Mother’s Day for independent retail – 5 tips to maximise ‘special occasion’ sales

Mother’s Day is a major retail moment in the UK, with billions spent each year and a significant spike in high street activity in the days leading up to the occasion. For independent retailers, some simple strategies can help capture more of this seasonal spending.

Mother’s Day remains one of the most important seasonal moments for UK retailers outside of Christmas. Spending on Mother’s Day in the UK is estimated to reach between £1.67bn and £2.4bn, with around 59% of consumers expected to purchase gifts for the occasion.¹

Crucially for independent retailers, the lead up to Mother’s Day consistently delivers a significant spike in high street activity, with transactions on increasing by around 40% at times compared with the daily average. At the same time, consumer behaviour continues to shift towards more thoughtful, meaningful gifts, often favouring items that feel personal or long-lasting.

This combination of strong demand and changing consumer expectations means that by leaning into the strengths of the high street, businesses can capture more of this seasonal spend.

UK shoppers keep spending on Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day continues to be a strong driver of retail spending in the UK. Total spending in 2025 was estimated at £1.67bn–£2.4bn, reflecting steady annual growth.

Participation remains high, with around six in ten consumers buying gifts, cards or experiences for the occasion. The days immediately before Mother’s Day are particularly valuable for bricks-and-mortar retailers, as shoppers often prefer to purchase gifts in person, especially when buying last minute.

Consumer trends also suggest a growing preference for considered, lasting gifts rather than purely novelty purchases. Categories such as homeware, gadgets and furniture have seen increased revenue in recent years, alongside traditional favourites like flowers, cards and food gifts.

For independent retailers, this shift plays directly to their strengths: unique products, curated selections and the ability to provide a more personal shopping experience.

Supporting local retail: Bira’s ‘Love Your High Street’ campaign

Bira’s Love Your High Street campaign encourages consumers to think locally when shopping on Mother’s Day, and for retailers to encourage their communities to enjoy their high street during these times.

The initiative highlights the value independent retailers bring to their communities and supports them with themed campaigns tied to major seasonal moments. Retailers are encouraged to share promotions and gift ideas on social media using #LoveYourHighStreet, helping increase visibility for local shopping options.

The campaign builds towards Love Your High Street Week, taking place 9–15 November 2026, which celebrates independent retail nationwide.

Love Your High Street this Mother's Day

We're making it easy for both shoppers and businesses to take part in the LYHS campaigns.

Download the official assets and start spreading the word. Share your local finds and make sure to tag Bira with #LoveYourHighStreet.

Get involved

5 quick wins for independent retailers this Mother’s Day

1. Refresh your window display

Your shop window is one of the most powerful tools for capturing seasonal sales. A clear Mother’s Day theme, combined with a small selection of gift ideas and simple signage, can quickly signal to passers-by that your store has suitable gifts available.

2. Create a ‘Gifts under £30’ edit

A clearly priced, curated section helps shoppers make quick decisions. Featuring a selection of thoughtful gifts under a specific price point makes it easier for customers, particularly younger shoppers or those buying multiple gifts, to find something suitable.

3. Offer gift wrapping

Gift wrapping adds convenience and perceived value, especially for last-minute shoppers. Whether complimentary or paid, this small service can increase basket size while making the purchase feel more special.

4. Run a simple social media giveaway

A light-touch campaign such as a ‘Tag your mum (or mother figure)’ competition can help extend your reach locally. Encourage customers to share the post or tag others to enter, and showcase products that could make good gifts.

5. Send a short email gift guide

If you have a customer mailing list, a concise Mother’s Day gift guide can drive both online and in-store sales. Highlight a small number of standout products and remind customers of key dates, opening hours and any services such as gift wrapping.

An ideal opportunity to boost sales as an indie

Mother’s Day represents a valuable opportunity for independent retailers to capture additional sales and showcase the strengths of local shopping. With strong consumer participation and a clear shift towards thoughtful gifts, independent stores are well placed to meet demand.

By combining simple in-store tactics, clear gift curation and early promotion, retailers can maximise sales during Mother’s Day and apply the same approach to other special occasions throughout the year.

Help your community Love Your High Street this Mother's Day

Love Your High Street is designed to help you encourage shoppers onto your high street and into your stores.

Get involved today by sharing the #LoveYourHighStreet message and encourage our communities to shop locally this Mother's Day and all year round!