NRF'S State of Retail & the Consumer Announced its Annual 2023 Retail Forecast, Focused on Inflation, the Labor Market & More

MARCH 31, 2023

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(202) 680-9262

Tallahassee, FL – The Florida Retail Federation (FRF) announced today that 2023 is poised to see retail sales growth despite concerns over inflation. A forecast report released this week by the National Retail Federation forecasted retail growth between 4% and 6% this year, amounting to between $5.13 trillion and $5.23 trillion in sales.

"Retailers continue to find ways to help Floridians get more out of their hard earned money," shared Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the FRF. "Many shoppers are taking advantage of retail sales and promotions due to the lingering impacts of inflation. Floridians can help support their communities and neighbors by shopping at local retailers. Our local stores are committed to providing Florida families with the best value possible."

Despite inflation remaining between 3% and 3.5% on goods and services this year, the report reveals the pressure should trend down beyond this year. The impacts of inflation could have contributed to the nation's slowed economic growth. The estimated full-year GDP growth is at 1% for 2023 compared to the 2.1% increase in 2022.

The annual retail sales forecast incorporates nationwide employment trends, wages, consumer confidence, disposable income, consumer credit and previous retail sales. In order to focus on "core retail" sales, the forecast excluded the retail sales of automobile dealers, gas stations and restaurants. 

Despite the nation's resilient labor market, the report reveals a deceleration in job growth nationwide as a result of slower economic activity. Estimates reveal that the national unemployment rate could exceed 4% before next year.

Non-store and online sales are also included in the forecast total, expecting growth between 10% and 12% in 2023, totaling between $1.41 trillion to $1.43 trillion. Yet brick-and-mortar retail stores still remain a permanent fixture in the retail industry. The forecast accounts for the physical stores as the primary point of purchase for over 70% of retail sales.

The Florida Retail Federation encourages shoppers to "Find It In Florida" and shop at local retailers. Supporting Florida retailers helps boost the local economy and support jobs in the community. Learn more about the "Find It In Florida" program at the website. 

For more information on the 2021 Retail Sales Forecast of the National Retail Federation, visit: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/nrf-forecasts-2023-retail-sales-grow-between-4-and-6.

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers contribute $239 billion to the economy every year and support 3.6 million jobs for Florida families, or nearly one-third of all jobs in the state. Florida retailers pay more than $69 billion in wages annually and collect and remit more than $35 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
The National Retail Federation, the world’s largest retail trade association, passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail thrive. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 52 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 31, 2023
CONTACT: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (202) 680-9262

Tallahassee, FL – No broken hearts this Valentine's Day, as retailers anticipate a nearly 10% increase in per-person spending this year as shoppers plan to spend $192.80 on average, according to the Florida Retail Federation. 

"Shoppers are excited to celebrate the meaningful relationships in their lives this Valentine's Day," said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. “Florida retailers are ready to help find the perfect gift for your loved ones. Whether it's a friend, partner, spouse or family member, you can 'Find It In Florida' and discover the perfect way to say 'I love you'."

2023 marks the second-highest year on record for Valentine's Day since 2004. A recent survey from the National Retail Federation reveals that the special holiday occasion has consumers embracing spending on friends and loved ones with a forecast of $26 billion, up from $23.9 billion last year.

With more than half (52%) of consumers planning to partake in the festivities, the focus of Valentine's Day has expanded beyond significant others and family members with shoppers looking to honor the other meaningful relationships in their lives. 

As the average shopper plans to spend more this year, the $17 per-person increase from $175.41 the previous year is attributed to additional gift purchases for pets, friends, co-workers and classmates.

Over half of Floridians plan to purchase their gifts online (35%) or at a department store (34%), while others will shop at discount stores (31%) or specialty stores (18%).

The top five Valentine's Day gifts shoppers plan to buy this year include: 

• Candy - 57%
• Greeting cards - 40% 
• Flowers - 37%
• An evening out - 32%
• Jewelry - 21%

While more than a quarter (32%) of shoppers plan to gift a special experience, more than $5.5 billion is forecasted to be spent on jewelry and $4.4 billion spent on a special night out. 

