New research has pinpointed the Christmas presents that most frequently miss the mark, leaving recipients feeling underwhelmed. A survey conducted by the consumer champion Which? has revealed that items like Marmite-scented deodorant and second-hand pyjamas are among the nation's most disappointing festive offerings.
The Festive Let-Downs: From Yeasty Sprays to Vertigo-Inducing Rides
In January, the consumer group Which? polled more than 2,000 members of the public about the gifts they received last Christmas. The findings were stark: 21% of those surveyed confirmed they had been given an unwanted or unsuitable present.
The dubious honour of the most disappointing gift went to a limited edition deodorant that smelled of Marmite. This unusual product, released by Unilever—which manufactures both the polarising spread and Lynx body spray—was a clear failure for many. Other notable disappointments included gifts with scents of rotten coconut and pineapple, and a Tottenham Hotspur book given to a dedicated Chelsea fan.
The research uncovered a range of other festive misfires. In one particularly ill-judged case, a person who suffers from vertigo and has a fear of flying was gifted a helicopter ride by their own daughter.
What Happens to Unwanted Gifts After the Festive Cheer Fades?
Once the wrapping paper is cleared away, Britons are faced with the dilemma of what to do with an unwanted gift. Which? found that people's responses varied significantly.
A third of respondents (33%) said they would keep the item and use it regardless. However, 15% admitted they would keep it but never actually use it. A significant 34% of people confessed to getting rid of the unwanted present entirely, choosing not to go through the process of returning or exchanging it.
For those passing gifts on, the most popular options were:
- Giving it to a friend or family member (12%)
- Donating it to a charity shop (10%)
- Selling it on an online marketplace (8%)
Only a tiny minority took more drastic action, with just 2% throwing the gift away and a mere 1% having the courage to give it back to the person who bought it.
Navigating Returns: Essential Advice for Disappointed Recipients
Lisa Webb, a consumer law expert at Which?, commented on the findings, stating, "Our research shows that a fifth of us have been left wondering what to do with an unwanted gift." She emphasised the importance of gift receipts, which allow the recipient the option to return the item if necessary.
Fortunately, many retailers extend their returns policies over the festive period, offering a lifeline to those who receive a disappointing present. This often allows for a refund, exchange, or store credit.
Webb added a crucial note for online purchases: "Sometimes, for online orders, only the buyer can request a refund or exchange. But if the item was marked as a gift when ordered, the retailer’s returns policy may enable a recipient to return or exchange it."
Which? advises consumers that proof of purchase is usually required for any return. It's also important to note that some retailers have policies against refunding to a credit or debit card unless the original cardholder is present. In such cases, they may instead offer a gift card, voucher, or credit note.
