Drink, beauty, food and toiletry products are the top four regifted items
With Christmas around the corner, the pressure of buying presents can be too much for some, particularly this year amidst the cost-of-living crisis. This may tempt many people to regift this year – receiving a gift and then giving it to someone else.
A recent survey conducted by international delivery company PACK & SEND investigated the trends in people’s regifting habits, highlighting a large proportion of us repurpose our presents.
A shocking 89 percent of respondents reported they had regifted a present before. Of those that did, 38 percent had regifted a present to their partner and 34 percent to a co-worker. Siblings and friends are most likely to receive a regifted present, since both had 39 percent of respondents selecting them.
The most common items to regift were drinks, as 39 percent of respondents said they had regifted items like alcohol or sets of tea or coffee. Beauty products such as perfume and make-up were also popular regifts at 35 percent, closely followed by food (34%) and toiletries (27%).
Over two-thirds of respondents (72%) admitted they plan on regifting items this year. The recent cost-of-living crisis may have influenced this, with over half (53%) reporting that they are more likely to regift this year.
The economies of regifting do seem favourable since under a third (30%) of respondents declared they regift because it’s cheaper than buying something new. However, more common reasons are that it’s convenient (38%), it’s good for the environment (37%) and they think the person they give the present to, will appreciate it more (36%).
Interestingly, one in 10 (10%) admitted they’ve regifted a present to someone because they don’t like them enough to buy something new. At least it’s better than not getting them anything!
If you decide to regift this year, there are some key things to consider for discreetness:
- Avoid regifting within the same circle – friends with good memories might recognise a present from a previous Christmas. In the worst case, you risk giving them a present they gave you!
- Only regift a present if it’s in perfect condition – giving someone a used or broken present is a step too far, and they’re likely to realise
- Keep the recipient in mind – regifting is much more acceptable if the recipient will appreciate the gift
- Elevate the presentation – repackage items well and wrap them neatly, to give the appearance of being brand new.
Lastly, with postal strikes happening in the lead-up to Christmas, a staggering 90 percent of respondents reported they are concerned about delays when sending presents in the post.
Mike Ryan, Chief Executive at Pack & Send commented:
“With the cost-of-living rising for so many, it’s unsurprising to see 72 percent of respondents plan on regifting this Christmas. In fact, this could become the new norm as consumers limit their spending in the coming months.
“And while delays are always possible around the festive period, the recent postal strikes have understandably caused further panic. For peace of mind, I recommend checking with individual providers to ensure your parcel arrives ahead of the big day. “