New research* from CommBank Rewards^ found 64 per cent of Australians consider themselves to be romantics, with nearly half of people hunting for bargains to show their affection.

According to the research – commissioned by CBA’s loyalty program offering cashback to customers for their everyday shopping – 51 per cent of Australians say they are romantic, depending on the circumstances, while 13 per cent consider themselves true romantics.

42 per cent of Australians intend to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year.  And for those splashing out on gifts, the research shows Australians intend to spend an average of $95 on their Valentine, including dining out.

While Australians are happy to spend money on their valentine, the research found many people are keen for a deal. Around 46 per cent of people regularly hunt for deals, cashback offers or reward points, according to the research.

CBA Executive General Manager, Everyday Banking, Kate Crous said: “Even though we’re a nation of romantics, Aussies are sensible shoppers and are regularly on the lookout for deals. So love doesn’t have to strain your purse strings.”

With CommBank Rewards, eligible CBA customers have access to a range of cash back offers suited to them.

“It’s all about personalisation, so customers get deals and offers that are specific to them and to places we think they might like” Ms Crous said.  

Commenting on how Australians partaking in Valentine’s Day this year will celebrate, Ms Crous said: “Despite the ongoing uncertainty, COVID-19 hasn’t put a damper on our romantic spirit, with nearly half of Australians (48 per cent) opting to dine out, while 27 per cent will order in at home. The past 12 months have been tough on the hospitality industry so it’s good news that many people are continuing to support their local restaurants and cafes this Valentine’s Day either by ordering food or dining out.”

Around 24 per cent of Australians say they will celebrate by staying at home and whipping up their own meal.

According to the research, the top Valentine’s gifts that people will be buying for their significant other include:

  1. Flowers - 32 per cent
  2. Chocolate - 31 per cent
  3. Food - 28 per cent
  4. Perfume / aftershave - 23 per cent

To acknowledge Valentine’s Day this year, CommBank Rewards has partnered with Australian businesses offering cash back on Valentine’s Day gifts. Eligible CBA customers can get cash back deals for a limited time with retailers including Mr Roses, Edible Blooms, Adore Beauty, Peter Alexander, Menulog and RedBalloon.

James Stevens, Founder and CEO of leading online florist, Mr Roses, said sentiment around Valentine’s Day has improved year on year, with sales on Valentine’s Day typically 10 times higher than normal volumes.

Commenting on the most popular gifts during this time Mr Stevens said: “A dozen red roses are a classic gift and typically the most requested arrangement to express love at Valentine’s Day.”

CommBank Rewards, offered through the CommBank app, has a range of retail partners where customers can shop and get cash back on everyday purchases, when they spend with their CBA debit or credit card.   

The program offers customers access to personalised offers based on where they shop, and includes cashback savings on 100 plus retailers across dining, clothing, experiences, entertainment and electronics.

For more about CommBank Rewards or for the current offers visit https://www.commbank.com.au/digital-banking/rewards.html

*Research is undertaken by Fifth Quadrant from 29th January to 1st February 2021 and includes responses from a representative sample of 1,043 Australians aged 18 and over

^CommBank Rewards is the bank’s cashback offer program and is available to eligible CBA customers. Eligible customers include CBA credit or debit Mastercard customers that are at least 18 years old, are not in hardship, are not in default with any CommBank accounts and can access CommBank Rewards through the latest version of the CommBank app. Terms and conditions apply to CommBank Rewards and can be found at www.commbank.com.au/commbankrewards