Survey: Spring weather fuels Easter spending

The 2006 Easter Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey found that 77.6 percent of Americans plan to celebrate Easter this year, up from 75.9 percent last year.

Total Easter spending is estimated to reach $12.63 billion, up from the $9.6 billion spent in 2005.

The average shopper expects to spend $121.72 on Easter, up from $96.51 last year, according to the survey.

Nearly half – 41.2 percent – of consumers plan to purchase clothing for the holiday, compared to 29.4 percent in 2005. Of those purchasing apparel, consumers plan to spend an average $55.50.

Consumers plan to spend an average $36.44 on food, $18.62 on gifts, $8.02 on flowers, $6.36 on decorations and $6.51 on greeting cards.

The survey cites the major reason for the rise in consumer spending this Easter as the timing of the holiday on April 16, compared to last year, when the holiday fell on March 27, the earliest Easter in 16 years. As the holiday will be celebrated when weather is warmer, consumers are expected to purchase more spring-related products.

The survey polled 6,341 consumers and was conducted online March 1–8.