happen," said Barbara Ingram, one North Texas shopper. "We are all watching what we will spend this year."

She isn't alone. Many families are tracking every dollar while the economy remains in a sluggish state.

"We are just going to tone it down a little bit," said Andre Wright, another shopper.

Wright said he his sticking to cash or gift certificates for holiday presents.

Last year, Christmas shoppers spent close to $900. This year, that amount is expected to drop to just over $600 in presents.

Over the weekend, many deal seekers hit Fort Worth Trade Days USA at the Texas Motor Speedway.

Kurt McDougal, who was among the shoppers, named his price and walked out with a new rug.

"He came down $30, and you are not going to get that at the mall," he said of his purchase.

A lot of stores are opening early for Black Friday. Both Allen Premium Outlets and Grapevine Mills will open up at midnight. Target and Wal-Mart will begin their holiday sales at 6 a.m. Friday.

E-mail mdiaz@wfaa.com