According to NRF’s Easter spending survey conducted by BIGinsight, Americans will spend an average of $145.28 on apparel, candy, food and decorations this year, up 11% from $131.04 last year. Total spending is expected to reach $16.8 billion. The majority of the spend will be on typical candy favorites like chocolate bunnies and jelly beans, with 89.3% spending more than $2 billion. Spending on other associated items is also expected to increase: $26.11 on apparel, up from $21.51 last year, and $20.35 on candy, up from $18.55 last year. 48.5% will take advantage of retailers’ spring fashion and accessory sales, with total spending on those items expected to reach $3 billion. The report goes on to say that while most people will shop at their local discount store (63.5%), department stores can expect to see a lift as well. 42.6% — the highest ever in NRF survey history — will shop at a department store for gifts and other holiday merchandise.
Retailers need to take advantage of this spring thaw to drive additional sales by making their holiday merchandise more visible and more accessible. One sure way to boost sales is to use In-Queue Merchandising – making those extra little spring accessories or specialty chocolates – the impulse item of choice. Shoppers will be entertained while they are checking out and delighted with their little extra finds, helping to leave a positive lasting impression of their in-store experience – that will keep them coming back for more.
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