Displaying items by tag: Holiday

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEMBER 22, 2022

CONTACT: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
(202) 680-9262

Tallahassee, FL –  With Thanksgiving just around the corner, the Florida Retail Federation (FRF) announced more people than ever will participate in holiday shopping between Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday. A recent survey revealed that an estimated 166.3 million shoppers will head to the store, a nearly 8 million increase in shoppers over 2021.

"Floridians who are feeling the impacts of inflation and looking to cut costs this holiday season can 'Find It In Florida' and save on purchases at their local retailers," said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. “With a record-breaking amount of shoppers expected, our Florida retailers have staffed up stores to help you save while you fulfill your holiday shopping list."

Over two-thirds (69%) of consumers plan to shop during Thanksgiving weekend. An increase in in-store traffic during the Thanksgiving holiday can be attributed to customers looking to take advantage of value pricing. Most plan to take advantage of Black Friday savings with 69% (114.9 million) of consumers planning to shop that day. The second most popular day remains Cyber Monday as 38% (63.9 million) of shoppers will search for savings online.

Some of the reasons consumers are shopping over the weekend include:

• Deals are too good to pass up - 59%
• Holiday tradition - 27%  
• Something to do  - 22%

About 60% of shoppers began purchasing holiday items in early November. More than half (54%) of shoppers plan to purchase gift cards, with total spending expected to reach $28.6 billion. Top gift cards include restaurant (27%), department store (26%) and bank-issued cards (25%).

The 2022 top holiday gifts that consumers plan to purchase are: 

• Clothing or accessories - 55%
• Gift cards - 45% 
• Toys - 37%
• Books or other media - 33%
• Food & candy - 31%
• Personal care or beauty items - 26%
• Electronics - 24%
• Home décor or furnishings - 21%
• Jewelry - 20%
• Sporting goods or leisure items - 17%

Barbie and LEGOs continue to hold first place as the hottest items for girls and boys for the third year.

The most popular toys for girls and boys in 2022, ranked, include: 

Girls

1. Barbie
2. Doll
3. LOL Dolls
4. LEGO
5. Makeup
6. Squishmallows
7. American Girl / Apparel*
8. Disney-related items
9. Baby doll
10. Cell phone / Magic Mixies*

*Choices tied in ranking

Boys

1. LEGO
2. Hot Wheels
3. Cars/trucks
4. PlayStation
5. Video games
6. Pokémon
7. Nerf
8. Electric/RC cars
9. Dinosaurs
10. Xbox

This holiday season, when shoppers "Find It In Florida" and shop local retailers, they help boost the local economy and support community businesses. Learn more about the "Find It In Florida" program at the website.

For more information on the predictions of the National Retail Federation, visit: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/record-1663-million-shoppers-expected-during-thanksgiving-weekend.

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
The National Retail Federation, the world’s largest retail trade association, passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail thrive. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 52 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEPTEMBER 23, 2020
CONTACT:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., (202) 680-9262

Monthly Retail Imports, January 2019 to December 2020

Tallahassee, FL – As Florida and the rest of the United States continue to reopen, the Florida Retail Federation announced that retailers nationwide have set a new record of imports in preparation for the holiday season, according to a  report released on September 9. 

According to the data, U.S. ports handled 1.92 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEU) in July, up 19.3 percent from June. A TEU is one 20-foot-long cargo container or its equivalent.

August was estimated at 2.06 million TEU, a 6 percent year-over-year increase. Actual August numbers won't be confirmed until next month, but if reported as estimated, it will beat the previous record of 2.04 million TEU set in October 2018.

"Florida retailers are relieved to be able to restock and replenish their inventory after reopening the state," said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. "With the challenges we continue to face in 2020, Florida retailers are committed to making for a more joyful year's end for consumers during the holiday season. We want to support our customers during these challenging times and safely provide a merrier season for them and their loved ones."

The forecast for September is set at 1.89 million TEU, up 1.1 percent year over year. The report forecasts about 7.58 million TEU during the July-October “peak season.” This timeline is when retailers prepare merchandise for the winter holiday. According to the data, this forecast could make 2020 the third-busiest peak season on record following 7.7 million TEU in 2018 and 7.66 million TEU last year.

