A Third of European Adults Planning to Gift Used in 2024 Festive Period
Published 11 December 2024 by MPB
36% of adults across Europe are planning to give at least one “used” gift this Christmas
Young adults (aged 25-34) and Millennials (aged 18-24) are driving used gifting, with half planning to gift used this year
60% of European adults would be happy to receive a used gift if it was in good condition
According to new research commissioned by MPB, 36% of European adults plan to give at least one used gift to their loved ones this festive season.
MPB’s fifth annual poll examining attitudes to gifting used has uncovered fascinating insights into the evolving mindset of consumers when it comes to gift-giving during this festive season. The research, which polled 7,000 adults across Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Ireland and Portugal, reveals that young adults (aged 18–24) and millennials (aged 25–34) are driving the used revolution, with 49% and 50% respectively, planning to buy at least one used gift for Christmas this year.
The appeal of used gifts appears to be strong, with 60% of European adults indicating they would be happy to receive a used gift, provided it’s 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 this year, 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.
This is the fifth consecutive year of MPB running the Gifting Used survey.
Photo by Irrin