According to the National Retail Federation, shoppers plan to spend an average of $102.50 on Valentine’s gifts for loved ones this year, down from $122.98 a year ago.  Sixteen percent of surveyed consumers said they plan to purchase a jewelry gift, ranking the category second behind flowers.  National Retail Federation Jan. 29, 2009

 

The NRF predicts a 2.2% increase in November and December retail sales (excluding auto, fuel and restaurant spending) over the same last year. That’s half the 10-year average annual increase of 4.4% and the smallest rise since 2002.  The Wall Street Journal Sept. 25, 2008  Paid subscription may be required.

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