The data shared by the Florida Retail Federation is informed by a monthly Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation.  The Global Port Tracker is produced for NRF by the consulting firm Hackett Associates, which provides historical data and forecasts for U.S. ports. 

For more information on the predictions of the National Retail Federation, visit:  https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/imports-spike-economy-continues-recovery-and-retailers-stock-holidays

ABOUT  THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEPTEMBER 21, 2020
CONTACT: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., (202) 680-9262

Tallahassee, FL – Florida shoppers are enthusiastic about celebrating Halloween in a safe fashion this year, despite the pandemic, reports the Florida Retail Federation. In fact, according to a surveyconducted by the National Retail Federation, consumers are so focused on a memorable holiday that they plan to spend $92.12 on average this spooky season compared to $86.27 in 2019.

The survey reveals that three-quarters say the virus is impacting their celebration plans, with 17 percent planning to celebrate virtually. 

Still, 148 million U.S. adults plan to participate in the ghoulish festivities. Most of the top activities this year include safer-at-home plans, like decorating the home (53%), carving pumpkins (46%), dressing up in costumes (46%) and dressing up their pets (18%).

Florida retailers are here to provide all the scary decor and sweet treats for your Halloween celebrations to be as memorable as they are safe," says Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. "Unsurprisingly, consumers are looking to make the most of every holiday during this unusual year. Florida retailers are prepared to meet the increased demand for candy, decor, costumes and more to ensure a safe and spooky holiday for all." 

With the extra time spent at home, consumers are eager to begin shopping for the Halloween season, with four in 10 already searching for their ghoulish delights. Florida shoppers plan to visit discount stores, speciality Halloween shops, grocery stores and online retailers. About 30 percent of consumers plan to purchase their Halloween items online, up 5 percent compared to 2019. 

"Rest assured, Florida's stores are open and at the ready to help you stay safe and healthy while stocking up for the Halloween holiday," said Shalley. "For an added measure of precaution, many of Florida's retailers are offering purchase services to buy online to pick-up in store, receive curbside or have your products delivered to your door." 

As children eagerly await October 31st to dress up, the top staples remain consistent, including princesses and superheroes, most especially spiderman:

• Princess - 2.7 million
• Spiderman - 1.8 million
• Superhero - 1.6 million
• Ghost - 1.3 million
• Batman - 1.3 million

Those who plan on dressing up their furry friends may have a pet pumpkin this Halloween, as the orange squash remains to be the hottest costume for animals. The top favorites include: 

• Pumpkin - 10 percent
• Hot Dog - 6 percent
• Superhero - 5 percent
• Cat - 3 percent

For more information on the predictions of the National Retail Federation, visit: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/consumers-anticipate-new-ways-celebrate-halloween-despite-covid-19

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.  

For Immediate Release: July 24, 2019
CONTACT: James Miller, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., (850)701-3015

The Sunshine State’s annual tax-free shopping holiday is extended to five days this year; Technology items up to $1,000 are included, and consumers of ALL ages can save money by taking advantage of buying thousands of eligible items

TALLAHASSEE, FL – The Florida Retail Federation (FRF), the state’s premier trade association celebrating more than 80 years of supporting Florida’s retailers, is encouraging consumers and retailers to prepare for the upcoming Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday. This popular annual “holiday” takes place August 2-6. During this time, consumers will not have to pay sales tax on thousands of eligible items such as clothes, shoes, school supplies and the return of technology items. The sales tax holiday also benefits Sunshine State retailers who see increased sales and as a result, create new jobs for hard working Florida families.

“We are excited to support this generous five-day tax free holiday. This annual event provides Floridians with much needed tax relief while providing a nice boost to our local retailers,” said FRF President and CEO R. Scott Shalley. “We commend Governor DeSantis and our legislative leaders for their support of Florida’s families.”

Serving as the state’s second busiest shopping “holiday” behind Black Friday, this year’s list of eligible items includes technology items up to $1,000 (not included in 2018), clothing, shoes and bags costing $60 or less and school supplies $15 or less. Nationally, the average family shopping for K-12 students is expected to be $696.70, the highest in survey history, according to FRF’s national partners at the National Retail Federation’s annual survey. Total spending nationally is expected to be slightly lower than last year, due to fewer families with students in grades K-12, totaling $26.2 billion, down from $27.5 billion.

