Saying “I love you” with flowers and gifts is getting more expensive every year. For many, the rising prices are a reason to choose not to celebrate Valentine’s Day. But for others, the economic situation hasn’t dampened the mood, as florists say they weren’t expecting so many orders, especially from immigrants.
"We have orders from Italy, Germany, England that were placed 2-3 weeks ago for Valentine's Day. It's mainly boys and men who order. Girls somewhat less. We also have people who come physically as a couple. Roses and tulips are the favorites," Luljeta Bregu, a saleswoman at a flower shop, told A2 CNN.
According to data from the market and the Statistical Institute, compared to last Valentine's Day, chocolates have become more expensive by 15 percent, roses by 20 percent, jewelry by 5 percent, while dinners in restaurants and travel by 5.2 percent and 5.3 percent, respectively, reports A2.
Businesses have tried to tighten profit margins so as not to discourage buyers, while the latter choose to save where they can.
"We try not to raise prices too much, otherwise we will have a drop in purchases. It is better to have a slightly lower price and have sales than to keep them there. The roses generally come from the Netherlands. We also have domestic production, but very little."
Compared to last year, jewelers state that customers are gravitating more towards silver than gold, while those customers who choose gemstones are preferring smaller sizes. (A2 Televizion)
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