Millions engage in Secret Santa at work, assuming it’s a harmless tradition, yet research reveals significant hidden costs.
- Millions of unwanted Secret Santa gifts worth £32 million end up in the trash, indicating wastefulness.
- Rising living costs lead employees to prioritize personal festive spending over workplace traditions.
- Participation in Secret Santa is declining, especially among older employees who spend modestly.
- Younger employees are spending more on Secret Santa, contrasting with the trend to prioritize essential festive expenses.
The annual tradition of Secret Santa in workplaces may seem like a fun and harmless way to celebrate the festive season, yet a recent study by Love2shop highlights an underlying issue. The report uncovers that approximately 2.5 million unwanted gifts, equating to a staggering £32 million, are discarded each year. The scale of waste associated with these gifts is becoming a concern for many.
As living costs continue to rise, many employees view Secret Santa as an unnecessary financial burden. The survey indicates that fewer employees are willing to participate in this tradition, with only 44% opting in this year, a decline from last year’s 50%. Instead, workers are choosing to prioritize essential holiday expenses, such as food and family gifts, over workplace gifting.
The study finds a generational divide in spending habits, with 18–24-year-olds spending between £23 to £35 on gifts, showing a higher enthusiasm for the tradition. In contrast, older colleagues intend to spend significantly less, with those aged 55–64 planning to spend around £10 per gift. This shift highlights changing attitudes across age groups toward workplace festive traditions.
Frank Creighton, Director of Business Development at Love2shop, points out the broader implications of Secret Santa, noting, “Secret Santa is just another tradition that is losing relevance in the modern workplace. Not only is it another expense at this time of year, but our study has shown it has a wider impact too.” He emphasizes the potential environmental harm of millions of unwanted gifts, suggesting that gift cards could offer a more sustainable and appreciated alternative.
The survey also sheds light on employees’ broader preferences concerning festive celebrations. A significant increase in workers preferring bonuses or gift cards over parties highlights a shift in workplace culture toward practicality and personal benefit. In 2024, 87% of workers favored tangible rewards over parties, up from 83% last year. Additionally, the report mentions HMRC’s provision allowing non-cash gifts up to £50, encouraging a practical approach to holiday gifting.
As workplace traditions evolve, employees increasingly favor practical benefits over outdated customs, reflecting their changing priorities and economic realities.
