NRF: Consumers Cutting Back on St. Patrick’s Day

Washington, D.C. The National Retail Federation in its “St. Patrick’s Day Consumer Intentions and Actions” survey released Tuesday, found that people celebrating the Irish holiday will spend an average of $32.80 on decorations, festive attire and food and beverage, compared to an average of $35.04 in 2008. Total spending is expected to reach $3.29 billion.

The 18-24 year-old set is expected to decrease its spending from an average of $42.20 last year to $36.05 this year. According to the survey, conducted by BIGresearch, 25-34 year-olds will spend the most, with an average of $39.42 per person.