Mar 15, 2007

St. Paddy’s Day sales projections expand in 2007By Emma RitchMyrtleBeachOnline.com

Consumers are projected to spend $3.76 billion to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year, an average of $35 each, according to the National Retail Federation.

The total is up from last year’s $27.94 a person – a 25-percent increase for the March 17 festivities.

Why the added spending? Consumer analysts say the timing of the holiday is a major factor.

“With St. Patrick’s Day falling on a Saturday this year, Americans will be in the mood to celebrate,” said NRF President Tracy Mullin.

“In addition to traditional retailers, St. Patrick’s Day will provide a great opportunity for restaurants and bars to see sales increases.”

More than 82 percent of consumers plan to don green for the day, and 22 percent will decorate their homes of offices, according to NRF.

That means big money for local retailers.

“It’s crazy. Right now we’re selling a lot of decorations, but in the next couple days we’ll be selling the hats and wearables,” said Larry Frakes, owner of One Stop Party Shop in Myrtle Beach.

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