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Reselling Christmas gifts: What is behind the growing French trend?

A recent report from the e-commerce platform eBay reveals a notable shift in the post-holiday behavior of the French population.

Reselling Christmas gifts: What is behind the growing French trend?

Approximately one in four individuals in France has contemplated selling their unwanted gifts this year, marking a substantial increase, as indicated by eBay's annual barometer on gift resale trends.

The aftermath of Christmas Day saw a surge in gift resale advertisements on eBay, with three to four gifts changing hands every minute since Monday morning. This influx has resulted in a staggering 300,000 new listings of second-hand items, a figure projected to reach one million by December 28. The trend is expected to further intensify, with an anticipated three million new listings by January 3, 2024.

What makes this year particularly noteworthy is the economic backdrop of the cost-of-living crisis, influencing the consumption habits of the French population. The eBay/Kantar barometer for 2023 highlights a pivotal year, showcasing firsthand evidence of how financial considerations are impacting individuals' choices.

The report underscores that a record number of individuals, nearly 23% of the population, are expected to engage in gift resale activities this year. This represents a significant surge, with 2.5 million more people considering resale compared to the previous year. Notably, eBay emphasizes the growing trend of individuals selling gifts not for personal pleasure but out of financial necessity. The data reveals a shift in motivation, with more French citizens opting to resell gifts to alleviate the financial strain of Christmas expenses, such as bills or to contribute to savings.

Sarah Tayeb, General Director of eBay in France, emphasizes the unprecedented nature of this increase in gift resale, highlighting that, for the first time, a greater number of French individuals are choosing financial practicality over personal enjoyment when it comes to dealing with their holiday gifts. This shift underscores the evolving economic landscape and the prioritization of financial stability in the face of economic challenges.

The growing trend of reselling Christmas gifts in France reflects a nuanced shift in consumer behavior influenced by economic realities. The surge in gift resale, as indicated by reports from e-commerce platforms like eBay, suggests that the French population is increasingly navigating the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis.

This trend goes beyond a mere post-holiday activity and provides insight into the changing consumption habits of the French people. The motivation behind reselling has evolved, with financial necessity now outweighing the traditional pleasure of keeping or exchanging gifts. The data underscores a pragmatic approach, where individuals are driven to resell gifts to cope with Christmas-related expenses, including bills and the imperative need for savings. The underlying factors contributing to this trend underscore the economic challenges faced by individuals, shaping their decisions in the aftermath of the holiday season. As the trend continues to grow, it serves as a barometer of economic strain and highlights the adaptability of consumers in response to evolving financial landscapes. Understanding this shift is crucial for both retailers and policymakers seeking to address the broader implications of the cost-of-living crisis on consumer behavior.