This Valentine’s: More Restaurants Less Roses

More Restaurant Bookings Less Roses This Valentine’s Day

With Valentine’s Day falling on a Sunday this year, a leading Auckland business association is predicting packed out cafes and restaurants while florists are anticipating a slightly quieter day.

“We’re encouraging people to book if they can. There won’t solely be that traditional dinner time rush this year. Because it’s a Sunday, thousands of couples will be opting for brunch or lunch instead,” says Cameron Brewer, chief executive of the Newmarket Business Association.

“Because Valentine’s Day falls at the weekend, it will still be the busiest day of the year for florists by far, but maybe not as hectic as previous years.

“One of the reasons being is that there won’t be that huge flow of flowers between offices. Many people love surprising their Valentine with flowers at work, which inevitably reminds others in the office to also send flowers. With it being a Sunday, you won’t get those corporate and workplace purchases en masse.”

Cameron Brewer also says with a dozen long-stemmed red roses now ranging from $130 - $190 at Auckland’s top florists, many consumers will be looking at alternatives.

“Flowers will always be popular because they’re traditional. However this year we’re expecting people to indulge in a range of ideas, gifts and activities.

“One thing’s for sure, despite a tough couple of years economically, Valentine’s Day continues to get bigger, better and broader. It’s moving beyond, cards, chocolates, and flowers, with more and more retailers getting behind the day,” says Mr Brewer.

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