AliExpress, an international online retail marketplace under Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group, today launched its first Consumer Insights Report of 2025. The report highlights the shift in consumer spending habits with a spending boom on hobbies and personal interests coming into the new year.
This report, which surveyed 2,000 consumers in the UK was commissioned to uncover key trends and insights into online shopping behaviours and shopping patterns. As online and brick-and-mortar retailers continue to brace for a decline in sales heading into 20252, the ongoing cost of living crisis continues to place significant stress on consumers’ pockets globally, however, data reveals a surprising trend.
Consumers are ready to treat themselves
In Q4 of 2024, AliExpress survey data showed that a quarter of people (25%) never buy themselves a gift or reward. However, heading into 2025, Brits are prepared to spend, with almost a third (29%) intending to buy more for themselves this year1.
When looking to spend on themselves this year, just under half of consumers (43%) want to spend money on items that support their hobbies1, with seven out of ten (69%) saying that they are looking for better value for money1.
Spending on hobbies becomes a priority
Compared to Q4 2024, we have seen a focus on spending on things like sporting goods (14%), clothing (35%), and beauty (22%). However, in 2025, Brits are already investing more money in hobbies, with their mean spending nearly doubling (48% increase) year over year.
AliExpress provides products for every hobby you could imagine, including the social media trending colouring books and alcohol markers, candle making kits and knitting supplies, meaning you don’t need to break the bank in order to find an activity you love.
Consumers looking for better value for money
Seven out of ten (69%) of surveyed consumers say that they are looking for better value for money when purchasing in 20251. Marketplaces such as AliExpress offer consumers a wide range of products at competitive prices, further cementing why half of consumers are choosing to spend on marketplaces (51%) in 2025.
Bonnie Zhao, AliExpress UK general manager, said: “This year, we are already seeing a focus on value in the way Brits are shopping. Whether buying for themselves, their homes, their pets or their loved ones, UK shoppers prioritise spending on things that bring them joy. With incredible value and selection on AliExpress, they can find what they are looking for, without compromising on quality.”
