China discount snack chain draws crowds of frugal shoppers

BEIJING -- A chain of discount snack shops in China has achieved growth by drawing throngs of customers who have turned thrifty as the economy slows.

A visit to a Busy for You store in the city of Liuyang in mid-January found it bustling with visitors. What drew shoppers to the location was a red banner with yellow lettering advertising a New Year sale and raffle. Winners of the raffle would receive a gift certificate worth 888 yuan ($122) or an electric motorbike, the banner read.