TRADE NEWS Advertising on social networks will not be invasive Mexx to withdraw from UK retail industry Waterstones aims to improve supply chain Retailers can use domain name to boost online presence Online shoppers unsure of risks Counterfeit goods harming retail industry Majority of internet users shop online Dragon's Den duo see product take off Online sales increase in January Retail sales slow in February Retailers set for Mother's day windfall Mamas & Papas begin retail expansion Independent retailers urged to assess everything Retailers hope to increase internet exposure Ambitious Britons hope to own businesses Retail sales enjoy quarterly growth Retailers retain confidence in the industry Women prepared to walk the earth for retail Retailers urge chancellor to ease burden Retailers urged to curb discounting Internet claiming increasing numbers of high-street shoppers FPB urges competition commission to help smaller retailers Competition commission set to replace code of conduct London retail sales below par in January Online retailers drive to attract new consumers Retailers taking legal obligations seriously UK wholesalers could be shunned by supermarkets US retailers enjoy shock sales rise Women opt for ethical Valentines gifts Retail sales set to face 2008 dip Sales boost January retail figures Retailers set for prosperous Valentine's Day Groups warn on danger of toy imports Government needs to raise small business legal awareness FWD outline annual conference plans Shop price inflation rises eBay abandons buyer negative comments European retail sales dip in December Demand for British goods increases Cashback websites battling high street for customers US wholesale prices increase Organisations to petition bag ban Capital Gains Tax may not be compatible with EU law Archive January trade news 2008   13 February 2008   Retailers set for prosperous Valentine's Day A number of retailers are set to have a profitable February, with consumers likely to increase their spending for Valentines Day, new research has revealed. According to Alliance & Leicester figures, up to £1 billion could be spent for this year's big day, with the average romantic shelling on out £35 on that special someone. It could be an especially good month for florists, and for flower wholesalers, with 36 per cent of men making a last minute dash for roses. Emma Walkley, of Alliance & Leicester, revealed that spending over the next few days could provide a massive boost for business. "Last year's figures showed a rush of romance in the days leading up to the 14th February and the weekend after," she said. "This year is likely to show a similar trend, with florists seeming to be the salvation for those men who have forgotten that Valentine’s Day is upon us and need a last minute purchase, or who struggle finding interesting and imaginative presents," she added.   (c) 2008 Adfero Ltd   Subscribe to The Wholesaler UK regular newsletter featuring trade news, suppliers offers and trade show reminders. . ..