With Mother’s Day just around the corner, IBISWorld has revealed Australians are expected to spend almost $1.4 billion on Mother’s Day gifts this year – an increase of 2.7 per cent from last year and almost three time compared to Father’s Day.
IBISWorld anticipates Australians aged 18 and over will spend an average of $77.21 on mum in 2013, up from $76.47 in 2012 and more than twice the average $37.05 spent on dad for Father’s Day.
IBISWorld general manager Karen Dobie said the positive consumer sentiment, increasing disposable incomes and low unemployment are expected to contribute to the growing spend.
“There are a number of factors driving higher spending on mum than dad, including the perception that there is less choice for dad in terms of gift type. Food, alcohol, sporting goods and tools are key Father’s Day gift categories,” she said. “There is also a propensity to buy last-minute gifts for mum, resulting in consumers spending more than they may have planned, and the desire to spoil mum by showering her with the little luxuries.”
IBISWorld has tipped cafes and restaurants will benefit the most with $298 million expected to be spent on eating out. Meanwhile, pampering options, such as a massage or day spa voucher, are anticipated to grow by 5.5 per cent from last year.
Other trending gift categories that are expected to grow are chocolate and confectionary (3.6 per cent), homewares (3.4 per cent) and cosmetics, perfume and toiletries (3 per cent).