Families with college students are expected to spend an average of $976.78, which is up from last year’s $942.17 and tops the previous record of $969.88 set in 2017. With fewer respondents saying they are attending college, spending is expected to total $54.5 billion, down from last year’s record $55.3 billion.

Total spending nationally for K-12 schools and college combined is projected to reach $80.7 billion, down from last year’s $82.8 billion largely because of the decreased number of households with children in elementary through high school.

According to the survey, back-to-school shoppers plan to spend the most on clothing ($236.90). In addition, shoppers also plan to spend:

• $203.44 on electronics such as computers, calculators and phones
• $135.96 on shoes
• $117.49 on supplies such as notebooks, pencils, backpacks and lunch boxes.

K-12 families plan to do most of their shopping at department stores (53 percent), discount stores (50 percent), online (49 percent), clothing stores (45 percent) and office supply stores (31 percent).

Among K-12 shoppers, teens are expected to spend an average $36.71 of their own money, up from $30.88 10 years ago, while pre-teens should spend $26.40, up from $11.94 from 10 years ago.

College shoppers plan to spend the most on electronics ($234.69), followed by:

• $148.54 on clothing and accessories
• $120.19 on dorm and apartment furnishings
• $98.72 on food items ($98.72)

They plan to do most of their shopping online (45 percent), followed by department stores (39 percent), discount stores (36 percent), college bookstores (32 percent) and office supply stores (29 percent).

“Consumers desire the ability to shop in different ways and at different times, and retailers have responded by providing innovative shopping options for them to choose from,” said Shalley. “We’re proud of the many technological advancements our retail members have made that ensure everyone’s shopping experience is fun, safe and easy.”

The back-to-school sales tax holiday has been one of the most popular shopping holidays among consumers and retailers and has been providing vital tax relief since it first began. The holiday has been recognized in 18 out of the 22 years since it first began in 1998. This year will mark the 10th year in a row it has taken place.

For more information and a list of qualifying items, please review the Department of Revenue's complete Tax Information Publication (TIP), as well as their Frequently Asked Questions. For your convenience, on their website, they've also provided digital downloads and social media posts for businesses interested in promoting and sharing information about the sales tax holiday.

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

For Immediate Release: May 6, 2019
CONTACT: James Miller, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., (850)701-3015

Highest spending amount ever expected this year as families celebrate moms with gifts, jewelry, events, flowers andmore

TALLAHASSEE, FL - The Florida Retail Federation (FRF), the state’s premier trade association representing retailers for over 80 years, says record spending is expected for this Mother’s Day as per person spending should come close to $200. Total spending nationally is expected to exceed $25 billion, also a record.

“Mother’s Day has traditionally been one of the highest per person spending events, and this year is no different as we expect records to be broken both locally and nationally,” said FRF President & CEO R. Scott Shalley. “Floridians are excited to celebrate mothers, and we are eager to see how retailers respond to this record-setting demand for gifts, jewelry, flowers and more.”

Mother’s Day spending is expected to total a record $25 billion this year, up from $23.1 billion in 2018, according to FRF’s partners at the National Retail Federation’s recent survey. A total 84 percent of U.S. adults are expected to celebrate in honor of their mothers and other women in their lives.

While the number of people celebrating Mother’s Day is in line with last year's86 percent, those celebrating are expected to spend more at an average $196 compared with $180 in 2018. Consumers ages 35-44 are likely to spend the most at an average of $248, up from $224, and men are likely to spend more than women at $237 compared with $158.

Newer models of gift-giving including special outings and gift cards are growing, in addition to more traditional gifts including flowers, greeting cards, and jewelry. Increased spending on jewelry represents 31 percent of the expected increase over last year.

According to the survey, consumers plan to purchase the following for Mother’s Day:

(* These are national numbers)

Many of those celebrating cited finding something unique (44 percent) as the most important factor when picking out a Mother’s Day gift, followed by one that creates a special memory (39 percent). More than 8 in 10 (81 percent) indicate they will look to retailers for gifting inspiration.

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.