Unveil your festive shopping style with this new quiz. Among the possible outcomes are the ‘Last-Minute Legend’ or a ‘Checklist Champ’. A ‘Pre-loved Pro’, someone who loves the thrill of hunting down second-hand treasures with history and heart. As well as the ‘Crafty Creator’, a hands-on gifter who makes their own presents for a truly personal touch.
New research reveals that the typical Christmas shopping spree involves an hour spent queuing and nearly £500 spent on gifts for an average of eight loved ones. On top of that, shoppers make three separate trips to five different stores, and spend over an hour and a half browsing online in pursuit of the perfect presents.
What’s more, 65% are keen to hunt down unique gifts this year rather than buying items anyone could pick up. Four in ten are considering purchasing second-hand presents by browsing online marketplaces, charity shops and vintage stores. For 63% buying second-hand is a great way to save money, and for 35%, they actually enjoy the idea of hunting for a unique gift, which some might find additionally stressful.
The research and quiz were commissioned by Oxfam to mark the launch of its Personal Shopper Gifting service in select stores, designed to encourage a more affordable and stress-free Christmas. The service will be available in Twickenham, Manchester and Oxford stores, on the 6th and 7th December.
Lorna Fallon, retail director at Oxfam, said: “We’re seeing people shift away from purely transactional gift-giving and towards choices that carry a story or a sense of purpose. That might mean choosing something pre-loved, handmade or simply unique to the person receiving it.”
“Shopping has become as much about connection as it is about convenience – and that’s especially true at Christmas,” she added.
Over two thirds admit they find Christmas shopping stressful – with crowded shops (52%) and feeling rushed (30%) the biggest turn-offs. But when asked what would make high-street shopping more enjoyable, 60% wished for shorter queues and 43% wanted easier parking.
A third also noted friendly, helpful staff would make the experience far more pleasant, while 15% would love a personal shopping experience.
Lorna Fallon, for Oxfam, added:“What people really want is time and space to browse, to be inspired, and to find gifts that mean something.
“Creating an experience which feels calm, considered and welcoming makes a huge difference, and that’s what we try to offer in our stores. The festive season should be a reminder that thoughtful giving doesn’t have to come with stress attached.”
