Generation X Biggest Spenders Treating Mom to a Meal on Her Special Day

Taking mom out to eat on Mother’s Day is a well-established tradition in the United States. Now an analysis of Bank of America data about debit card users shows that Generation X will be spending the most taking her out for a meal next weekend.

Generation X — those born between 1965 to 1977 — will pick up an average of $68 tab on Mother’s Day, the Motley Fool reported.

And Americans, in general, spend 55 percent more at restaurants on Mother’s Day than on an average day, or about $45.

And restaurants aren’t the only retail industry sector to benefit from Americans celebrating moms and spending is on an upward trajectory.

“U.S. consumers are expected to spend a record $25 billion this year on Mother’s Day — and not just at restaurants — an increase from $23.1 billion last year, according to data from the National Retail Federation (NRF),” the Motley Fool reported. “A fairly remarkable 84 percent of U.S. adults are expected to celebrate the day in some way.”

“Mother’s Day spending has been growing consistently over the past several years, and this year’s spending is expected to be the highest in the 16-year history of our survey,” Matthew Shay, NRF president, and CEO, said in the Motley Fool report. ”Consumers are excited to celebrate all the moms in their lives, and retailers are ready to inspire consumers with unique gift options.”

Here are some other ways Americans will ring in the holiday at cash registers around the country.

In 2018 consumers spent an average of $82 on health and beauty and spa gifts, a 3 percent increase over the previous years. Others included:

• Consumers spent $141 at home improvement/furnishing stores.
• Consumers spent $160 at electronics stores.
• Consumers spent $110 at department stores.
• Consumers spent $57 for online purchases.

“That’s not to say that every shopper spent that much in each of those categories,” Motley Fool reported. “The data shows the average amount spent by each person who shopped at that type of store during the weekend.”

The Motley Fool urged consumers not to get in debt to show mom you love her.

“So celebrate mom, but be reasonable about it,” the report concluded. “You can honor the mothers in your life with some time, attention and a home-cooked meal if that’s what your budget allows.”

“Choose what suits your situation, and mom should be pleased. After all, she only wants what’s best for you.”

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