Easter and Passover holidays spur spending in region

Even in these difficult economic times, some traditions are continuing. Easter and Passover are fueling some holiday spending.

Even in these difficult economic times, some traditions are continuing. Easter and Passover are fueling some holiday spending.

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In a nondescript former sewing factory in the Harrogate section of Philadelphia sits the Blasius Candy Factory. Owner Phil Kerwick says his business is up.

Kerwick: Easter’s been very good this year last year with Easter being early it was off 10 percent and it’s up about 10 percent this year, people are very into their children for Easter.

Kerwick says Easter candy is about half of their year’s business. Another tradition is buying a new suit for holiday services. Gary Ginzberg runs Suit Corner in Center City. He says sales are up because his store is unique. A Nielsen survey says nearly 71 million pounds of candy are sold during Easter week, second only to Halloween, and consumers are expected to spend more money on matzo than any other week of the year.