retail Forecast Predicts $500M Increase In Holiday Spending By Andy Chow • Nov 23, 2016 University of Cincinnati Economics Center Ohioans around the state are expected to swarm to their favorite stores in order to cross items off their holiday gift list. Economic forecasters expect to see a jump in spending, but not as big a hike as usual. Forecast Shows Increase In Holiday Sales By Jo Ingles • Nov 23, 2015 Wikimedia Commons A new report from the University of Cincinnati estimates Ohioans will be spending 4.2% more this holiday season than last.