Are middle schoolers getting scammed for love?

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY R. GILREATH, COURTESY OF CANVA

Originally published January 23, 2024

   Candy and flower prices have skyrocketed in the past years, especially around Valentine’s Day. But is this because of inflation, or are your favorite candy companies trying to scam you?

   Many middle schoolers like to participate in candy and flower giving as a fun way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, by giving their friends or lovers a little gift to show how much they care for them. But many big candy companies like Hershey’s and Mars raise their prices around this time of year, making Valentine’s Day very expensive.

   “More than half of consumers are planning to celebrate in some way and will spend on average about $192.80. That's up from $175.41 last year, and is the second-highest figure since the National Retail Federation began Valentine's Day tracking in 2004.” CBSNews.com said.

   Even though middle schoolers would probably never spend hundreds of dollars on Valentine’s Day, candy can be a nice alternative to show a little love. In 2023, candy was the most popular Valentine’s gift, especially among middle school students. 

   “I think it’s ok if  we give our friends candy, or maybe send a love note. Though I don’t think we should go too crazy on candy giving,  because we are only middle schoolers and relationships shouldn’t be a priority for us.” sixth-grader Olivia Peltier said. "Especially if we are paying more than $5."

   Candy prices, however have grown in the past few years making candy extra expensive. Prices for candy, chewing gum, movies, restaurants, and dining increase by an average of 10% for Valentine's Day. 

   “Prices for pink foil-wrapped Hershey Kisses and heart-shaped Reese’s have jumped ~11% (estimated) from a year ago (2022).” RetailBrew.com said. “Slightly less festive treats, like a family pack of Oreos, has seen a price jump of at least $1.00 from the same time last year, while the price of ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s and Magnum has been hiked up about 9.7%.” 

   Even with prices increasing, that doesn't stop people from buying the sweet treats they love. Many couples each year still give their partner a gift. Usually a nice bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates, or even a nice, fancy dinner. 

   “I like any type of chocolate. So I don’t mind buying chocolate more on the expensive side, it just depends on the brand and the quality, as well as how much I like the chocolate.” seventh-grader Charlize Aguma said.

   Many people also prefer to spice it up a little bit and buy flowers on Valentine's Day.  Along with candy, flowers are also a very popular gift. With red roses being the most popular flower to be bought.

   “Prior to Valentine's Day in Los Angeles, florists pay an average of 70 cents per stem. That rises to $1.85 per stem for Valentine's Day. The retail price? About $3 to $6 per stem.”  BusinessInsider.com said.

   Even though Valentine's Day is getting more and more expensive each year, it still doesn't take away from the point of celebrating the ones you love, whether its friends, family, or a new special admirer.

   "Giving candy is a good way for middle schoolers to celebrate Valentine's Day, especially if it's candy, everyone loves candy, and it's just a nice gesture to do to someone you appreciate." Aguma said.