Mother's Day spending expected to decline

NEW YORK, May 6 (UPI) -- The National Retail Foundation predicts spending on Mother's Day gifts in the United States will likely decline by 10 percent because of the recession.

The trade group said Mother's Day spending may drop by up to $14 billion,

USA Today said Wednesday.

The predicted sales decline has prompted florists nationwide to aggressively market their products in anticipation of Sunday's holiday.

The sales decline would come in the wake of lessened Valentine's Day flower sales, which dropped an average of 22.7 percent according to a survey of retail florists.

USA Today said new offerings among florists' aggressive marketing campaigns are flower arrangements under $30 at the 1-800-Flowers.com flower delivery service.

"In this economy, the consumer is looking to get value for every dollar they spend," said Chris McCann, 1-800-Flowers.com president.