Love is in the air, and so is a business boom! Valentine’s Day 2025 has turned into a multi-billion-rupee economic event, with India’s gift market surging to ₹28,500 crore, reflecting record-breaking consumer spending across flowers, jewellery, chocolates, apparel, and e-commerce platforms. At the heart of this floral frenzy is Pune’s Maval taluka, which has exported 2 crore roses worldwide and supplied 80 lakh roses to the domestic market, making it one of the country’s top contributors to Valentine’s Day sales.
Roses in Demand: Pune’s Maval Farmers Cash In
For flower farmers in Maval taluka, this season is nothing short of a jackpot. The region, known for its high-quality roses, has seen massive orders from global markets including Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
- International buyers are paying ₹14 to ₹16 per rose.
- Domestic prices are even higher at ₹17 to ₹20 per rose in wholesale markets.
- Retail prices in Indian cities have skyrocketed to ₹30-₹40 per flower.
Despite this demand, a 25% dip in exports is expected due to higher freight costs and early harvesting caused by warmer weather. Freight charges to destinations like New Zealand have increased from ₹250 per kg to ₹500 per kg, impacting profits. Yet, with the Valentine’s rush, Maval’s farmers are still celebrating a profitable season.
Beyond Flowers: A Boom Across the Gifting Industry
While roses remain the symbol of love, they are just one part of the massive ₹28,500 crore Valentine’s economy.
- Jewellery sales have soared, with consumers opting for gold, silver, and personalized jewellery as gifts.
- E-commerce platforms are witnessing a huge rise in sales, with many opting for customized gifts, hampers, and premium chocolates over traditional store-bought items.
- Luxury brands and fashion retailers are seeing sales comparable to the festive season, as people invest in date-night outfits and high-end accessories.
- Quick-commerce platforms like Zomato and Swiggy are cashing in on same-day deliveries of cakes, chocolates, and flowers, catering to last-minute shoppers.
- Hotels and restaurants are fully booked, with couples splurging on romantic dining and weekend getaways.
The Rise of Online Valentine’s Shopping
Changing shopping habits are shaping how people celebrate Valentine’s Day. Online platforms have seen a major jump in transactions, as more people prefer doorstep delivery of flowers, gifts, and experiences.
- Digital gifting portals report a spike in revenue, with personalized gifts becoming the top choice.
- Subscription-based gifts, like flower deliveries and chocolate boxes, are trending among young consumers.
- Social media and influencer-driven shopping are playing a key role, with brands offering exclusive Valentine’s discounts and limited-edition products.
Valentine’s Day: From a Simple Tradition to a Big Business Event
Once just a romantic occasion, Valentine’s Day has transformed into one of India’s biggest retail events, ranking alongside festivals like Diwali and Raksha Bandhan in terms of consumer spending.
With more people willing to spend on premium gifts and experiences, businesses from local rose farmers to global luxury brands are benefitting from the love economy.
Whether it’s a ₹40 rose from a street vendor, a ₹50,000 diamond necklace, or a romantic ₹5,000 dinner date, Valentine’s Day 2025 is not just about love—it’s about big business.