While shoppers look for the perfect Valentine, "Find It In Florida" and shop local retailers. Supporting local retail boosts the local economy and supports community businesses. Learn more about the "Find It In Florida" program at the website. 

For more information on the predictions of the National Retail Federation, visit: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/consumers-plan-increase-valentines-day-spending-nearly-26-billion

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers contribute $239 billion to the economy every year and support 3.6 million jobs for Florida families, or nearly one-third of all jobs in the state. Florida retailers pay more than $69 billion in wages annually and collect and remit more than $35 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
The National Retail Federation, the world’s largest retail trade association, passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail thrive. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 52 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEMBER 22, 2022

CONTACT: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
(202) 680-9262

Tallahassee, FL –  With Thanksgiving just around the corner, the Florida Retail Federation (FRF) announced more people than ever will participate in holiday shopping between Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday. A recent survey revealed that an estimated 166.3 million shoppers will head to the store, a nearly 8 million increase in shoppers over 2021.

"Floridians who are feeling the impacts of inflation and looking to cut costs this holiday season can 'Find It In Florida' and save on purchases at their local retailers," said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. “With a record-breaking amount of shoppers expected, our Florida retailers have staffed up stores to help you save while you fulfill your holiday shopping list."

Over two-thirds (69%) of consumers plan to shop during Thanksgiving weekend. An increase in in-store traffic during the Thanksgiving holiday can be attributed to customers looking to take advantage of value pricing. Most plan to take advantage of Black Friday savings with 69% (114.9 million) of consumers planning to shop that day. The second most popular day remains Cyber Monday as 38% (63.9 million) of shoppers will search for savings online.

Some of the reasons consumers are shopping over the weekend include:

• Deals are too good to pass up - 59%
• Holiday tradition - 27%  
• Something to do  - 22%

About 60% of shoppers began purchasing holiday items in early November. More than half (54%) of shoppers plan to purchase gift cards, with total spending expected to reach $28.6 billion. Top gift cards include restaurant (27%), department store (26%) and bank-issued cards (25%).

The 2022 top holiday gifts that consumers plan to purchase are: 

• Clothing or accessories - 55%
• Gift cards - 45% 
• Toys - 37%
• Books or other media - 33%
• Food & candy - 31%
• Personal care or beauty items - 26%
• Electronics - 24%
• Home décor or furnishings - 21%
• Jewelry - 20%
• Sporting goods or leisure items - 17%

Barbie and LEGOs continue to hold first place as the hottest items for girls and boys for the third year.

The most popular toys for girls and boys in 2022, ranked, include: 

Girls

1. Barbie
2. Doll
3. LOL Dolls
4. LEGO
5. Makeup
6. Squishmallows
7. American Girl / Apparel*
8. Disney-related items
9. Baby doll
10. Cell phone / Magic Mixies*

*Choices tied in ranking

Boys

1. LEGO
2. Hot Wheels
3. Cars/trucks
4. PlayStation
5. Video games
6. Pokémon
7. Nerf
8. Electric/RC cars
9. Dinosaurs
10. Xbox

This holiday season, when shoppers "Find It In Florida" and shop local retailers, they help boost the local economy and support community businesses. Learn more about the "Find It In Florida" program at the website.

For more information on the predictions of the National Retail Federation, visit: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/record-1663-million-shoppers-expected-during-thanksgiving-weekend.

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
The National Retail Federation, the world’s largest retail trade association, passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail thrive. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 52 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEMBER 7, 2022

CONTACT: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
(202) 680-9262

Tallahassee, FL –  Floridians are already preparing for the holidays as shoppers stock up on gifts and seasonal items. According to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation, despite the concerns about inflation, 62% of shoppers believe that it is important to spend on holiday gifts and celebrations. In fact, the holidays are poised to be even more festive as 91% of shoppers plan to celebrate this year. 

Nearly half of consumers (46%) started purchasing items off their holiday lists before November. Most shoppers (60%) have strategized to spread out their gift-shopping budget to avoid additional stress during the holiday season. 

