Party and costume retailers are preparing for a bumper St. Patrick’s Day, as the typically raucous saint’s day celebrations fall on a Saturday this year.
Taking place on 17 March, St Patrick’s Day is the annual celebration of Ireland’s patron saint, and cities and towns around the world will be holding a wide range of parades and parties.
Party suppliers have launched a wide range of new products for the occasion, from costumes and accessories to balloons, decorations and partyware.
“After years in the doldrums, last year’s St Patrick’s Day suddenly reared its head again, and I think I lot of people were very surprised,” said Mark Brett, UK agent for Boland Party, who thinks 2018 bodes well, thanks to the Saturday date.
“The amazing feature with this event is that it has worldwide appeal,” he continued. ‘There are few major cities in the world that do not have an Irish bar!”
According to Emma Angel, director of Angels Fancy Dress, St Patrick’s Day always sees a spike in sales at the retail level as well. “Customers like to buy comedy products for their night out to really get into the party spirit,” she says. “Fun leprechaun costumes are popular, as are accessories. Retailers should always make some space for an eye-catching St. Patrick’s Day display.”
