Easter-related spending expected to reach record levels

Shoppers are expected to spend a record-breaking $17.3 billion on Easter-related supplies this year, according to the National Retail Federation.

Those celebrating the holiday plan to spend an average of $146, an increase of 3.8 percent over last year’s $140.62, according to the trade group’s annual Easter Spending Survey conducted by Prosper Insights and Analytics.

Photo by drewfer.

Photo by drewfer.

“Retailers are beginning one of their busiest times of year and are more than ready as consumers shop for spring essentials,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Shoppers will find promotions on a number of items on their lists, from Easter baskets to sports equipment, home goods, garden tools and more.”
According to the survey, shoppers are expected to spend $5.5 billion on food, $3 billion on clothing, $2.7 billion on gifts, $2.4 billion on candy and $1.2 billion on flowers.

“This time of year means the arrival of good weather and good moods across Florida as consumers buy gifts, food and decorations to celebrate Easter with family and friends,” said Randy Miller, President & CEO of the Florida Retail Federation, the state’s retail trade group. “People also use this weekend to purchase supplies and essentials for the spring season, meaning increased sales for retailers.”