HONOLULU -- Chances are the uncertainty in the financial world is affecting the way many people shop.

One local store chain appears to be benefiting from the bad times.

Susan Ibara and her boys are shopping for Halloween costumes at Price Busters while the Wall Street meltdown hangs like a specter.

"It's scary just because you don't know how much more it's going to go," Ibara said.

The Galbiatis go all-out every Halloween. This year will just be a little different.

"I think that this year maybe the treat bags that we are giving out might be a little smaller," Dawn Galbiati said.

So, they joined hundreds of families Thursday at Price Busters. The locally owned chain has invested heavily in Halloween despite a weakening economy.

"Well, that's pretty scary, but after today on Wall Street, nothing scares me," Galbiati said.

"We are seeing people who are definitely value-price driven," Price Busters Director of Stores Julie Plant said.

Plant said this is a good time for the company to expand.

Price Busters opened four new Seasonal Stores this year. They had no problems finding qualified people.

"When people are looking for some extra dollars, they aren't sure about the economy, they are picking up that evening part-time job," Plant said.

The down times also offer the opportunity to pick up new store locations at lower rents.

"You still want the kids to try and enjoy themselves, but also realizing that there is not a lot of money to go around," Galbiati said.