Key insights
- The NRF forecasts record Easter spending in 2026, signaling continued consumer resilience despite economic uncertainty. This suggests sustained demand and could positively influence retail sector performance in the short term. However, it also hints at persistent inflationary pressures, potentially influencing Fed policy.
March 24 (Reuters) - U.S. consumer spending on Easter is expected to rise to a record $24.9 billion in 2026, a 5.5% increase from a year earlier, industry body National Retail Federation said on Tuesday, signaling robust demand amid economic uncertainty. * The expected spending would surpass the previous high of$24 billion in 2023. * On a per-person basis, U.S. shoppers would budget a record$195.59 this Easter, up from the previous record of $192.01 in2023, NRF predicted. * “While economic uncertainty remains on the minds of many,consumers are still focused on holiday celebrations likeEaster,” NRF Chief Economist Mark Mathews said. * NRF said candy is the leading shopping category for Easterthis year, with 92% of consumers planning to purchase sweets. * Shoppers would also be influenced by the shoppingexperience itself, including sales and promotions and engagingin‑store displays, NRF Prosper Insights & Analytics executive Phil Ristadded. * NRF’s forecast is based on a survey of 7,845 adultconsumers conducted alongside research firm Prosper Insights &Analytics.