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9 Companies That Turned Valentine's Day Into A $17 Billion Industry

Judith Aquino,Richard FeloniFeb 14, 2014, 21:00 IST

Getty Images/John ParraAccording to the National Retail Federation, 14% of American men plan on buying their significant others lingerie.

While you're busy whispering sweet nothings to your partner on Valentine's Day, a handful of companies will be watching the cash roll in.

This year, the average American is expected to spend $134 on the holiday, up slightly from last year's $131 per person, according to the National Retail Federation. In total, that's an estimated $17.3 billion in annual spending on the day.

Many companies, like 1-800 Flowers and Tiffany & Co., will have one of their biggest days of the year today. Here's a look at nine businesses that started the traditions and stand to profit the most.