Worldpay Study Reveals 95% Increase in Post-Valentine’s Day Returns

Finding just the right gift can be a difficult feat at any time on any occasion, and Valentine’s Day is no exception.

The more traditional present for the big day of love is a sweet card, chocolates and flowers. Some venture outside of that box to buy their significant other anything from clothing to watches, jewelry and more.

According to research from payments company Worldpay, the romance attachment to these gifts fizzles out not long after the love fest ends. Results from its month-long research in Feb. 2016 found returns processed on Feb. 17 saw an overwhelming 95 percent increase from Feb. 14.

Why are so many people returning Valentine’s Day gifts shortly after the big day?

It turns out most of the returns — specifically, 99 percent — can all be attributed to clothing. This isn’t quite shocking as it can be tough to get the right fit.

Worldpay North America Global eCom General Manager Casey Bullock further discussed this part of the research: “In the fashion industry, there is an increasing trend for returning among consumers. Thanks to the ease of internet shopping, people can simply buy a variety of gifts in numerous styles and sizes knowing that they can return what they don’t like. In order to find the perfect gift, we believe partners are buying more than one gift knowing they will return what is less than perfect for their better half. Fashion retailers must be prepared for the days following Valentine’s and get ready to process more refunds than usual.”

So, while consumers are buying more clothing for their sweethearts, this study points to it possibly not being the best choice. For Valentine’s Day this year, it may be more of a safe bet to steer clear of fashion and stick to the good, old standby of a card, chocolates and flowers.