"The winter holiday season is an extra special time for Floridians to exchange gifts and celebrate with their family and friends," shares Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. "During this season of giving, Florida retailers are here to provide a stress-free shopping experience so you can focus on what matters most this holiday season, your loved ones. Remember to support your local retailers and Find it in Florida."

Many shoppers (44%) are feeling the pressure of rising costs and limited availability, purchasing holiday gifts and other items early in order to avoid the possibility of products becoming more expensive. 

Additional reasons consumers are shopping early this holiday season include:

• To avoid the stress of last-minute shopping - 43%
• To avoid crowds - 42%
• Prices and promotions are too good to pass up - 39%
• To avoid missing out on specific items - 32%

This year's holiday retail sales are forecasted to grow between 6% and 8% during November and December with sales reaching between $942.6 billion and $960.4 billion, over 2021. Consumers will spend an average of $832.84 on gifts and holiday items including decorations and food. 

Gift cards remain the top gift as 54% of shoppers listed them as the highest on their wish list. Other top gifts include:

• Clothing and accessories - 49%
• Books and other media - 30%
• Electronics - 24%
• Home decor - 23%
• Jewelry - 21%
• Personal care - 20%
• Sporting goods - 18%
• Home improvement - 17%
• Other - 7%

While e-commerce remains strong this year, with 56% of shoppers planning to purchase items online, Floridians have returned to in-store purchases to take advantage of the traditional holiday shopping experience. This year's expected household shift to in-store shopping has caused a decrease in e-commerce purchases compared to the 57% of consumers who planned to shop online in 2021.

This year’s other top holiday shopping destinations include: 

• Discount stores - 48%
• Department stores - 47%
• Grocery stores - 45%
• Clothing & accessories stores - 31%
• Local retail stores or small businesses - 24%
• Electronics store - 20%
• Crafts store - 17%
• Other specialty stores - 12%
• Drug store - 12%
• Thrift store - 12%
• Outlet store - 11%
• Catalog - 7%
• Other - 3%

This holiday season, when shoppers "Find It In Florida" and shop local retailers, they help boost the local economy and support community businesses. Learn more about the "Find It In Florida" program at the website. 

For more information on the predictions of the National Retail Federation, visit: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/nrf-predicts-healthy-holiday-sales-consumers-navigate-economic.

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
The National Retail Federation, the world’s largest retail trade association, passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail thrive. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 52 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OCTOBER 20, 2022

CONTACT: AMANDA BEVIS
(202) 680-9262

The Florida Retail Federation Celebrates Florida's Men & Women in Blue at Annual Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award Dinner

ORLANDO, FL – The Florida Retail Federation (FRF) honored Detective Sergeant Nicholas Ferrara of the Gainesville Police Department Tuesday night at the 2022 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Awards Dinner. 

Detective Sergeant Ferrara is known globally for his proficiency in facial recognition technology, automatic license plate readers, and expertise in open-source intelligence. Nicknamed “The Wizard” Detective Sergeant Ferrara has successfully identified more than 1,000 witnesses, offenders and victims in support of law enforcement investigations.

“His passion for people, partnership and technology has enabled Detective Sergeant Ferrara to identify countless suspects involved in criminal activity, not only in Florida but across the globe,” said Dan Doyle, Executive Committee Member of the Florida Retail Federation, and Chief Human Resources Officer at Bealls. “He is a tremendous partner to retailers throughout our state, and his willingness to work with other law enforcement agencies to close organized retail crime cases is exceptional.”

Detective Sergeant Ferrara has been part of the Gainesville Police Department for more than 25 years. Throughout this time, he has built an extensive network of contacts to support his investigations- if he doesn’t have the answer, he knows someone who does.  His impact reaches far beyond the city limits of Gainesville, and beyond state lines as he partners with other law enforcement agencies, retailers and financial institutions across the nation and as far as the United Kingdom.

As a result of his efforts, Detective Sergeant Ferrara has successfully identified offenders involved in murder, serial rapists, international organized crime, large-scale credit card fraud and multi-million-dollar schemes.

