In a year of enduring economic crisis, and that is predicted to be the warmest ever recorded, the appeal of a pre-loved Christmas gift has never felt more urgent. Electronics like phones, game consoles and gaming gadgets are popular gifts, yet they have a significant impact on the environment.
Blocket’s eco-conscious Christmas initiative
In response, Blocket is fostering a shift towards environmental consciousness, promoting the use of preloved electronics as Christmas presents. Despite an anticipated decrease in overall holiday spending, Sweden’s average expenditure of 8,300 kronor per person highlights the growing need for more sustainable gifting options.
Swedes annually recycle an impressive 12 kilograms of electronic waste per person, which doesn’t even include the e-waste that ends up in regular trash. This reality underlines the importance of this year’s focus on preloved electronics as Christmas gifts. By choosing refurbished or gently used electronics, consumers can actively contribute to reducing e-waste and fostering a more sustainable holiday season.
The ‘Newly Used’ Category
To ensure quality and trust in pre-owned electronics, Blocket has introduced a ‘Newly Used’ category. This section features professionally tested items, complete with performance guarantees and reliability assurances. This initiative aims to build trust and alleviate the apprehensions of those new to the concept of secondhand shopping.
Similarly, Schibsted’s marketplaces in Norway (Finn) and Finland (Tori) are revealing their ‘Gifts of the Year,’ reflecting user preferences. In Finland, popular gifts include the PlayStation 5, Lego sets and Kalevala jewellery, highlighting diverse interests. Meanwhile, in Norway, 17% of Finn users prefer ski equipment, indicative of the country’s passion for winter sports. In Denmark, popular Christmas searches feature Gaming PCs, Macbook Pros, dollhouses and Barbie dolls, indicating a mix of tech and traditional toy preferences.
Embracing secondhand gifts
Recent surveys show a strong positive attitude among Swedes towards secondhand gifts. Approximately 70% of respondents are open to receiving such items, as noted by Ebba Rosencrantz, Blocket’s press officer. She highlights the dual benefits of choosing secondhand: cost savings and environmental protection, both crucial in today’s economic climate.
This trend is echoed in Norway, where one in five people are receptive to receiving a second-hand Christmas gift, marking a 5% increase from last year.
Discover the diverse range of secondhand options on Blocket, Finn, or Tori. Opting for a preloved electronic device or a unique, gently used item not only offers a sustainable alternative but also adds a personal touch to your holiday gifting.
Here’s to a happy and thoughtful holiday shopping experience!
