Cupid has turned thrifty this year
By BRUCE HOROVITZ
USA Today
I love you — for less.
That's what many consumers will be telling their honeys this economically challenged Valentine's Day. Savvy retailers are responding with all sorts of discounts and special deals aimed at nudging early online purchases.
Some are shouting, "Free shipping." Others are touting substantial discounts — up to 25 percent. Even chi-chi brands such as Tiffany and Godiva are on board.
Most Valentine's gifts are bought at the last minute, says Thomas Hine, author of "I Want That! How We All Became Shoppers."
"So offers like these appeal to people who want to feel more responsible." Which is most of us.
Some offers:
It also is discounting long-stem roses, which are $24.99 this year versus $29.99 last year. And it has a $19.99 Peruvian lily bouquet. Last year, its Valentine's bouquets started at $29.99. "We've never sold them for that price at Valentine's Day," says Chris McCann, the company president. "We recognize the American consumer is tightening up."
It also is giving a free box of Godiva chocolates with any purchase of $60 or more at regular stores, says a spokeswoman.
So, will all these deals help sell V-Day stuff?
"God knows if this will work," says Hine. "We've never seen anything like what we're experiencing right now."
