Twin Cities survey indicates a big jump in holiday spending; here’s why

Survey: Twin Cities shoppers expect to spend 20% more on gifts, holiday supplies and experiences this year, for a household average of $1,463. Minnesota’s historically low unemployment and recent wage growth are among factors that gave shopper optimism. Professor George John, with the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management, is not as confident. Professor John: ‘My instincts tell me it’s probably a dollar too far and a percentage too far. It’s optimistic, to say the least’ Professor John points to historical trends, showing Twin cities shoppers consistently spend less than the national average, but that trend would reverse dramatically if the survey turns into reality. Others are skeptical. ‘You know, you expect a certain kind of bouncing up and down . . .