FRF Expects Record High Easter Shopping

The Florida Retail Federation (FRF) expects it to be a happy Easter for retailers across the Sunshine State. 

On Monday, the FRF announced it expected record high spending for Easter shopping based on numbers from the National Retail Federation. Nationally, sales are expected to reach $17.3 billion with average shoppers spending $146. That includes $5.5 billion in food, $3 billion for clothes, $2.7 billion in gifts, $2.4 billion on candy and $1.2 billion on flowers. That’s up from last year when $16.4 billion was spent, an average of $140.62. 
 
“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, the president and CEO of the FRF. “People also use this weekend to purchase supplies and essentials for the spring season, meaning increased sales for retailers.”

Miller noted 21 percent of shoppers will shop online while 58 percent plan to hit discount stores, 41 percent will go to department stores and 25 percent will visit small businesses. 

“Those stores that price and market their merchandise aggressively, and embrace the online shopping experience, will see the biggest sales,” said Miller. “There is significant opportunity for retailers this weekend as consumers look for Easter gifts as well as spring supplies.”