A study of 1,000 shoppers in Scotland who celebrate the festive season has found that 44 percent are planning to give second-hand gifts this year. Of those who are planning to give pre-loved, 85 per cent say they are looking to save money during the cost-of-living crisis.
Oxfam Scotland, which commissioned the research conducted by OnePoll.com, found that as well as saving money, over a third (35 percent) of people said they plan to purchase pre-loved presents because it’s more environmentally friendly, with nearly a quarter (24 percent) agreeing that there’s a ‘feel good’ factor to second-hand shopping.
With pre-loved gifting becoming increasingly common, a whopping 61 percent of Scottish shoppers say they think it’s more acceptable than ever to give second-hand gifts with over half (53 percent) adding that if they need a Christmas present, their first instinct is to check if they can get it second-hand.
Books, toys and games, jewellery, DVDs and video games are among the top items savvy Scottish shoppers say they would consider buying second-hand.
Tom Richardson, Oxfam’s Operations Manager for Scotland, said: “Across Scotland, savvy shoppers are unwrapping the magic of pre-loved present buying. Conscious consumers clearly know that second-hand does not mean second-best, with charity shops being the perfect places for people to find unique, thoughtful gifts while simultaneously looking after their pennies and the planet.
“Not only are people shopping smarter and more sustainably, but when they shop with Oxfam, they’re changing lives too, with pre-loved purchases spreading joy while supporting communities in need around the world.”
The study also found exactly a third of those polled are planning to make second-hand gifting a tradition with their loved ones each Christmas, with just over half of respondents (56 per cent) saying it’s a good lesson to pass on to future generations.
And over half (58 per cent) of respondents admitted being able to find quality items that are second-hand was a pleasant surprise, with nearly a quarter (23 percent) adding that they enjoyed the ‘hunting’ aspect of searching for the perfect gift.
Furthermore, well over a third (38 per cent) of all respondents say would be grateful to be given a pre-loved present on December 25.
Jill Jardine, manager of Oxfam’s Broughty Ferry store, said: “We’re seeing more and more people who are choosing to give pre-loved presents with a purpose as they look to save money, shop more sustainably and support good causes this Christmas.
“Part of our customers’ enjoyment of buying second-hand is the search itself: you never know what hidden gems you might discover on Oxfam’s shelves. And of course, shopping with us means that your pre-loved presents keep on giving well after the festive season fades.”
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For more information please contact: Rebecca Lozza, Oxfam Media and Communications Adviser, Scotland and Wales: rlozza1@oxfam.org.uk / 07917738450