The year might be winding down for many business sectors - but, for online-dating services, immediately before and after New Year's is a peak time for attracting new customers.

As Americans make their New Year's resolutions, beginning a new relationship will be a top priority for singles, and that translates into a surge in new customers for online dating services - which is exactly what the two leaders in online dating, eHarmony and Match.com, want to hear, the Financial Times writes.

But industry-leader Match.com's market share has been eroded in recent years as eHarmony has positioned itself as creating long-term relationships for customers. Match.com has countered by partnering with Phil McGraw, better known as relationship-expert Dr. Phil.

In any event, among all online dating services the most growth is from Baby Boomers, whereas in the past twenty-somethings were the biggest growth group.

"We are definitely fighting for the same consumer," said Greg Waldorf, eHarmony's chief executive. Baby boomers are the sort of singles, as Match.com CEO Jim Safka put its, for whom "this ain't their first rodeo."