retail

We Love Mom: Mother's Day Spending To Rise

Mothers-dayThe National Retail Federation says that despite rising gas prices, Americans are eager to spoil mama this year, with the average celebrant spending $152.52 on gifts, up from $140.73 last year. About 75% intend to spend as much or more than they did last year, bringing total spending to an estimated $18.6 billion. Those in the 18-to-44 age bracket are most likely to celebrate the holiday, as are those who live in the South.

By far, the most common purchase is a greeting card, with 83% of the sample planning to buy one, followed by flowers, the choice of 66%, and some sort of pampering service, such as a spa day, a facial or a massage, selected by 58% of those included in the survey. And 54% will take mom out for a meal, making it a good day for the thousands of restaurants cooking up special Mother’s Day events and menus. (The poll was conducted by BIGResearch, and included more than 8,700 adults.)

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Retailers can also expect to do well, with nearly one-third of their customers intending to buy mom a new blouse or sweater, spending $1.6 billion on clothing and accessories. And 13% say they plan to choose an electronic gift, such as tablets, digital cameras and more.

Department stores look to be big winners this year, with 36% of gift buyers headed their way, as are specialty stores (such as jewelers or electronics stores), also with 36%. About 30% will shop at one of the discount chains, while 26% plan to shop online. 

The survey also says people are continually expanding their definition of the women in their lives who deserve recognition, with 65% shopping for their mom or stepmom, 22% also buying gifts for a wife, daughter (11%), grandmother (8%), sister (8%), friend (8%) or godmother (2%). 

Men, on average, plan to spend $189.74, while women say they intend to shell out $117.42.

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