The average Irish shopper spent around €700 on Christmas presents this year for loved ones and friends - marking an increase of 33% in spending from 2020.
Time and time again, many gifts will end up in the unwanted pile but with the cost of living crisis meaning every penny counts, it’s important to make sure nothing goes to waste.
Eoin Clarke, commercial director of Switcher.ie, says: “With so many of us scrambling to cut corners this year, it’s important to avoid waste at all costs.
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“Even if something is gifted, you should always try for a refund or exchange - some shops might accommodate you as a gesture of goodwill.
“If you’re comfortable asking the gift giver, find out if the gift was bought online, as they may have extra refund rights.
“Selling online or regifting are other ways to save money and reduce waste - while donating to charities and schools helps support local communities.”
Here is Switcher.ie’s advice when it comes to dealing with unwanted gifts:
Try for an in store refund
Always try for a refund or exchange if you have a gift receipt. Although they’re not legally required to give you one, some shops will accept your return and provide a refund, exchange or credit note as a gesture of goodwill.
Check for faults
Although you don’t have the same legal rights as the person who bought the gift, if it’s not fit for purpose or faulty and if you have the receipt, you should be able to get an exchange or refund.
Ask if it was bought online
Online shoppers are entitled to a 14-day cooling off period because they can't view before paying. If you're comfortable asking, check if your gift was bought online.
Consider selling
If you can’t refund or exchange your gift, consider selling it online on a site like Done deal, Adverts, Amazon or Depop for clothing.
Look at regifting
Consider keeping your unwanted gifts for upcoming birthdays or special occasions - you never know, it might save you forking out for something new.
Decide to donate
Consider donating the gifts to a local charity, school, or community group. Before donating, see if they will accept your gift first.
Do a swap
Some apps like Irish app Nuw, allows you to swap or lend your like-new clothes. You could also organise or attend a swap-shop event, or just organise one with your own friends and family.
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