Because she’s worth it

Mother's Day, which falls on May 11, is the biggest eating-out day of the year, according to the National Restaurant Association (NRA). But this year might not be as rosy for moms, with consumers planning on slightly scaling back on expenditures, according to a poll of 8,180 consumers by BIGresearch to gauge consumer behavior and shopping trends related to Mother’s Day, sponsored by the National Retail Federation. Last year, consumers spent more than $3 billion on a special Mother's Day brunch or dinner alone, and total spending this year is expected to reach $15.8 billion. But respondents to the survey say they will spend an average of $138.63 this year, compared to $139.14 last year. While the majority will invest in one major gift (such as jewelry) for mom, they are likely to spend at least some money in supermarkets on flowers (customers are expected to spend $2.0 billion overall on flowers), gift cards/gift certificates ($1.6 billion), housewares and gardening tools ($696 million), and greeting cards ($672 million).   Young adults aged 18-24 will spend the most at an average of $170.71, while the 25-34 year-old age group will spend an average of $153.17, followed by 35-44 year-olds who will spend an average of $145.86. All mom REALLY wants is to see or hear from her progeny on that special day. And it won’t hurt to bring her some flowers and candy. After all, she’s worth it.