“Florida's retailers are proud to partner with Florida’s law enforcement officers to keep our communities and businesses safe,” said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the FRF. “Law enforcement is our greatest ally in combatting organized retail crime. We are grateful for all of Florida’s law enforcement officers who selflessly serve  to protect our communities.”

FRF also recognized the 2022 runner-up, Detective Diane Wantuck of the Coral Springs Police Department. During her 17 years with the agency, Detective Wantuck has successfully unraveled organized retail crime offenders, groups and fences, and is an invaluable partner in fighting ORC throughout South Florida

Since 1974, the FRF has cherished the tradition of celebrating Florida’s outstanding law enforcement community for their dedication to keeping Florida residents safe. This year the selection committee for the FRF awards program received dozens of worthy nominations with endless accounts of heroism and selflessness in the line of duty.

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OCTOBER 6, 2022
CONTACT: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
(202) 680-9262

Florida Retailers are Stocked and Ready to Help Shoppers Find All They Need for A Delightfully Frightful Holiday Season.

Tallahassee, FL – Halloween is poised to be more popular than ever this year. According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, 69% of shoppers plan to celebrate the frightful holiday this year, an increase from 65% in the previous year. Data reveals that the spike in ghouls and ghosts planning to celebrate this year will bring a record spending estimate of $10.6 billion, an increase over $10.1 billion in 2021. 

"Florida shoppers are thrilled more than ever to celebrate Halloween," shared Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. "Many have already started their seasonal shopping. Luckily, Florida retailers have stocked up on costumes, candy, decorations and more to help families and children have a delightful, frightful holiday. Whether you're trick-or-treating, hosting a Halloween party, planning a neighborhood hayride or just handing out candy, remember to shop local and support Florida retail."

Nearly half of shoppers (47%) began shopping for Halloween last month. Those preparing for the October holiday are looking forward to a variety of spooky activities. The top Halloween activities this year include: 

• Handing out candy - 67% 
• Decorating their home or yard - 51%
• Dressing up in a costume - 47% 
• Carving a pumpkin - 44% 
• Throwing or attending a Halloween party - 28% 

Nationally, consumers plan to spend $100 on average, for Halloween candy, cards, costumes and decor. Children's and adult costumes will be the most popular purchase this year with spending expected to reach $2.9 billion, breaking the highest forecast since 2017. 

For a second consecutive year, Spiderman will be the top children's costume this year, and princess settles for the number two spot again.

1. Spiderman 
2. Princess
3. Witch
4. Ghost
5. Batman / Superhero 
6. Pumpkin
7. Zombie
8. Vampire
9. Pirate
10. Superman

Pet owners who plan to include their furry friend in the festivities will spend $710 million this Halloween. Shoppers still cannot get enough of pumpkin, as the survey reveals the beloved orange squash as the fan-favorite costume for pets for the seventh year in a row. The top five pet costumes are: 

• Pumpkin - 9 percent
• Hot Dog - 5 percent
• Bat - 4 percent
• Bumblebee - 3 percent
• Witch - 3 percent

Consumers continue to find ways to save money, with 40% of shoppers planning to purchase their Halloween gear from discount stores, 36% looking toward specialty Halloween or costume stores, and 31% planning to shop online.

Shoppers can "Find It In Florida" and support Florida retailers when stocking up this Halloween. Supporting local retailers helps boost the local economy and community businesses. Learn more about the "Find It In Florida" program at the website. 

For more information on the predictions of the National Retail Federation, visit: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/halloween-participation-returns-pre-pandemic-levels-record-spending 

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JULY 20, 2022
CONTACT: Amanda Bevis (202) 680-9262

“Tax savings on back-to-school items will provide welcome relief to Florida families,” said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. “Stock up July 25 through August 7 at your local Florida retail store. Many stores are offering additional sales to help families find savings get what they need to succeed this school year. Remember to ‘Find It In Florida’ and support local retailers when shopping for back-to-school items.”

