With the holiday season on the horizon, a recent survey sheds light on intriguing shopping habits in the Czech Republic. Approximately 25 percent of Czech households have a penchant for purchasing gifts for their loved ones just before Christmas, whether in sales or irrespective of the price.

The majority, comprising around 44 percent of respondents, adopt a strategic approach, acquiring Christmas presents one to three months in advance while waiting for optimal price offers. Another 15 percent of families also engage in early gift shopping but prioritize factors beyond price considerations.

Notably, the survey unveils a gender disparity in shopping behaviors. Women emerge as the more budget-conscious early shoppers, with 51 percent completing their purchases up to three months in advance, driven by the quest for low prices. In contrast, only 37 percent of men exhibit a similar level of proactivity and price consciousness when it comes to gift shopping.

Conversely, men are more inclined to purchase gifts regardless of the price, whether one to three months before the holidays or engaging in last-minute shopping. Similar proportions of men and women engage in last-minute shopping, specifically in sales, a trend prominently observed among individuals aged 35 to 44.

The survey also highlights that approximately nine percent of Czechs opt not to exchange Christmas gifts within the family, emphasizing a preference for shared experiences. Additionally, nearly every twentieth respondent cites financial constraints as a reason for refraining from Christmas shopping. Notably, these tendencies are more prevalent among men and individuals of higher age. About two percent of Czechs demonstrate a personal touch by gifting handmade items to their loved ones.

Jaroslava Palendalová, CEO of KRUK, notes, “According to our survey, almost every twentieth respondent states they do not have the finances for Christmas shopping. In both cases, it is mostly men rather than women, and mostly of higher age.” The insights from the survey provide a nuanced understanding of Czech consumer behavior during the festive season.

Article by Prague Forum