Sammie Ellard-King
I’m Sammie, a money expert and business owner passionate about helping you take control of your wallet. My mission with Up the Gains is to create a safe space to help improve your finances, cut your costs and make you feel good while doing it.
Brits are set to spend a record £2.38 billion on Valentine’s Day this year. That’s a 7% increase on last year, according to Parcelhero.
Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday in 2026, which means more people are planning candlelit dinners, cinema trips, and other romantic outings.
What Are People Buying?
Parcelhero’s data shows British shoppers will send 25 million cards, 22 million gifts, and 4 million floral bouquets. On top of that, they’re expected to spend around £85 million on chocolates and confectionery.
People giving Valentine’s gifts will spend an average of £107.52 on jewellery, clothing, and similar items. That’s 5% more than in 2025.
David Jinks, Parcelhero’s head of consumer research, said: “With Valentine’s Day handily falling on a Saturday this year, even more candlelit meals for two, trips to the cinema, etc are on the cards.”
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How Does UK Spending Compare Globally?
A recent Statistica survey shows the UK ranks second only to Hong Kong in average Valentine’s Day spending.
Men typically spend more than women. In Hong Kong, men spent the equivalent of £91 on average while women spent £66. In the UK, men spent an average of £100 and women £65.
That’s more than the US, where men spent £85 and women £65. It’s also higher than Italy, where men spent £86 and women £59 on gifts.
Most People Buy Valentine's Gifts Online
According to the Government’s logistics awareness campaign Generation Logistics, around 75% of people in the UK will buy their Valentine’s gifts online.
While flowers and chocolates are the most common items, there’s also high demand for personalised items, clothing, and lingerie.
Jinks said: “Valentine’s creates a mini seasonal peak for delivery companies and there is always a surge in demand for last-minute, next-day deliveries before 14 February.”
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Disclaimer: Content on this page is for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research before making a financially related decision.
