Don’t ignore them…

Although a quick read, the numbers in this article are staggering. In short, Gen Y is ready to spend–and spend big. The message? Retailers and corporations take note of this generation’s needs and habits.

Obviously, the group is very comfortable shopping online. One-half of consumers under age 24 made an Internet purchase between April 2007 and February 2008, according to Nielsen Online.

Sometimes Gen Y gets a bad rap for their beliefs, workplace habits, the list goes on. But, when it comes to changing our social patterns and cultural path for years to come, this is the generation that its leading–and spending–each step of the way.