A Third of European Adults Planned to Gift Used in 2024 Festive Period
Published 11 December 2024 by MPB
36% of adults across Europe said they planned to give at least one 'used' gift for Christmas 2024
Young adults (aged 25-34) and Millennials (aged 18-24) were driving used gifting, with half stating they planned to gift used in 2024
60% of European adults reported that they would be happy to receive a used gift if it was in good condition
According to research commissioned by MPB, 36% of European adults said they planned to give at least one used gift to their loved ones for the 2024 festive season.
MPB’s fifth annual poll, examining attitudes towards gift-giving, uncovered fascinating insights into the evolving mindset of consumers during the 2024 festive season. The research, which polled 7,000 adults across Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Ireland and Portugal, revealed that young adults (aged 18–24) and millennials (aged 25–34) were driving the used revolution, with 49% and 50% respectively, reporting that they planned to buy at least one used gift for Christmas in 2024.
The appeal of used gifts appeared to be strong, with 60% of European adults indicating they would be happy to receive a used gift, provided it was in good condition. Indeed, 44% of respondents said they would prefer a used gift over a new one, where appropriate.
Matt Barker, Founder and CEO of MPB, said: “More people are planning to gift used, fueled by growing environmental awareness and ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Younger, more planet-conscious consumers are leading this shift.
By participating in the circular economy, shoppers can save money, extend product lifespans, and reduce their environmental impact. While many are already embracing this approach, a significant number of UK adults remain unaware of its benefits. We encourage them to consider gifting used items as a more thoughtful, sustainable choice.
High-quality used products, including photo and video gear, are available through specialist retailers like MPB, which offer quality-checked products and warranties to ensure peace of mind. These items retain their quality for years, often costing a third less than new models, allowing shoppers to save money while also contributing to a healthier planet by avoiding carbon emissions from the production of new."
Learn more about MPB’s sustainability commitments.
Methodology
Pure Spectrum produced an online survey completed by 9,000 adults across 11 markets (UK, US, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Ireland and Portugal). Fieldwork took place in November 2024.
Photo by Irrin