QUINCY, Mass., Nov. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Culinary creativity may win out this year as consumers keep a watchful eye on holiday spending. Baked goods such as pies, cookies and cakes may top this season's list of popular gifts as consumers go back to the basics.

According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), candy and food spending is up about $10 per person, an increase from 2008 when shoppers indicated an average spend of $103 on candy and food for the holidays. It was the only category increase in NRF's 2009 holiday survey.

"Consumers are going to get creative this year," said Andrea Astrachan, consumer advisor at Stop & Shop. "Shoppers know they're going to find deals this season and can feel good about shopping at our stores."

Now through December 10, Stop & Shop customers can earn five to 20 percent off of an in-store purchase through Stop & Shop's Holiday Reward program. Every dollar spent is equal to one Holiday Reward point. Points accrue through December 10 and are redeemable through December 25.

Below are a variety of affordable holiday gift ideas. Astrachan advises shoppers to consider the following:

• Host a dinner party - Instead of gifts invite your friends over for dinner. Encourage guests to bring their favorite dish and host a potluck or explore a progressive dinner party which allows each friend an opportunity to play hostess. Edible centerpieces add value and a splash of color to dinner tables.
• Personalize a gift basket - Make your own gift basket or ask a Stop & Shop store associate for ideas for filling and designing a one-of-a-kind basket. For the sweet tooth on your list, put ingredients for their favorite dessert into a baking pan or bowl, wrap with cellophane and a bow, and include a nicely printed recipe card. Themed baskets make great gifts too. Tempt movie lovers by filling a basket with DVDs, popcorn, soda and their favorite candy.
• Shop the aisles for unexpected stocking stuffers - Fill stockings with quirky, practical items from your local supermarket such as colorful band aids, 100-calorie pack snacks, crayons and markers, or wrap-up indulgent treats that may have fallen outside of your grocery budget.
• Share a family favorite - Pass on Grandpa's gravy recipe or other trademark family dish. Wrap the secret ingredient in a box with the recipe and offer to teach your loved one how to prepare the special dish.
• Spice it up - Spices and seasonings can be pricey so look for Stop & Shop's Weekly Specials or Real Deals, or buy product in bulk. Bag-up your own personal blend of rubs and seasonings and use in gift baskets or as party favors.
  

Shoppers who plan ahead can also save money after the holidays. Astrachan advises shoppers to stock- up on staples and canned goods on sale during the holidays. Turkey lovers should also consider buying an extra turkey - one for your holiday meal and one to freeze for later. According to Astrachan, turkeys will last 6-9 months in a deep freezer.

For recipes and tips visit www.stopandshop.com. Members of the media interested in touring a store or speaking with Andrea about holiday shopping tips should contact Anne Moulin at amoulin@webershandwick.com or by phone at 617-520-7126.

About the Stop & Shop Supermarket Company

The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, headquartered in Quincy, Mass., employs more than 59,000 associates and operates stores throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, New York, and New Jersey. The company is a member of the US Green Building Council and has been awarded LEED (EB) certifications for 50 of its existing stores. Stop & Shop has been recognized by the EPA for the superior energy management of its stores and is also a member of the EPA's Smart Way program.

SOURCE Stop & Shop Supermarket Company

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