Strong Super Bowl Spending Expected

Washington, Consumer spending may be down, but not when it comes to the Super Bowl. According to the Retail Advertising and Marketing Association's Super Bowl Consumer Intentions and Action Survey, sales for products related to the big game are expected to see big growth over last year.

The survey found that consumers plan to purchase 3.9 million televisions for Super Bowl Sunday, up more than 50% from 2.5 million last year. In addition, viewers plan to purchase 1.8 million pieces of furniture, up from 1.3 million last year.

Consumers intend to spend an average of $59.90 on Super Bowl-related merchandise, up from last year’s $56.04. Total spending for the Feb. 3 Super Bowl is expected to reach $9.5 billion.

Super Bowl spending isn't limited to increases in entertainment products. Food, beverages and apparel are also expected to see growth. According to the survey, of those that will be watching the game, 67.4% will be purchasing food and beverages and 6.0% will buy team apparel and accessories.