The joint worst Christmas gift to open is a dead plant, according to research from a retailer, as three-quarters of Brits set to receive an unwanted gift this year.
Argos found the most common present that left people disappointed on 25th December was a dead – yes, dead – plant (28%), the same amount who have also received out-of-date vouchers.
Other unpopular presents included out-of-date chocolates, with nearly a third of the 1,000 respondents believing that was the worst thing they’ve had at Christmas.
Over a fifth (22%) have eagerly unwrapped a present to see a pack of loo roll in the contents. While around the same number have been left disheartened after receiving bizarre – yet potentially useful –gifts including a box of weedkiller (21%) and a mop and bucket (19%).
On a more sombre note, 3% of those asked declared they have never received a gift they have truly loved and on average, Brits will receive at least two unwanted presents underneath the tree this year.
When a gift doesn’t hit the spot with the recipient, over a quarter (26%) will tell the person who gave it to them immediately, while nearly a fifth (19%) have even argued with a loved one over it. A fifth also believe the worst offenders for present-buying are colleagues, with aunties, mums and partners proving among the next on the naughty list.
As many families cutting back this festive season, Argos is keen for households not to waste their cash.
Buying the worst Christmas gifts ‘can tinge’ magical time
Matt Leeser, director at Argos said: “Christmas is the most magical time, but it can be tinged by one misguided gift. [And] we’re passionate about offering shoppers the best range of products for their gifting needs this Christmas.”
Top ten worst Christmas gifts (% of people who voted)
- An expired voucher – 28%
- A dead plant – 28%
- Out-of-date chocolates – 25%
- Toilet roll – 22%
- Something I gave them the year before – 21%
- A wig – 21%
- Weedkiller – 21%
- Something they clearly got free from work – 20%
- Ill-fitting clothes – 20%
- A mop and bucket – 19%
Source: Argos
