Sustainability is a top priority for consumers when it comes to celebrating birthdays, according to a new survey by leading gift and party supplies brand Talking Tables, among the exhibitors at Harrogate Home & Gift this week. The poll found three-quarters (75%) of respondents actively consider sustainability in their gifting and party choices, as consumers become more eco-conscious in their purchasing habits.
The survey, conducted among 204 participants across the UK, revealed a significant number of people are making conscious efforts to incorporate sustainable practices into their celebrations. This holds true whether respondents were hosting birthday parties themselves, or celebrating the birthdays of others.
> Gifts and Party Favours: A third of those surveyed (33%) prefer sustainable gifts, such as ethically sourced or plastic-free items, and 27% select eco-friendly party favours and gift bags.
> Nation of Card Lovers: The survey revealed that the most popular way to wish someone a happy birthday was to send a card with nearly half (42%) of respondents choosing this above all others, compared to around a third, (35%), who used WhatsApp or text messages, and only 5% who opted for a phone call. It highlighted the continued importance of personal touches in celebrations.
> Decorations: The most popular way respondents chose to take steps to be more eco-friendly was in the party decorations they bought. More than half, (54%), of respondents said they choose paper or reusable decorations, such as fabric bunting, to reduce waste.
> Tableware: Over half (51%) of participants reported buying recyclable or reusable cups, plates, napkins, and cutlery.
> Kids’ Birthdays: Nearly all parents, (98%), decorate their homes for their children’s birthdays, with balloons (92%), birthday banners (85%), and bunting (57%).
> Birthday Décor: More than two-thirds, (68%), of respondents admitted they had a stash of birthday supplies such as wrapping paper, candles and decorations, that they brought out for each birthday, with only 18% saying they purchase new each time. Two-thirds (66%) of those surveyed said they use birthday candles again and again, rather than throwing them away each time. This leans further into the sustainability trend and helps cut down waste.
> Double or Quits: The majority of respondents (87%) prefer to celebrate with immediate family or close friends – with only 9% saying they celebrated with a larger gathering of up to 20 people or more.
Respondents also said that they enjoyed having more than one celebration – with almost half, (46%), confirming that they often have more than one birthday get-together.
Founded by Clare Harris in 1999, Talking Tables is an award-winning brandwhich helps the nation celebrate its birthdays – and this year is celebrating its own big birthday – 25 years in business.
Visit www.talkingtables.co.uk
Top: Talking Tables has revealed the findings of a recent birthday and gift survey.
