Forty per cent of UK adults – representing over 18 million people – plan to give at least one used gift to their loved ones this Christmas, according to new research commissioned by MPB. This marks a significant increase on the 26% who planned to do the same at Christmas in 2020.
MPB’s fourth annual poll examining UK attitudes to gifting used has uncovered fascinating insights into the evolving mindset of consumers when it comes to gift-giving during this festive season.
The research reveals an increase in buyers’ considering the environmental sustainability of their gifts, with over half (57%) of adults now doing so, up from 52% last year.
Those planning on giving used can rest assured that their gifts will be well received, as nearly three quarters (73%) of UK respondents would be happy to receive a used gift that’s in good condition. This reflects a significant jump from 45% who said this in 2020, also demonstrating the growing emphasis consumers are placing on sustainability.
Indeed, nearly half (47%) even said they would prefer a used gift to new, with a similar number (52%) admitting they now care more about the gifts they receive being sustainable than they did in the past. More than one in five (21%) consumers said recipients have even asked for those gifting to buy used, up from 17% last year.
As the cost-of-living crisis puts pressure on household incomes, around a third of people (30%) said they couldn’t afford to buy brand-new gifts, which is consistent with responses from this time last year. Nearly half (44%) of adults plan to sell unused belongings to help fund their Christmas present shopping, an increase on last year (40%).
Matt Barker, founder and CEO of MPB, said: “The number of people planning to gift used this year is a reflection of increasing environmental awareness and concern, as well as prolonged pressure from the ongoing high cost-of-living.
“Whatever the drivers, from cutting costs to helping the planet, buying and selling used benefits everyone. It’s promising to see improved confidence around buying and receiving used gifts. While more shoppers are catching on to circular behaviour, there are so many people still unaware of its benefits, and we would encourage them to join the used revolution.
“With the volume of high quality products in re-circulation, including photo and video equipment, consumers have more opportunities to experience the benefits of buying used. As manufacturing quality continues to improve, shelf-lives for such products are only increasing, giving shoppers access to used models which typically cost a third less than the same model new.”
Learn more about MPB’s sustainability commitments at mpb.com/impact.
