National Valentine's Day candy sales up, local candy store sees boost

The National Retail Federation says consumers in the United States will spend an average of $144 dollars this Valentine's Day.

More people are buying candy than last year too, up to 55% compared to 50% of people in 2017. That's not just a national statistic. "We've seen our candy sales increase in double digits compared to last year," says President of Western New York-based Landies Candies, Larry Szrama. 

The day before and Valentine's Day itself are the single busiest days for the candy retailer. "These 48 hours, it's just nonstop because I hate to say it, but men, they're always waiting until the last minute," says Szrama.

The retail space inside the Tri-Main building at 2495 Main Street fronts the production facility. Szrama says his company gives back to the community that supports it. For candy bars sold by the company, donations are made to the Food Bank of WNY and for stuffed pretzels sold donations are made to disaster relief around the world.

Szrama makes an effort to work with Journey's End Refugee Services, hiring staff from more than eight different countries. "It's really important for us to give back and give these kinds of opportunities to people," says Szrama. 

His diverse staff have been preparing for weeks, making pretzels, wrapping gift sets and molding unique chocolate gifts to sell for last minute Valentine's shoppers.

For more information, you can check this website or call Landies Candiesat (716) 834-8212.