Valentine's Day: 5 Interesting Facts

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Tuesday, February 14, 2017

5. Billions in business

A worker carries an armload of red roses at Winston Flowers in Boston, Mass., Feb. 13, 2013, the day before Valentine's Day. According to Winston Flowers, they will deliver 350,000 roses on Valentine's Day. | (Photo: Reuters/Brian Snyder)

Love is big business for many retailers, as Valentine's Day is a holiday often involving purchase of flowers, chocolates, an evening out and movie tickets, among other things.

In a press release from earlier this month, the National Retail Federation estimated that Americans will spend approximately $18.2 billion on various gifts and other items for Valentine's Day.

While noting a decline in spending from 2016, which the NRF noted as being a record $19.7 billion, the holiday will still prove to be a profitable one for many businesses.

"This is one day of the year when millions find a way to show their loved ones they care regardless of their budget," noted NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay.

"Consumers will find that retailers recognize that their customers are looking for the best deals and will offer good bargains just as they did during the holiday season."