Shoppers are feeling the pinch this festive season, with over three in four (77%) expecting Christmas costs to be higher this year due to the cost-of-living crisis, with a further 24% cutting back on spending on gifts entirely this Christmas, according to new research.
The new research by the UK’s largest children’s charity, Barnardo’s, found that almost a quarter (22%) of shoppers won’t be buying their partner a present this Christmas, as purse strings are tightened. Over half of shoppers (53%) surveyed are finding it harder to save money for their Christmas shopping this year.
With shoppers navigating the financial crisis in the lead up to the festive period, a further 30% will not be buying typical foods and drinks that they usually would for Christmas, and one quarter (24%) won’t be buying any Christmas decorations.
Additionally, one in five (36%) of those surveyed said that although they will still be giving their loved ones the same number of presents as last year, they will be budgeting and looking for more economical ways to source them.
The survey also looks at what else shoppers will be budgeting for this year. Although many still plan to indulge in their Christmas dinner, a quarter (25%) will be shopping at cheaper stores and buying fewer luxury items, while one in five (21%) will be abandoning their traditional Christmas card mail-out.
With 78% seeing the prices of household shopping items rise significantly, many shoppers are understandably looking for more cost-effective solutions for Christmas purchases this year, with 70% claiming they are considering buying their Christmas gifts from a charity shop this year to save on costs.
Barnardo’s are appealing to consumers to buy festive gifts that give back this Christmas, by shopping in one of their 600+ stores across the UK and online this festive season. With many consumers looking to save money this year, Barnardo’s stores are a great destination for purchasing new and donated gifting items this Christmas. Shoppers can save much needed cash this Christmas simply by shopping in Barnardo’s stores for Christmas gifts, stocking fillers, festive homeware and so much more!
Mark Gregory, Managing Director for Barnardo’s Retail, says: “This Christmas is going to be incredibly tough for so many of the children, young people, and families that Barnardo’s supports, and we know that the cost-of-living crisis is impacting on our customers too.
“This Christmas, there is so much to choose from at Barnardo’s stores and across our online shop that can suit all tastes and budgets. Our stores are here to help shoppers build Christmas cheer, to surprise loved ones with a thoughtful and impactful gift that will make a difference.”
Barnardo’s offers a wide range of affordable and sustainable gifts for the whole family. From toys and games to festive homeware and hampers, to candles and cufflinks; there is something for everyone and every budget this year at Barnardo’s retail.
All funds raised across Barnardo’s stores and online shop this festive season will go where they are needed the most. This is to ensure some of the UK's most vulnerable children are supported and nurtured.
Purchases made in Barnardo’s stores and online shop could help to:
- Provide food parcels or supermarket vouchers so children don’t go hungry this Christmas
- Host services that provide children with a nourishing Christmas dinner and snacks
- Provide energy vouchers to heat families’ homes and let children wake up to a warm home
- Provide warm clothing to children during the winter months
- Throw Christmas parties for children in our services so children can join in the festivities
- Provide Christmas presents or vouchers for families to buy gifts for their children
Head over to shop.barnardos.org.uk and shop our full Christmas gift selection today or head over to barnardos.org.uk/shops to find your nearest Barnardo’s store.
