By Ben George ben@candystore.com
Valentine’s Day is going to be interesting this year. Unlike last year pre-vaccine, an evening out with your sweetheart might be doable, depending on your location. Fingers crossed! Either way, candy is always a big part of celebrating Valentine’s Day. Different states prefer different candy though.
For instance, in Virginia, the favorite candy is conversation hearts.
Virginia isn’t alone as conversation hearts are also the favorite candy in Hawaii, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, Illinois, Wisconsin, Idaho, Alaska, Florida, California, Montana, and South Carolina.
On the other hand, a heart-shaped box of chocolates claimed the top spot in Tennessee, Connecticut, Michigan, Ohio, Georgia, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Mexico, Washington, Indiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, and Washington, D..C.
M&Ms are the favorites in Iowa, Maryland, Arizona, Kansas, North Dakota, New Jersey, Oregon, and Vermont.
Hershey kisses, chocolate hearts, and Cupid corn emerged the winners in a few states.
Last year, COVID-19 struck Valentine’s Day hard, according to the National Retail Federation. Spending was down more than 20% from the previous year’s all-time high. People were struggling and there was a once in a lifetime worldwide pandemic. It was understandable.
This year, things are picking back up. The NRF is expecting a near-record breaking year with consumer spending for Valentine’s Day up nearly 10% and reaching $23.9B.
The number of people buying candy is expected to be at a new record high with 56% of consumers planning to buy candy for Valentine’s Day. Expected candy sales volume is also up and at $2.2B would be runner up only to 2020 ($2.4B).
