Central England Co-op says customers are spending more on Mother’s Day

The research also shows that shoppers tend to leave Mother’s Day shopping to the last minute

Shoppers are spending increasing amounts on Mother’s Day treats, according to research by the Central England Co-op.

The retailer, which runs over 240 food stores across 16 counties, has witnessed an increase in sales of flowers and low-alcohol drinks in the week leading up to Mothering Sunday.

Customers spent 14% more on alcohol in 2018, with 21% more on gin and 24% more in low alcohol drinks, compared to the same period in 2017. Between 2017 and 2018 there was a 20% surge in customer spending on flowers in Central England stores.

The data also shows that shoppers tend to leave Mother’s Day shopping to the last minute, with a large spike in sales of flowers on the morning of the day itself.

Martin Hill, head of product and category, said: “We constantly monitor what our customers want and ahead of Mother’s Day we have some great deals on flowers, beer, wines and spirits and confectionary, as well as cards, to put a smile on your mum’s face.

“Whether customers like to plan ahead or leave it to the last minute, we have something for everyone to help celebrate with their mother this Sunday.”