NRF: Father’s Day Spending Will Hit $12.7 Billion

The National Retail Federation (NRF) predicts that consumer spending for Father’s Day (Sunday, June 21) will reach nearly $13 billion this year. The NRF’s annual study, done with Prosper Insights & Analytics, says three-quarters of Americans will celebrate Father’s Day, with the average person spending $115.57 — about the same as last year.

The study also noted that about 40% planned to purchase apparel for dad; total Father’s Day apparel spending should reach $1.7 billion.

Most consumers — 36.4% — will look to department stores for gifts, followed by online (29.2%), discount stores (25.2%) and specialty stores (16.9%).

“After a less than stellar first half of the year, retailers are ready to welcome the warm weather and the millions of shoppers that come along with it and kick off the summer spending season just in time for Father’s Day,” said NRF chief Matthew Shay. “Spending on grilling and patio necessities, pool gear, sporting goods, apparel and other gift and seasonal merchandise could be the positive stepping stone retailers need heading into the second half of the year.”

“After splurging on mom and graduates this year and recognizing that dad is a little more laid back when it comes to celebrations and gifts, consumers will keep spending similar to about what they spent last year on Father’s Day,” added Prosper’s principal analyst Pam Goodfellow.

Prosper’s study polled 6,087 consumers from May 5-12.