Phil Ammann
Florida merchants can expect fireworks for July 4 weekend, and not just the paper-and-gunpowder kind.
Just in time for Independence Day this Saturday, a new report from the Florida Retail Federation — the state’s leading consumer sales trade association — says Floridians will spending more this year on holiday-themed events, food and merchandise.
In the National Retail Federation’s 2015 Independence Day Survey, conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics, nearly two-thirds of July 4 celebrants (64.4 percent) will hold a cookout, picnic or barbecue.
The group estimates that Americans nationwide will spend an average of $71.23 per household on the holiday, up from $68.16 last year. Spending on food items is projected to reach $6.6 billion.
“With Florida’s economy continuing to strengthen and more Floridians with extra money in their pockets, Sunshine State retailers are looking at a very productive and successful holiday shopping weekend,” FRF CEO Rick McAllister said. “Families are proud to celebrate the red, white and blue with patriotic supplies, gifts and plenty of food.”
Although many people already have Independence Day merchandise, the survey says more than 48 million consumers – 22.8 percent – will shop for new decorations, apparel and more.
The good news extends to more than food and decoration sales: 42.6 percent, or 103 million celebrants, will attend a community fireworks display or other event. Another 11.5 percent — 27 million people — will watch a parade.
Since July 4 falls on a Saturday this year, more than 33 million Americans say they will head out of town for the weekend. Nearly eight in 10 (78 percent) told researchers that higher gas prices will not have an effect on holiday plans, up from 70.1 percent who said the same last year.
The NRF Independence Day Spending Survey, which polled 6,431 consumers from June 2-9, is designed to examine consumer behavior and shopping trends.
