As the holiday season unfolds, nearly half of Czechs are diving into Christmas shopping, with a strong inclination toward gifting electronics, according to a recent survey by CZC. The anticipated presents span a wide spectrum, ranging from sought-after mobile phones and smartwatches to surprising entries like electric toothbrushes and robotic vacuum cleaners.

However, festive shoppers may find their budgets stretched further this year. Veronika Geltner, a spokesperson for the comparison site Zboží.cz, notes a subtle uptick in prices across most categories. Mobile phones, particularly in high demand, have seen an average price increase of one percent, while smartwatches experienced a more substantial 17 percent surge.

Despite these price hikes, the allure of electronics remains strong. The survey uncovers that a whopping 67 percent of respondents have earmarked electronics as their go-to Christmas gifts. Only a minimal seven percent outright reject the idea of choosing electronics as presents, signaling a sustained demand for tech-centric holiday surprises.

Interestingly, the survey unveils a shift in consumer preferences regarding electronic gifts. While the market for popular smartphones appears to have hit saturation, experiencing a two percent decline in sales over the past year, unconventional items like hair dryers and computer accessories (keyboards and monitors) have witnessed a remarkable 25 percent uptick in sales.

In the face of economic uncertainty, Czech consumers showcase their adaptability and financial prudence. Petra Psotková, a spokesperson for a company, points to the growing trend of increased tool sales, suggesting a preference for DIY solutions over hiring professionals for simpler tasks.

As traditional retail experiences a decline, the survey underscores the resurgence of e-shops, particularly as the holiday season approaches. More than half of the respondents are turning to online platforms for their festive purchases, opting for the convenience of home delivery or nearby pickup locations. In navigating these evolving consumer trends, the tech-driven holiday spirit seems poised to shape this year’s gift-giving landscape.

Article by Prague Forum