The Easter Bunny will be carrying a lighter basket this year as consumers opt for cheaper celebrations and spend less on Easter clothing. Spending on Easter decor, apparel, gifts and candy is expected to be down, according to the National Retail Federation’s 2009 Easter Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey.
The survey found that Americans will spend an average of $116.59 on candy, gifts, food and decorations. Last year, Americans spent $135.03 on their Easter goods. Total spending is expected to be around $12.73 billion.
The largest expense will be preparing a meal, an average cost of $37.67, compared with $41.09 last year. Other expenses include gifts at $17.30, compared with $21.42 last year; flowers at $7.55, compared with $9.11 last year; and candy at $16.55, compared with $18.12 last year.
While Easter occurs three weeks later than it did last year, the survey found fewer consumers plan to purchase new spring clothing. According to the survey, Americans will spend an average of $19.44 on clothing, down from $23.82 last year.
