Card spending data from AIB shows that €143m was spent by the bank's customers on Valentine's Day last year, an increase of 45% on 2024. Fast food restaurants enjoyed their best day of the month on Valentine’s Day, with an average transaction of €17. The data shows women spent more than men at the cinema on Valentine’s Day last year, at 57%. Valentine’s Day was also the best day in February for spending on jewellery, with an average transaction size of €142. AIB’s Head of Consumer, Adrian Moynihan said “Valentine’s Day spending patterns continue to evolve, reflecting not only our love of flowers, food, and supermarket bargains, but also the influence of societal – and sporting - events.

Source: Irish Examiner February 09, 2026 00:13 UTC