St. Patrick’s Day Expected to Give Retailers a Spring Boost

This year, spending for the March 17 holiday should reach $4.4 billion in the United States.

March 11, 2016

WASHINGTON – Americans love to put on their green and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with family and friends, and this year is expected to be no different. According to the National Retail Federation’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Spending Survey, conducted by Prosper Insight and Analytics, more than 125 million Americans plan to celebrate the Irish holiday and are expected to spend an average of $35.37 per person, down slightly from last year’s $36.52.

Total spending for the March 17 holiday is expected to reach $4.4 billion based on U.S. population 18 and older. “Retailers expect to see a nice boost in sales as consumers head to stores looking for apparel, decorations, food and beverages to help make their St. Patrick’s Day celebrations special,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said in a press release. “With the winter holidays behind us and spring flowers starting to bloom, St. Patrick’s Day provides a perfect opportunity for Americans to get together to celebrate with friends and family.”

Fans of St. Patrick’s Day plan to celebrate in a number of ways. According to the survey, 82% will wear green to show their Irish pride, 31% plan to make a special dinner, 29% will head to a party at a bar or restaurant and 21% will attend a private party.

In addition, 23% plan to decorate their homes or offices in an Irish theme. According to the survey, 57% of those celebrating will purchase food and beverages, 28% will buy apparel or accessories, 23% will buy decorations and 17% will buy candy.

The survey asked for the first time where consumers will make their St. Patrick’s Day purchases. More than a third (36%) plan to do so at a grocery store, 30% at discount stores and 21% at bars and restaurants.

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