The following items are available for purchase tax-free from July 25 through August 7:

• Clothing, footwear, and certain accessories with a sales price of $100 or less per item;
• Certain school supplies with a sales price of $50 or less per item;
• Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles with a sales price of $30 or less; and
• Personal computers and certain computer-related accessories with a sales price of $1,500 or less, when purchased for noncommercial home or personal use.

Families can also find additional tax-free savings on the retail sale of children’s diapers and baby and toddler clothing, apparel, and footwear, now through June 30, 2023, and children’s books (children ages 12 or younger) through August 14, 2022.

A recent survey conducted by the National Retail Federation revealed that 25% of consumers have already started shopping for school supplies. As inflation continues to impact families, 38% of consumers plan to cut back spending in other areas to cover back-to-school purchases.

Total back-to-school spending this year is matched with 2021’s forecast of $37 billion. Households with children who are K-12 students will spend $864 on average on supplies for the new school year, approximately $15 more than last year. College students and their families will spend around $1,199 on average this year. Electronics remain the top spending category for back-to-school and college shopping.

There are more than 270,000 retail stores in Florida, and one in five jobs is tied to Florida retail. When shoppers “Find It In Florida" and shop local retailers, they help boost the local economy and support community businesses. Learn more about the "Find It In Florida" program at the website.

Visit www.fldoe.org to learn more about what you need to prepare and help your children return to school safely. For a full list of eligible tax-free supplies, please visit FloridaRevenue.com/BacktoSchool.

This year’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday was established when Governor DeSantis signed HB 7071 into law on May 6.

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $52 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $35 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JUNE 27, 2022
CONTACT:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (202) 680-9262

Tallahassee, FL — The Florida Retail Federation encourages Floridians to take advantage of the cost savings and shop local during the second annual Freedom Week Tax-Free Holiday. Shoppers can make tax-free purchases on a large variety of outdoor and recreational supplies beginning this Friday.

“Now is the time for Floridians to enjoy a discount on summer fun,” said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. “Thanks to the leadership of the Florida Legislature and Governor Ron DeSantis, shoppers can once again find tax-free savings on all eligible summer essentials during the 2022 Freedom Week Tax Holiday. Florida retailers are ready to help Floridians find what they need to make the most of their summer. Don’t forget to shop local and “Find It In Florida.” When you support Florida retail stores, you’re supporting Florida jobs and Florida families.”

The tax-free savings of the 2022 Freedom Week Sales Tax Holiday includes boating and activity supplies, camping and fishing gear, sporting equipment and entertainment, and more.

The tax holiday begins this Friday, July 1, and runs seven days through Thursday, July 7.

The criteria for tax-free savings on boating and water activities include:

• The first $75 on the price of boating and water activity supplies;
• The first $35 on the price of recreational pool tubes, floats, inflatable chairs and pool toys;
• The first $50 on the price of safety flares;
• The first $75 on life jackets and coolers;
• The first $150 on the price of water skis, wakeboards, kneeboards, and recreational inflatable water tubes or floats;
• The first $300 on the price of paddleboards and surfboards;
• The first $500 on the price of canoes and kayaks;
• The first $75 on the price of paddles and oars; and
• The first $25 on the price of snorkels, goggles, and swimming masks.

Floridians may also enjoy tax-free purchases on the following camping supplies:

• The first $200 on the purchase of tents;
• The first $50 on the price of sleeping bags, portable hammocks, camping stoves, and collapsible camping chairs; and
• The first $30 on the price of camping lanterns and flashlights.

Florida shoppers more interested in fishing can find savings on:

• The first $75 on the price of individual rods and reels; or
• The first $150 on the price of a set of rods and reels;
• The first $30 on the price of tackle boxes or bags; and
• The first $5 on the price of individual bait or fishing tackle; or 
• The first $10 on the price of multiple bait and tackle items sold together.

Other recreational savings include tax-free purchases such as:

• Up to the first $15 on the price of sunscreen or insect repellant;
• The first $100 on a pair of sunglasses;
• The first $200 on a pair of binoculars;
• The first $30 on the price of water bottles;
• The first $50 on the price of hydration packs;
• The first $250 of the sales price of outdoor gas or charcoal grills;
• The first $50 of the sales price of bicycle helmets;
• The first $250 of the sales price of bicycles;
• The first $100 on residential pool and spa replacement parts;
• The first $150 on residential pool and spa chemicals; and
• The first $40 on sports equipment.

