Jun 26, 2025
Most people associate Valentine’s Day with grand romantic gestures and heartfelt expressions of love. But for businesses worldwide, it’s a chance to sell the perfect product and leave a lasting impression.
Surveys estimate that this year alone, the average spend per person was $188.81, which is the highest in a decade. This includes $6.5B spent on jewelry, $5.4B on dining, $2.9B on flowers, $2.5B on candies and chocolates, and $1.4B on greeting cards. In addition to these conventional gift ideas, online and digital gifts also show a rapid increase in popularity.
Valentine’s chocolates have shown a surge in prices this year, with the price of cocoa itself skyrocketing from $2,000 per ton in 2022 to $10,000 in 2025 – a 500 percent increase and the highest in 50 years. This classic gift of love has turned into a bigger financial commitment than before. Flowers are another favorite that have experienced a price hike owing to higher fuel and logistics costs in their transportation, with Miami International Airport reportedly processing 940 million flower stems for Valentine’s Day imports alone.
Think men aren’t the more romantic gender? You might want to reconsider. They outspend women on Valentine’s Day, averaging $162 to women’s $110. But it’s not just romantic partners at the receiving end of all these gifts. Surveys estimate that 32% of people buy gifts for their pets! Another 32% say they treat their besties, while 19% gift their co-workers. Who says romantic love is the only way to celebrate?
Another interesting trend this year includes an e-commerce love boom: a rise of 40% in online Valentine’s Day shoppers compared to 21.2% from last year. And, as expected of a generation known for prioritizing mental health above all else, 60% of Gen Z in the U.S are buying gifts for themselves, embracing self-love as a new Valentine’s Day tradition.
Amid all the Valentine’s Day spending, it’s important to show some love to the planet, too. This includes choosing eco-friendly gifts like organic chocolates, fair-trade flowers, or recycled jewelry, avoiding excessive wrapping and single-use decorations, and supporting local and sustainable brands that use ethical sourcing.
Valentine’s Day traditions may evolve, but the need for heartfelt gestures stays strong. Businesses that understand these shifts and adapt their strategies accordingly will be well-positioned to make the most of this annual celebration.
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