Walgreens issues 'State of Small Gifting Report'
DEERFIELD, Ill. — According to the “State of Small Gifting Report,” a new holiday survey released Tuesday from Walgreens, nearly all service providers (94%) — including teachers, daycare staff and nannies, healthcare providers, home and repair professionals, personal service providers and pet sitters — feel more appreciated when they are remembered during the holidays. During a season when those surveyed agree that “it’s the thought that counts,” many of the people who provide care and services don’t always come to mind; less than half of the people they serve give them a holiday gift.
As the season’s small gifting headquarters, the nation’s largest drug store chain asked 799 service providers — some of the most common recipients of small gifts during the holidays — in October about what gift giving means to them, common gifts they receive and what they actually most want.
“Survey results confirmed our long-held hunch: Being acknowledged, even in a small way, during the holiday season really means a lot to people,” said Moe Alkemade, head of seasonal merchandising for Walgreens. “Even amid the holiday hustle and bustle, there are still thoughtful, convenient ways to celebrate those in our lives who help us manage each day. Walgreens prides itself on being a partner for customers’ daily needs, and we extend that through the holidays with gift options to satisfy individual tastes — from your child’s teacher to Fido’s walker. We’re a one-stop destination for your small gifting holiday needs.”
Many Americans aren’t making the grade when it comes to remembering teachers and tutors. They’re the most commonly overlooked during the holiday season, with almost 40% of those surveyed receiving gifts from less than a quarter of their students. In contrast, babysitters and nannies are the most likely group of ‘everyday helpers’ to receive a gift — more than 60% say those they work for give them a gift during the holidays.
No matter who ends up on your holiday list though, there are common gifts that make the wish lists of all surveyed, from those who look after kids and lawns, to providing hair styling and health care. Gift cards top most lists (66%), but the report also revealed that food gifts — such as Whitman’s Chocolate Sampler, Ghirardelli Chocolate Sleigh Gift Set or Ferrero Rocher Chocolate Gift Box — are universally liked by respondents, outranking most other gift ideas. Such personal care sets as Burt’s Bees Essentials Kit, Aveeno Moisturizing Gift Set or Boots No7 Men Hydrating Shave Kit, and candles, like a Decorative Votive Candle Set, also are among favorite small gifts.
The good news for gift givers is that giving doesn’t have to break the bank. According to the “State of Small Gifting Report,” only a small number of token gifts have a value of more than $20; the majority cost about $10 or less.