UK Consumers Reveal Worst Christmas Gifts of 2024
A survey conducted by Which? in January 2025, involving over 2,000 UK adults, revealed the most unwanted Christmas gifts received in 2024. About 20% of respondents reported receiving gifts they considered unsuitable or unwanted. Some of the worst gifts mentioned included used pyjamas, rotten fruit such as coconut and pineapple, marmite-scented deodorant, and a Tottenham Hotspur book given to a Chelsea supporter.
Regarding recipients' actions with unwanted presents, 33% kept and used the gifts, 15% kept but did not use them, and 34% disposed of the items through various means: 12% gave the gift to friends or family, 11% donated to charity shops, and 8% sold items online. One notable example was a respondent whose daughter gifted a helicopter ride despite the recipient suffering from vertigo and a fear of flying.
Consumer law expert Lisa Webb emphasized the importance of gift receipts, as they aid in returning items. She also noted that some retailer policies permit returns or exchanges if the item is marked as a gift. However, Which? highlighted that nearly half of those who attempted to return unwanted gifts faced difficulties during the return process.
