It’s beginning to look a lot like (a Very different) Christmas…

Amidst the uncertainty of this year, what impact will the pandemic have on our attitudes and shopping habits this Christmas?

As ever, we’ve been speaking to Very.co.uk customers ahead of a festive period like no other to find out what really matters to them. Here’s a run-down from our research manager, Lauren Robinson, on how our customers are feeling and how they’ll be shopping this Christmas.

 It’ll be an online Christmas

More than half (58%) of the customers we asked plan to do most of their Christmas shopping online. But while around half (53%) will spend the same amount this year, a third (31%) plan to tighten their belts following a year of disruption.

 Shopping has started earlier

Early preparation is a top priority this Christmas, with many re-thinking the types of gifts they’ll buy given they’ll be sent by post rather than dropped off in person this year. We’re expecting more demand for services like gift wrapping and direct delivery this year, especially for those where tight local restrictions remain in place in the run up to the big day.

We’ll be doing our best to keep the magic alive

60% of the customers we spoke to are struggling with the inability to make firm plans and almost a third (28%) are already preparing for a different Christmas, with many of us anticipating some restrictions over the holidays. For many, though, this means making the best of the festive period regardless and an even bigger effort to keep the magic alive.

Christmas is going virtual

Over half (52%) of customers are actively thinking about Christmas and many say less quality time with family and friends will be the most difficult thing to adapt to this Christmas. But for some, the big day remains a chance to hunker down with their closest family, and spend the day under one roof instead of several. Many told us they also intend to make the most of virtual celebrations with loved ones. Christmas is Christmas after all, and there is an opportunity to create new types of memories this year.