Valentine special with a bargain price
Bargain shops have been enjoying a boom as couples across the West Midlands get set for a DIY Valentine's Day at home.
Nurses' outfits and cuddly toys priced just £1 have been flying off the shelves – proving even romance cannot escape the credit crunch. Dinners to cook at home and bottles of bubble bath are also proving popular with shoppers.
At Walsall's 99p store, staff have reported a surge in the number of people stocking up on Valentine's goodies to enjoy at home.
Kamran Ali, manager of the shop in the Old Square Shopping Centre, said the credit crunch was driving more customers through the doors looking for cheaper Valentine-themed products.
"Costumes like the French maid and the fireman are selling really well," he said.
Poundland continues to buck the trend of many struggling stores. Staff said thrifty shoppers looking for a romantic bargain were flocking through the doors.
Ian Stevens, store manager at Poundland in Wolverhampton's Mander Centre, said: "Cards and costumes have been selling well, as have little ornaments and cuddly bears holding hearts.
"It's definitely cheaper than a night out," he added.
Katie Lowe, deputy manager of Poundstretcher in Great Bridge Street, West Bromwich, said: "We have got some fluffy handcuffs for 99p which are selling really well and cards which start from 59p."
Meanwhile, Marks & Spencer is offering its two dine for £10 deal, while Waitrose is offering a starter, main course, side order and pudding for two for £10.
Craig Dawson, of Park Hall, Walsall, was among those hoping to turn on the romance at a budget price.
"Me and my girlfriend are going to stay in and have a romantic meal at home rather than go out," the 26-year-old IT support worker said. "If I can find all the romantic stuff a bit cheaper, then that's even better."
