Dad won't be feeling the love on Father's Day as much as mom did on her day according to some research from the National Retail Federation. News from their press release:

Higher prices at the pump and the grocery checkout line might be cutting into Father’s Day budgets. According to the National Retail Federation’s 2008 Father’s Day Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch, consumers plan to spend an average of $94.54, compared to last year’s $98.34. Total spending is expected to reach $9.6 billion.

“When it comes to dad, a simple greeting card and family dinner really goes a long way,” said NRF President and CEO Tracy Mullin. “Unfortunately, consumers are torn between their love for dad and their need for gas this year.”

The large majority of consumers (68.4%) will invest in a greeting card for dad, spending an average of $7.49.

8 bucks for a card? That's almost two gallons of gas! Retailers who promote cardmaking can do something fun with this. Why not send out an email with this message:

"Research says consumers will spend an average of $7.49 on a card for dad this Father's Day- check out our Father's day card kits and you can make a great Father's Day card and still have money left over for a gallon of gas!"

And, since many people will be giving gift cards, consider adding a pocket to the card where the giver can tuck in a gift card for gas or otherwise.

You could even cross promote with other local retailers whose businesses are popular with men. Provide them with a couple of card kits to sell alongside gift cards.

Here's a time where cardmaking can be money saving- a timely message if there ever was one.

Enjoy your weekend!--Beth