As the festive season approaches, the findings shed light on how Christmas gifts, a central tradition of the holidays, often lead to inefficiencies and waste. The survey offers valuable insights into the impact of these missteps, urging both givers and retailers to reconsider their approaches to festive gift-giving.
Christmas Gifts : Many Go Unused or Discarded
A Which? Survey involving over 2,000 respondents revealed that 21% of individuals received unwanted or unsuitable gifts last Christmas. The examples ranged from practical mismatches, such as a vegetarian being gifted roast beef, to humorous oddities like a 19-year-old tumble dryer or regifted shower gel from a previous year.
The data illustrates a troubling trend:
- 30% of recipients discarded items entirely.
- 12% donated their gifts to charity shops.
- 10% passed them on as gifts to others.
- 5% turned to online marketplaces like eBay or Vinted to sell the items.
Consumer experts warn that these responses, though practical, represent a broader issue of wasted effort, resources, and environmental impact during the holiday season. From the energy spent manufacturing and transporting unwanted items to the growing challenge of managing discarded goods, the implications extend beyond individual households.
With the Post Office estimating £232 million worth of gifts returned in early 2023 alone, the financial and ecological consequences underscore the importance of addressing this growing problem in a more thoughtful and sustainable manner.
Practical Advice for Givers and Retailers
The significance of giving recipients flexibility and choice is among the survey‘s main conclusions. According to Lisa Webb, a consumer law expert at Which?, gift-givers should always include gift receipts so that recipients can return or exchange any goods that don’t fit. “It’s always worth getting a gift receipt so your loved one has the option to return their gift if needed,” Webb said.
She also highlighted a common challenge with online purchases: “Sometimes, for online orders, only the buyer can request a refund or exchange. But if the item was marked as a gift when ordered, the retailer’s returns policy may enable a recipient to return or exchange it.”
Retailers, too, have a role to play in mitigating this issue. Policies that simplify the return process for gift recipients can help reduce waste and ensure customer satisfaction. Encouraging shoppers to consider practical or universally appreciated items might also alleviate the problem.
With Christmas approaching, these insights serve as a timely reminder for consumers to rethink their gifting strategies. By focusing on thoughtful and flexible choices, the festive season can be a source of joy for all without unnecessary waste.
