Plenty of Americans will show loved ones their appreciation on Valentine’s Day with candy, flowers, cards and other gifts, a boon for the sectors behind those popular tokens of affection. Valentine’s Day, celebrated Feb. 14 each year, is just under a week away, meaning many partaking in the holiday are likely finalizing their plans and readying presents for the special day. It falls on a Friday this year. While celebrants most often shop for significant others and family members for Valentine’s Day, Americans are also looking to treat others like friends, colleagues and pets. For the upcoming Feb. 14 holiday, 32% of U.S. consumers are looking to buy something for friends, according to a survey released last month by the National Retail Federation. Americans will open their wallets to the tune of $27.5 billion overall for Valentine’s Day this year, equating to an average of $188.81 per person, the trade association projected. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON FOX BUSINESS That record total marks a roughly $1.7 billion increase from the prior year, according to the NRF. "Whether they are celebrating a significant other or someone else in their lives, Valentine’s Day is meaningful for many people," Katherine Culle, the NRF’s vice president of industry and consumer insights, said in a statement. "Consumers are looking for special ways to treat their loved ones and can expect retailers to provide the best gift options and deals." When it comes to gifts, candy, flowers, greeting cards, an evening out and jewelry are expected to be some of the most popular things that Americans bestow upon loved ones this year, according to the NRF.

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