LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Consumer spending for Valentine’s Day is expected to reach a record $29 billion this year, according to the National Retail Federation. Shoppers plan to spend nearly $200 on average — not just on significant others, but also on family members, friends, co-workers and even pets.
In Lima, businesses say they are seeing that demand.
At The FlowerLoft of Lima, preparations for Valentine’s Day begin months in advance.
“Oh yeah, extra staffing, of course. And you know, start placing my orders for the flowers, probably mid December, you know, and getting all your product, like your vases and your greenery and your different stuffed animals,” said owner Brian Joseph.
At The FlowerLoft of Lima, preparations for Valentine’s Day begin months in advance.
Joseph says the classics remain the most popular year after year.
“Oh, definitely the roses are the most popular. They always are, and probably always will be.”
“I mean, it's very fast-paced when it's around Valentine's Day, but it's just really rewarding as well when you see that delivery truck leave and its full of a bunch of beautiful arrangements heading out. It's just nice to know that you were part of that love story in some way,” said Michelle Etzkorn, salesperson at The FlowerLoft.
The FlowerLoft is taking orders through Saturday afternoon.
Chocolates are also among the top Valentine’s Day purchases nationwide, with more than half of consumers planning to buy candy.
At Winans Coffee and Chocolate in Lima’s central district, custom assortments and chocolate treats are in high demand.
“We have our chocolate covered strawberries, like we do every year. And then we have graham crackers that go fast, and we do custom chocolate chocolate assortments, and that's great. People love those,” said Miranda Byrd, lead barista.
Customers can build their own boxes in a variety of sizes.
“We have custom two pieces, four pieces, six pieces, half pound, full pound, whatever your heart desires, really, we can. We can do it, and we make it look pretty when we put bows on it, custom tags, all that good stuff,” Byrd added.
Jewelry is expected to account for about $7 billion in spending this year.
At Dunkin’s Diamonds, the store is offering an incentive for shoppers this week.
“So if you spend $130 with us, you will get a little certificate, and you will get a dozen free roses and a box of chocolates. So it's a win, win,” said Kourtney Deitsch, store manager.
With Valentine’s Day on Saturday, local retailers say shoppers still have time to make their purchases.
