Easter Sunday falls on March 27, 2016 which is one week earlier than last year. As we move through the Easter run-up week, the consumer mindset will quickly shift away from winter and back to spring, say analysts at Planalytics. Looking ahead to the Easter weekend (March 25-27), businesses throughout North America can expect above normal temperatures in most markets. The strongest warmth compared to normal will be along the West Coast and from the Plains to the East Coast. The Ohio Valley, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast regions can expect intermittent showers leading up to the Easter holiday, meaning those with outdoor activities may want to have a ‘Plan.’ Rain and the possibility of severe weather are also expected to return to the already saturated South Central region, which will exacerbate recent flooding conditions. The Pacific Northwest and western Canada should also expect an active precipitation pattern throughout the week.
The warmth over the last few weeks has resulted in many consumers thinking and purchasing spring, says Planalytics. The warming conditions during the Easter run-up period will help drive demand for seasonal apparel as well as live goods. Western locations can expect strong gains for both spring apparel and consumables. Sandals, short sleeve shirts, cold beverages, and suncare will be in demand as temperatures rise above normal. Portions of the Northeast can anticipate increases for similar items as well. Traffic into restaurants will also be favorable for many over the holiday weekend. For reference, the run-up week to Easter last year (March 29 – April 4, 2015) in the U.S. and Canada was the warmest since 2012 with below normal rain. Easter Sunday last year (April 5, 2015) in the U.S. and Canada was the coldest since 2008 with below normal rain.