Floridians can also save on equipment used for individual or team sports purposes. This does not include clothing or footwear selling for $40 or less.

Other items that you can purchase tax-free include the following events scheduled from July 1 through December 31, 2022:

• Live music events;
• Live sporting events;
• Movies at the movie theater;
• Entry to a museum, including annual passes;
• Entry to a state park, including annual passes;
• Entry to a ballet, play, or musical theatre performance;
• Season tickets for ballets, plays, music events, or musical theatre performances;
• Entry to a fair, festival, or cultural event; or
• Access or use of private and/or membership clubs providing physical fitness facilities.

This year’s Freedom Week Tax-Free Holiday was established when Governor DeSantis signed HB 7071 into law on May 6.

The Florida Retail Federation encourages Floridians to shop local and" Find It In Florida" when browsing for their summer gear. Whether you enjoy camping, fishing, or just relaxing at the beach, when shoppers "Find It In Florida" and shop local retailers, they help boost the local economy and support community businesses. Learn more about the "Find It In Florida" program at the  website.

ABOUT  THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $52 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 20, 2022
CONTACT:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (202) 680-9262

Tallahassee, FL – Governor Ron DeSantis signed on Friday Senate Bill 1534, Retail Theft, by Senator Jim Boyd and Representative Chuck Clemons into Florida law. 

The new statute defines and applies third-degree and second-degree felonies for individuals or those in consort with one or more persons who commit two or occurring in a limited period of time in various merchant locations. 

"This measure will protect Floridians and Florida retailers by curtailing criminal activity in stores and holding thieves accountable for their actions," said Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. "We are grateful for the support of Governor DeSantis for signing SB 1534 into law and for the leadership of Attorney General Ashley Moody, Senator Jim Boyd and Representative Chuck Clemons to crack down on organized retail crime in Florida."

To read SB 1534, visit:  https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2022/1534.

ABOUT  THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2022
CONTACT: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (202) 680-9262

Tallahassee, FL – This Father's Day, consumers are expected to spend an average of $171.79 to show dad some much-needed love, according to the latest survey released by the National Retail Federation (NRF).

"Shoppers are focused on finding new and creative ways to honor dad this Father's Day," says Scott Shalley, president and CEO of the Florida Retail Federation. "Remember, Florida retailers are here to provide the perfect gift for the father figures in your lives. When you shop local and 'Find it in Florida', you are helping support your community and local economy."

Three in four (76%) of American adults plan to celebrate the holiday, which falls on Sunday, June 19, this year. Nearly half of shoppers (44%) are prioritizing unique or different gifts this Father's Day, and 37% are looking to create a special memory with their gift.

One-quarter of shoppers plan to give dad a "gift of experience," while 37% are interested in gifting a subscription box this Father's Day.

Shoppers will spend, on average, $32.29 per person to take dad on a special outing to his favorite restaurant. Additional top spending gift categories for Father's Day include: 

• Clothing - $26.62
• Gift Cards - $23.02
• Electronics - $19.32
• Personal Care - $11.93
• Home improvement/gardening - $11.60
• Tools or appliances - $11.03
• Sporting or leisure items - $9.86
• Automotive accessories - $8.59
• Greeting cards - $7.38
• Books or CDs - $6.05
• Other - $4.09

Forty percent of Father's Day gifts are expected to be purchased online while 34% of consumers plan to shop at department stores. Tied at 22%, the remaining shoppers will look towards specialty stores or discount stores to find that special item for dad.

This Father's Day, remember to "Find It In Florida" and support local retailers while shopping for dad. Your support for local retail helps boost the local economy and invests in community businesses. Learn more about the "Find It In Florida" program here. 

For more information on the forecast released by the National Retail Federation, visit: https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/consumers-spend-20-billion-fathers-day-gifts

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION
The Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers -- the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.