My only experience as one of the "tricklers" (heh) is when I was unsure if I was going to be working, we cut loose our house cleaner. When my contract was renewed we hired her back.

Having more disposable income also enchourages me to hire someone to do things around my house, like paint, cut the lawn, fertilize the lawn, fix my garage door opener etc. etc. When economic times get lean, I do those things myself and do not spend money. Then, the painters and handymen have less income.

I think it does work, at least in my household. I know others around me do the same. I also believe it works on the small-business scale, and while one may lose some of the trickle, with large companies, it does happen there also.

That's my story, I'm sticking to it.