Retailers across the Sunshine State are expecting to close 2021 on a high note as the holiday shopping season is ready to hit full swing.
This week, the Florida Retail Federation (FRF) showcased a study from the National Retail Federation showing holiday sales expected to be between $843.3 billion and $859 billion at the national level, between 8.5 percent to 10.5 percent higher than last year.
“This boost in sales could be attributed to the 90 percent of shoppers that enthusiastically plan to participate in winter holiday celebrations this year,” the FRF noted, adding that almost half of shoppers have already begun their holiday shopping.
“Florida shoppers are delighted to spend time with family and friends this holiday season,” shares Scott Shalley, the president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. “Our retailers are ready and here to help you have the best shopping experience as you browse for gifts, decorations and everything you need for your holiday celebrations. We encourage shoppers to Find it in Florida when gearing up for the holidays.”
“Consumers will spend on average $998 for this year’s winter holiday season. Of that total, shoppers will spend on average $648 for gifts and $231 on non-gift items related to the holiday festivities, including food, candy, decorations and Christmas cards. About $118 will be spent on other non-gift purchases,” the FRF noted.
Gift cards are the top present people want to see under the Christmas tree this year with 56 percent of shopping wanting them. Almost half of shoppers–47 percent–want clothes and accessories while 32 percent want books and other media. Around a quarter of consumers–26 percent–want electronics as gifts while 23 percent want home décor, 20 percent want personal care items, another 20 percent want jewelry, 16 percent want home improvement items and another 16 percent want sporting goods.
More than half of consumers–57 percent–plan to shop online while 47 percent will hit the department stores, 44 percent will shop at discount stores, 43 percent plan to buy gifts at grocery stores, 30 percent will ship clothing and accessories stores and 24 percent will shop at local retailers and small businesses.
Shalley and the FRF urged Floridians to shop locally through the “Find It in Florida” campaign.
“Florida retailers are ready to help families have a stress-free holiday season,” said Shalley. “Whether you are hunting down the perfect ‘Secret Santa’ gift, browsing unique ornaments, hosting a traditional family holiday dinner or planning other festivities, Florida retailers are working hard to ensure this holiday season is merry and bright.”
