CARLISLE, Pa. – Whether you’ve already been struck by Cupid’s arrow, plan to enjoy this Valentine’s Day with the kids, or are planning a Galentine’s celebration, GIANT and MARTIN’S recently asked its customers what they love about this holiday in a new survey.
“While there are the staples like candy and flowers, Valentine’s Day is a holiday that can be celebrated a variety of ways depending on who may be your valentine,” said Rebecca Lupfer, chief merchant, The GIANT Company. “Overall, our survey found that customers are opting for meaningful, low-effort celebrations this year, favoring simple treats, a cozy evening at home, and thoughtful gestures. Our GIANT and MARTIN’S stores have you covered with plenty of fresh offerings to make this Valentine’s Day extra special for you and your loved ones.”
Best Valentine’s Gift?
In its annual survey, the National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that consumers plan to spend a record $199.78 on Valentine’s Day gifts this year.
GIANT and MARTIN’S customers were asked to select which of the following – chocolate/candy, flowers, or a card – is the best Valentine’s gift. Survey respondents overwhelmingly voted with their sweet tooth as 33% prefer chocolate or candy. Flowers were a favorite for 20% and 19% chose a card. In addition, 28% of respondents choose something else, often mentioning personalized gifts, thoughtful gestures, or time together.
GIANT and MARTIN’S stores have a variety of chocolate and candy options, both seasonal items and year-round favorites, in addition to a selection of roses, mixed flower bouquets, and fresh arrangements made right in store. Pre-orders available!
The Perfect Valentine
Roses are red, violets are blue, GIANT and MARTIN’S asked who is the prefect Valentine for you? The survey found that 62% of respondents selected a partner/spouse, followed by pets (14%), kids (12% or rising to 22% among parents), and themselves (9%).
Outside of significant others and family members, according to the NRF, 33% of consumers plan to purchase gifts for friends and a record 35% plan to show love for their pets this year.
Dinner in or date night out?
Now that customers have selected who their perfect Valentine is, how are they planning to celebrate? The survey found that many customers prefer to stay home this year (27%, rising to 40% among parents) and 29% aren’t planning a special dinner. However, 23% of respondents are opting for someone else to take care of the meal prep with a date night out and 21% choose takeout at home.
If you’re cozying up at home, GIANT and MARTIN’S offer plenty of freshly prepared heat and eat appetizers and entrees in addition to their online catering service which offers real-time ordering.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries – To Buy or DIY?
This week, team members at local GIANT and MARTIN’S stores will be dipping more than 200,000 strawberries in chocolate. It’s one of the grocer’s most popular seasonal items.
The GIANT and MARTIN’S survey found convenience wins with 39% preferring to buy their chocolate-covered strawberries versus making themselves (27%). Freshly dipped in and decorated in-store, this decadent dessert will be available leading up to Valentine’s Day through the weekend. Pre-orders are available and a 6-count of chocolate covered strawberries is $12.99.
Valentine’s Express
To help customers get in and out of the store quicky this week, each GIANT and MARTIN’S store has set up a designated Sweetheart Express Checkout, reserved just for Valentine’s Day purchases, including flowers, bakery treats, cards, and candy.
About the Survey
The GIANT and MARTIN’S survey was conducted online from Jan. 28 – Feb. 3, 2026. Respondents included adults, ages 18 and older, in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.
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