Family Gifting is the Trend this Holiday

There might be fewer packages under the tree this year as more Canadians look to purchase one gift the whole family will enjoy. A Best Buy Canada survey conducted by Leger Marketing reveals that as many as one in five Canadians are considering purchasing one large gift the whole family can benefit from together. And when it comes to gifts for all ages, consumer electronics is at the top of the list. Nearly half of those looking for family gifts indicate that gaming systems, HD TVs, home entertainment components or computers might be found in their house come Christmas morning.

“Our survey found that nearly half of Canadians will spend the same amount as last year but are taking the less is more approach to shopping in 2009. They are looking for gifts that will bring the family together beyond the holiday season,” said MaryAnn McKenzie, Marketing Manager Best Buy Canada. “This year has been about getting value for your money and Canadians are looking to treat themselves and their families this time of year.”

Whether or not this trend is seen in your household this year depends a lot on where you live. Ninety five per cent of people in Manitoba and Saskatchewan will be buying for their immediate family versus 25 per cent of Quebecers. Continuing east, spouses and partners in Atlantic Canada are the most likely to see a gift from their loved one this year with more than two thirds (67 per cent) on the hunt for the perfect expression of their affection.

When it comes to what to buy, BC families are the most likely to purchase an HD TV or gaming system (22 per cent each) with Ontario and Alberta close behind. Twenty three and 22 per cent of Ontarians are looking for an HD TV or gaming system, respectively, and 23 and 21 per cent of Albertans have the same idea.

It’s not so surprising that when it comes to expressing their affection, men are more likely to do so with an HD TV, with 23 per cent considering a big screen for the whole family versus 16 per cent of women. But while fewer women than men might consider an HD TV a necessity, gaming systems, which were once dominated by the guys, have found a wider audience in recent years. With 19 per cent of men and 20 per cent of women looking for a gaming system such as Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360, or PlayStation 3, the likelihood of purchasing a gaming system is just about equal, regardless of gender.

“The evolution of gaming systems and the types of social games available has broadened significantly to appeal to both men and women, and all-ages,” continued McKenzie. “What was once a fairly solitary activity is now a great way for the whole family to interact and spend time together on a regular basis.”

The stockings hung by the chimney with care will not go unnoticed as those looking for family gifts are likely to purchase personalized stocking stuffers to match. One third (33 per cent) will be looking for a video game each member of the family will enjoy, while 22 per cent will be seeking out hot new releases on Blu Ray and DVD and nearly one in five (19 per cent) will purchase extra controllers.

For family gift ideas and store locations, visit bestbuy.ca.

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