For the second year running, the humble air fryer has been crowned the UK's most desired Christmas present, according to a new festive survey. The countertop gadget has beaten out high-tech rivals like smart security systems and virtual reality headsets to claim the top spot on the nation's wish list.
The Unstoppable Rise of the Air Fryer
A poll of 2,000 British adults who celebrate Christmas revealed that 11% are hoping to find an air fryer under the tree this year, with Ninja models being the most coveted brand. This enduring popularity is remarkable given that a significant 59% of those surveyed already own one.
The study, conducted by OnePoll, found that the gadget's appeal is rooted in its perceived indispensability. A huge 68% of owners confessed they 'can't imagine life without' their air fryer. Experts attribute this loyalty to the tangible cost-of-living benefits. A spokesperson for Utilita, which tracks appliance running costs, noted that these "little worktop wonders" offer clear savings, costing nearly four times less to operate than a conventional oven on average.
Smart Tech and Generational Divides
Beyond the air fryer, the research highlighted a strong appetite for smart home technology and other innovative gadgets. Items like the Samsung Soundbar, Dyson Airwrap, and Amazon Fire TV Stick HD were also high on the list. Some respondents expressed interest in niche kitchen appliances, including ice cream makers, dessert makers, and bread makers.
The trends, however, vary dramatically between age groups. Generation Z (those born after 1997) are most likely to want an Apple AirTag (13%), with 11% hoping for an air purifier or clothes steamer. Millennials showed a stronger preference than other generations for a Panasonic bread maker and the Meta Quest 3 VR headset.
The survey also uncovered that younger consumers are far more influenced by trends. Purchasing decisions are swayed by trends for 57% of Gen Z and 53% of Millennials, compared to just 31% of the wider population. This demographic is also leading the charge on smart tech adoption, with keen interest in smart watches (21%), smart appliances (17%), and smart lighting (14%).
Energy Efficiency: A Priority for the Young
An interesting finding from the data is the heightened focus on energy efficiency among younger buyers. The figures show that 25% of younger people factor energy efficiency into tech purchases, compared to only 17% of Baby Boomers and Generation X.
"The younger generations tend to have more of an eye on what's culturally relevant, including in the world of technology," said Utilita's spokesperson. "So, to predict the next biggest trends, we should be keeping an eye on their buying habits. Will smart technology continue to be on the rise, will it be revolutionary beauty products, or something completely new we haven't even imagined yet?"
The study, commissioned by Utilita, provides a clear snapshot of the UK's festive desires, blending practical cost-saving with cutting-edge technology and revealing a distinct generational split in consumer priorities.
