Uncertain economy mutes US Independence Day sales expectations

Three-quarters of those planning celebrations for U.S. Independence Day on 4 July are looking for ways to save money, dampening hopes for robust holiday seafood sales.

Food will figure in celebrations around the country, with 83 percent of celebrators planning to make a purchase for the holiday, but 17 percent of that group expects inflation to have a significant impact on their shopping. An additional 23 percent said it will have a moderate impact and 34 percent said it will have a slight impact, according to an April 2023 survey of 2,600 U.S. consumers completed by data and tech firm Numerator.

Of the 87 percent of U.S. consumers who plan to celebrate Independence Day this year – up from 84 percent in 2022 – 58 percent said they plan on grilling or barbequing and 46 percent said they were hosting or attending a party.

Seafood …

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