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Gifting is changing. After years of quick, algorithm-driven purchases, shoppers now want presents that feel personal, thoughtful, and meaningful. They're looking for gifts that connect emotionally and reflect their values.
This guide explores the 10 key trends shaping gifting in 2026, with practical insights for retailers.
1. Personalised & Meaningful Gifting
Customisation goes beyond monograms now. Shoppers want gifts that tell a story, birth flowers, zodiac signs, hand-drawn portraits, custom scents, or memory-based products that feel individually crafted.
Why it matters: People want gifts that celebrate identity and connection, especially in uncertain times.
For retailers: Offer quick-turnaround customisation or partner with makers who provide personalised touches. Create in-store displays that explain the story behind each piece.
2. Sustainability Reimagined
Eco-friendly gifting is now mainstream. Shoppers want practical, low-waste options like reusable homeware, recycled materials, refillable products, and planet-friendly packaging. Plant gifts and grow-kits remain popular.
Why it matters: Younger shoppers expect transparency about materials, origins, and environmental impact.
For retailers: Build a dedicated sustainability section with clear labelling. Highlight certifications and sourcing stories. Position reusable items as long-term value.
3. Wellness, Calm & Self-Care
Wellness gifts are lifestyle essentials now. Popular choices include aromatherapy sets, weighted blankets, sleep kits, tea rituals, journals, at-home spa experiences, and mindful hobby kits.
Why it matters: Modern life feels overwhelming. People want gifts that create moments of calm.
For retailers: Create "care corners" with curated bundles at different price points, sleep sets, morning rituals, mindful moments.
4. Tech-Enabled Everyday Helpers
Smart devices are trending, but not just flashy gadgets. Think practical helpers: wireless earbuds, smart mugs, home assistants, compact projectors, and AI organisational tools that blend into daily routines.
Why it matters: Hybrid work and digital homes mean people want solutions, not gimmicks.
For retailers: Create an "Everyday Tech" zone with clear benefit descriptions. Offer demos and comparison charts to help shoppers decide.
5. Experience-Led & Subscription Gifts
Memories beat material goods. Experience gifts like cookery classes, workshops, hotel stays, and adventure days are rising. Subscription boxes offer ongoing joy; books, treats, craft kits, wellness items, or monthly flowers.
Why it matters: Millennials and Gen Z prefer building experiences over accumulating objects.
For retailers: Partner with local businesses for exclusive vouchers. Display sample subscription boxes so customers understand the value.
6. Bold, Joyful Aesthetics
After years of minimalism, colour is back. Vibrant packaging, graphic patterns, playful stationery, bright ceramics, and novelty pieces that spark delight are everywhere.
Why it matters: Shoppers want uplifting, shareable moments, especially for social media.
For retailers: Build colourful displays in high-traffic areas. Stock cheerful add-ons like patterned notebooks or bright mugs for those impulse purchases.
7. Home Comforts & Cosy Luxuries
Elevated homeware dominates: plush throws, soft lighting, artisan candles, sculptural ceramics, tactile cushions, and sensory décor. People want homes that feel comforting and express their style.
Why it matters: More time at home means people invest in making it functional and restorative.
For retailers: Create lifestyle vignettes, reading corners, tea stations, relaxation setups. Use sensory merchandising with scent and texture.
8. Digital Gifting & Choice-Based Rewards
Digital gifts are mainstream;e-gift cards, online experiences, digital art, app subscriptions. Many prefer letting recipients choose their perfect present.
Why it matters: Busy schedules and last-minute gifting habits drive demand for convenience.
For retailers: Make digital gift cards prominent online and in-store. Offer branded presentation options to elevate the experience.
9. Gifting for Pets, Hobbies & Micro-Interests
Niche gifting is booming. Pet accessories, craft kits, gaming gear, and fandom merchandise align with specific passions and hobbies.
Why it matters: People want gifts that truly reflect the recipient's interests and lifestyle.
For retailers: Create themed sections: "For the Gamer," "For the Plant Lover," "For the Crafter," "For the Pet Parent." Small zones help shoppers navigate easily.
10. Corporate Gifting with Purpose
Business gifting is more strategic now. Companies want high-quality, value-aligned gifts; sustainability, wellbeing, craftsmanship. Popular choices include curated hampers, personalised items, and digital choice cards.
Why it matters: Remote teams and employee engagement drive meaningful corporate gestures.
For retailers: Develop corporate bundles at different price tiers. Offer personalisation and sustainable options. Make bulk ordering simple.
The Bottom Line
Gifting in 2026 combines emotion, practicality, and personal expression. Shoppers want meaningful, sustainable gifts that reflect identity, whether that's a custom birth-flower necklace, a calming ritual set, or a smart home helper.
The opportunity: Clear storytelling, curated selections, and joyful presentation. Align your ranges with these shifts to meet customers where their values and wish lists truly are.
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