TikTok’s cultural influence is now extending into the workplace, with Secret Santa gifting practices increasingly shaped by viral content and trending products, according to a new survey by instantprint.
The study, which surveyed 2,000 UK office workers, reveals that 68% would prefer to receive a culturally relevant or viral gift – such as a Labubu collectible plush – over traditional items like candles, novelty mugs or bottles of wine. The trend is most pronounced among younger workers, with nearly half of employees under 35 saying they intend to gift something trending this Christmas.
Top five trending Secret Santa gifts in 2025:
- Labubu Collectible Plush – 68%
- Pistachio Flavoured Treats – 54%
- Dubai Chocolate Bars – 46%
- Reusable Aesthetic Water Bottles – 41%
- Pop Culture Keyrings or Pins – 36%
The findings point to a broader shift in workplace culture, where gifting has become less transactional and more expressive. Instantprint reports that 75% of recipients felt viral or trending gifts sparked meaningful conversation and improved social cohesion among colleagues.
Craig Wassell, marketing manager at instantprint, commented: “What we are seeing is a move away from the default Secret Santa experience. Workers now want gifts that carry cultural recognition. It is not about monetary value, it is about showing awareness of current trends and building rapport through shared experiences”
The report also highlights what employees hope not to receive. Items such as socks (52%), soap sets (15%) and shower gel (10%) remain among the most poorly received gifts. Notably, more than 1 in 4 employees have experienced being forgotten entirely in a Secret Santa exchange.
Titled TikTok Is Now Deciding Your Office Secret Santa Gift, the report sheds light on how social media continues to shape office culture in nuanced ways—from internal communications to the smallest acts of recognition.
