As the festive season approaches, the team at Pedddle, the online directory of artisan markets and their stallholders across the UK, have unveiled the secrets of what consumers are really seeking for Christmas 2024. With a focus on sustainability, personalised and bespoke gifts that will last for generations are becoming increasingly popular, as customers source ethical products from smaller businesses. The festive season promises a celebration of creativity, sustainability and community support, and Pedddle is here to ensure cohesion in that.
Here are the top 5 trends:
1. Gift eco-friendly, sustainable gifts
Sustainability continues to drive consumer choices, and Christmas 2024 will see a surge in eco-conscious shopping. Small businesses are leading the charge with products that are not only beautifully crafted, but also ethically made. From reusable gift wraps and plastic-free toys to organic, hand-poured candles and upcycled items, there’s a growing demand for gifts that are kind to the planet.
“People are more mindful than ever about the environmental impact of their Christmas shopping,” reveals Pedddle Account Manager, Caitlin. “We’ve seen a rise in people buying eco-friendly gift wrap as much as eco products themselves, with a huge shift towards handcrafted, zero-waste items bought from stallholders at markets.”
2. Personalised and handcrafted gifts are gaining popularity
One-of-a-kind gifts are more cherished than ever, and this year, consumers are turning to personalised and handmade items to make their presents stand out. Small businesses on Pedddle are offering a wide range of customisable products, from monogrammed leather goods to bespoke jewellery and home décor that reflects the buyer’s personal touch.
Pedddle Founder Nicki states, “These unique pieces not only support artisans, stallholders and small business owners, but they add an extra layer of meaning to gift-giving. Especially when budgets are tight, you want to gift something truly memorable and cherished to your loved ones. Shoppers are increasingly looking for ways to create memorable moments, and that translates to them finding the most amazing, unique pieces at markets”.
3. We all love an artisan hamper!
When you think of a hamper, you might conjure an image of a wicker hamper with cute leather handles, full of delicious food – jams, chutneys, perhaps a bottle of fizz, usually from an elite store.
“Hampers have evolved way beyond what you might imagine – of course you can get delicious food hampers ready-made, but you could even put something together yourself using your local Farmers Markets”, suggests Market Liaison Manager Rebecca. “You can find so much locally-made produce, it really adds a personal touch as well as giving you that great feeling that you’re supporting local businesses too. I’m from Staffordshire, where we have so many great breweries, I love gifting local ales for a Christmas treat”.
Local food hampers, filled with artisanal cheeses, craft beverages, homemade jams and other gourmet treats, are a top trending choice for 2024. Consumers are embracing the opportunity to discover small-scale producers and support local farms near where they live, whilst giving thoughtful, high-quality gifts. Rebecca continues, “Food hampers are a great way to indulge in a bit of luxury whilst supporting local producers, and we all love a little artisan food and drink treat now and then!”
4. DIY gifting: The New Interactive Trend
For those who love a hands-on approach, DIY gift kits are set to be a hit this Christmas. Small businesses are offering everything, from build-your-own candle sets to making jewellery and keyrings, letting recipients create their own masterpieces.
Account Manager Caitlin explains, “it’s actually a very sustainable way of gifting, as a lot of small business owners use offcuts and left-overs from their own making process to create these craft kits. It means a gift recipient can create a really unique piece with their own fair hands, and learn a new skill, making a DIY kit gift extra special and sustainable too”.
5. Digital and Hybrid Markets: The Best of Both Worlds
With the growth of e-commerce, small businesses are blending digital convenience with the charm of in-person markets. The pandemic gave rise to Pedddle’s sister site, the online market platform Tresstle, but the very nature of Pedddle blends the online and offline worlds articulately.
Pedddle is a unique platform that connects consumers with small businesses, stallholders and markets across the UK, promoting independent businesses and supporting local communities.
Pedddle Founder Nicki explains, “Pedddle combines the ease of the digital age with the charm of traditional artisan markets, as you can look for fantastic stallholders and local events on our website, and then visit them in person. Lots of people love a Christmas Market, and we have all kinds listed on Pedddle, which you can then take your loved ones to explore for some festive fun!”.
This Christmas, Pedddle is making it easier than ever to shop small and shop local. With these trends guiding consumer preferences, shoppers can find unique, meaningful, and eco-friendly gifts while supporting small businesses across the UK. A very Merry Christmas for all!
