Third of NI shoppers will buy from charity retailers this Christmas
Northern Ireland customers are adjusting their shopping plans this Christmas, as they intend to purchase more from charity retailers, it has been revealed.
Due to the rising cost of living and the increase in some of the most basic items, people are rethinking how and where they do their Christmas shopping.
A survey by the British Heart Foundation has revealed that a third of Northern Ireland shoppers are making changes to their shopping habits and will buy from charity retailers this festive season.
The survey of 2010 people, conducted by Censuswide, found that 37% said they will change their plans to buy from charity shops over the next few weeks.
Those surveyed said that Christmas cards (34%) and books (30%) were among the top of the list of gifts shoppers intended to buy in NI.
Shoppers say they are motivated to buy their Christmas presents from charity retailers to save money (44%), to help fund a good cause (36%), to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly (29%) and to be able to find unexpected treasures/items (24%).
Fearghal McKinney, Head of British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland said: “We know that many people across Northern Ireland will find this festive period tough with the rising cost of living.
“Christmas shopping at our BHF stores and online is not only good value for money and a great way to pick up gifts for loved ones and friends; it is also an opportunity to give the gift that keeps on living, by helping to fund our life-saving research.
“As well as being good for your pocket, Christmas shopping with the BHF is also good for the planet.
“Our supporters have always been so generous, and we look forward to welcoming them into our stores in the run up to Christmas.”
Allison Swaine-Hughes, BHF Retail Director, said: “We know this festive season is going to be tougher for many families across the UK – and this survey shows that due to the rising cost of living, the need to make our money go further is even greater.
“We hope that we can offer that bit of support with great quality gifts at lower prices whilst also looking after the planet.”
