Over third of Christmas shoppers to spend less, says Oxfam, but will still buy gifts

Over a third of Christmas shoppers (35%) are aiming to spend less on gifts this Christmas, with some reducing their budget by 50%, says research commissioned by Oxfam.

A mixture of the cost-of-living crisis (66%), concerns over energy bills (42%), a desire not to get into debt), and trying to save money (39%), are encouraging people to tighten their belts.

But the research brings some comfort, with nearly three quarters (74%) of the 2772 adults surveyed say they believe meaningful gifts, that don’t cost much, are best.

Concerns over the environmental impact of Christmas such as plastic waste and emissions (47% per) plus a desire to along with a desire to shop ethically (20%) are also driving shopping decisions as 23% of those who responded revealed they'd buy second-hand gifts this Christmas, as it's "greener."

It also emerged 27% are going to opt for gifts with a positive social impact, such as charity gift cards or donations to a good cause.

Also, 17% agreed some of the best presents they’ve ever received were ones that didn’t cost that much.

Lorna Fallon, director of retail for Oxfam said: “Giving presents shouldn’t be about how much you spend.

“This year we hope people won’t feel pressurised into spending more they can afford, especially at a time where many are worried about the cost of living crisis.

“Bringing happiness to loved ones on Christmas day doesn't need to be costly or expensive, but it can be thoughtful.”

The research also found when it comes to giving and receiving Christmas gifts 43% per said they believe it’s the thought that counts.

With over one in ten (12%) buying second-hand gifts as books, particularly fiction, are revealed as top of people’s charity shop wish list (23%).

Conducted via OnePoll, the study also found 28% feel pressured to buy gifts at Christmas, with nearly a quarter (24%( feeling relief that they have agreed with family and friends to cut back on giving this year.

Although 34% of those buying for others plan to spend less per person this year compared to last.

With the average number of people on a Christmas gift list reducing by one person, from 10 in 2021 to nine this year.

It also emerged, regardless of household income, everyone is set to feel the squeeze this year as 41% of shoppers with a household income of £20,001 to £25,000 want their money to stretch further.

While a near equal percentage (42%) of those with a household income of £60,001 to £70,000 feel the same way.

Lorna Fallon added: “We’re finding more people are shopping for books this year and Christmas shopping is well underway for unique gifts that aren't going to break the bank.

“Womenswear and menswear sales in our shops are also up, suggesting customers are turning to charity shops to make their pound go as far as possible whilst also supporting good causes.

“Browsing in a charity shop this year for just some of your presents will make your budget stretch further, plus bringing a smile to your family with one-off, more sustainable, thoughtful and ethical gifts. 

"For the friend or relative who has everything, or if you’re short on time or stuck for ideas, choose Oxfam Unwrapped gift cards. Funds raised from these cards support communities to make positive changes, by providing essentials like clean water and sanitation."

Top 10 reasons Brits are cutting spend on gifts this Christmas

The cost-of-living crisis

Not being able to afford as much this year

Just being careful as things get more expensive

Worries about paying gas and electricity bills

Trying to be thrifty with my spending

Not wanting to get into debt

Not feeling the need to spend money to enjoy Christmas

They spent too much money last year

Wanting to put more thought into gifts rather than spending lots on them

Worries about interest rates on credit cards

Top 10 ways Brits will spend less on Christmas gifts this year

Reducing spend per person

Only buying for immediate family

Reducing spending circle (the total number of people to buy for)

Purchasing fewer, more thoughtful presents

Agreeing in advance with family where to spend less

Only buying for the children in the family

Buying second-hand gifts that are high value but lower in price

Buying barely used or excellent condition second-hand books

Giving more home-made presents

Pooling together with friends and family to buy one gift for each family member

To learn more about Oxfam you can visit https://www.oxfam.org.uk where you can also find your nearest Oxfam shop.