In this file photo, red roses wrapped individually in cellophane wait for Valentine shoppers at the Milton Hershey School Valentines Day flower sale, in Hershey, Pa. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, file)
The battle between President Barack Obama and Republican Mitt …
Updated: Monday, 06 Feb 2012, 11:08 AM CST
Published : Monday, 06 Feb 2012, 11:06 AM CST
NEW YORK (CNN) - They say money can't buy you love. Tell that to the Americans who will shell out an estimated $17.6 billion this Valentine's Day.
A survey by the National Retail Federation predicts the average person plans to spend about $126, up nearly nine percent from last year.
Men are predicted to spend more than women, shelling out close to $169 compared to their female counterpart's $86.
Jewelry purchases are expected to reach roughly $4 billion, up from $3.5 billion last year.
The second most popular gift - a special evening out - could rake in about $3.5 billion from consumers. Billions more will be spent on flowers, candy, clothing and gift cards.
Email This
Print This
View Story on a Single Page