Strong sales are expected over the Easter holiday weekend at U.S. grocery stores, and if those predictions come to fruition, American retailers will have enjoyed a successful Lenten season.
Americans plan to spend a total of USD 23.6 billion (EUR 20.8 billion) on Easter shopping this year, which would be more than the USD 22.4 billion (EUR 19.7 billion) spent last year, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics annual survey. The spending includes gifts, candy, food, decorations, and other items.
“As we witnessed throughout the pandemic, holidays such as Easter are especially meaningful for Americans during times of uncertainty,” NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights Katherine Cullen said in a press release. “During this time of economic uncertainty, consumers are prioritizing their Easter celebrations, and retailers are ready to help them enjoy this special occasion with loved ones.”
Nearly 90 percent of consumers plan to purchase food for the holiday weekend, with the survey anticipating USD 7.4 billion (EUR 6.5 billion) worth of spending in that category.
Seafood sales at U.S. retail experienced a solid March due to the late timing of Lent versus last year and tariff concerns causing stockpiling behavior.
Frozen seafood sales surged 5.1 percent year over year in the month to USD 738 million (EUR 650 million), while sales by volume in the category grew 3 percent, according to Circana data analyzed by Lakeland, Florida, U.S.A.-based 210 Analytics...
