Even before the virus hit many “bricks and mortar” shops had been waging a losing battle and, as customers remain wary of crowds, predictions point to another bumper Christmas for ecommerce. Safety and convenience though are not the only reasons. A growing number of personalised Christmas gifts lend themselves so perfectly to buying in this way, they’re unlikely to ever find themselves on the traditional High Street. We took a virtual stroll to pick out ten of the best and most affordable ones:
1. Personalised Christmas Story Book for Children
Every child's name creates an unique rhyming Christmas story. £19.95
2. The Classic Rugby Ball
For budding sports stars, whether your name is Gilbert, Gary or Gertrude £34.99
3. The Comic Book Annual
The first issue of the Beano hit newsstands in 1938 and in its 82 years has gathered plenty of fans. £32
4. Who’s the Daddy this Christmas?
A book about all those special “Daddy” Christmas memories. £23.00
5. The Elf T-shirt
Available from 0 to 6 years, photo and text personalisation makes it both a gift and a keepsake! £14.99
6. The Kids Journal
Kids really do say the funniest things and this childhood journal makes sure you never forget them. £26
7. The Social PhotoBook
A cool way to transform Facebook and Instagram photos into a beautiful hardback photobook. From £14.99
8. The Classic Storybook
Raymond Briggs' magical “The Snowman” personalised to include your child in the heart of the story. £19.99
9. One for Granny! - Adorable book explaining simple manners
Have fun alongside Milo, Mary and their magical Granny. £6.99
10. The Pet Gift
Its Christmas treat the dog to a beer! From £3.99.
Town centres across the land enjoyed a short-lived upswing during August as shoppers made the most of better weather and the easing of restrictions. But footfall is still low, particularly in bigger cities – 31% of pre-lockdown levels in central London, 49% in Manchester and 52% in Birmingham1. Not just consumers but office staff are staying away as many heed the call to “work from home if you can”.
So, while everything about Christmas is likely to be a little different this year, we’re hoping that browsing and buying from your armchair may help remove some of the stress.