Share this @internewscast.com

If you’re one of the millions of consumers joyfully sharing your life with someone right now, the National Retail Federation thinks you’re really going to show it this Valentine’s Day.

The organization projects total spending on significant others is set to reach a record  $14.2 billion this year.

And while inflation has affected a host of categories across the economy in recent years, the projected higher spending is not necessarily the result of higher prices.

Instead, American consumers are reprioritizing how they are spending, and who they are spending on.

In years past, shoppers may have also purchased Valentine’s Day gifts to commemorate platonic relationships with their children’s teachers or close friends, they are less likely to do that this time around, according to the National Retail Federation.

“People are normalizing their Valentine’s spending when it comes to what they purchase for non-romantic relationships in their lives,” said Katherine Cullen, NRF vice president for industry and consumer insights. “They’re getting back to the true purpose of celebrating romantic relationships.”

Where are people planning to open their pocketbooks most for Valentine’s 2024? The NRF expects record spending for jewelry, flowers, clothing and an evening out.

Cullen said many consumers are still feeling comfortable financially as the rate of inflation has eased and unemployment remains low.

Still, they are ultimately going to be somewhat more choosy than in the immediate post-pandemic period as they “rotate their wallets” toward more important areas of their lives.

“The focus is now on significant others,” Cullen said.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Brown, MIT shootings may have stemmed from suspect’s failures, fixation on scientist’s success: report

Report Suggests Suspect’s Obsession with Scientist’s Success and Personal Setbacks Linked to Brown and MIT Shootings

Motive remains unclear following death of Brown, MIT gunman Former NYPD inspector…
Former 'Big Brother' contestant Mickey Lee dead at 35

Former ‘Big Brother’ Contestant Mickey Lee Passes Away at 35

In a heartfelt tribute, fellow contestants of “Big Brother” have been remembering…
Former ‘South Park’ writer owns Trump Kennedy Center domain names

Ex-‘South Park’ Writer’s Clever Domain Move Targets Trump at Kennedy Center

Former President Donald Trump’s decision to appoint a new board for the…
Israel becomes first country to recognize Somaliland; Trump 'not ready'

Israel Officially Recognizes Somaliland as an Independent State; Trump Expresses Hesitation

In a groundbreaking move, Israel has become the first nation to formally…
Times Square ball goes red, white and blue for America's 250th birthday

Times Square Illuminates in Red, White, and Blue to Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary

This year’s New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square will have a…
Man arrested for attempted murder on Christmas in Fort White

Suspect Apprehended in Christmas Day Attempted Murder Case in Fort White

A 53-year-old man named Johnny McNutt has been taken into custody following…
Former Florida law enforcement officer accused of forcing 6-year-old underwater in hotel pool: report

Ex-Florida Officer Allegedly Submerged Child in Hotel Pool: Investigation Underway

A woman facing charges for allegedly holding a young boy underwater at…
Holiday travel rush picks up in Chicago area as travelers head out for the new year

Navigate the Chicago Holiday Travel Frenzy: Tips for a Smooth New Year Journey

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is forecasting another record-breaking year for holiday…
Nigeria says it shared intelligence to support US strikes on ISIS

How Nigeria’s Intelligence Collaboration Boosted US Strikes Against ISIS

The Nigerian government recently disclosed that it collaborated with the United States…
Tax unfairness soars under Donald Trump

Tax Inequities Escalate Significantly During Donald Trump’s Tenure

In recent years, America’s tax structure has been shaped by a series…
US Nigeria strike: What to know about the ' Islamic State militants' targeted by President Donald Trump

US Targets Islamic State Militants in Nigeria Under President Trump’s Directive: Key Details Revealed

The recent airstrikes by the United States in northwestern Nigeria signify a…
Jacksonville Iceman to compete amid possible strike on the East Coast Hockey League

Jacksonville Iceman Set to Face Off as East Coast Hockey League Grapples with Potential Strike

A potential agreement aimed at averting a strike seeks to tackle issues…