SmallBusinessNewz

Mother's Day wasn't great for businesses, according to National Retail Federation estimates, with spending down 10.6 percent on a year-over-year basis.  Father's Day was better, with a decrease of just 3.9 percent occurring.  And now, with the 4th of July approaching, it looks like we might make it back into positive territory.

Although no dollar figures were mentioned, an NRF statement reported, "With the holiday falling on a Saturday, many Americans are planning a memorable celebration: 62.6 percent - or 144 million people - will host or attend a cookout, barbecue or picnic, compared to 61.2 percent (139 million people) in 2008."

Plus, in addition to whatever supplies they'll need for those endeavors, 14 percent of survey respondents expressed interest in buying patriotic gear (like flags, "America" t-shirts, etc.).

Factor in not-low gas prices and the economy causing people to stay close to home, and hopefully small businesses can look forward to significantly improved sales figures this year compared to last.

Given the trends that are getting established, it's not unreasonable to expect (or at least hope) that the next holiday will prove even more profitable for retailers, too.