NEW YORK, NY — A recent study by DodoBurd.com has uncovered a surprising aspect of the festive economy: the thriving market of regifting and selling unwanted presents, with New Jersey’s regifting economy valued at a remarkable $435 million.
The study revealed that 38% of New Jerseyans admit to regifting or selling unwanted gifts. Nationally, this trend contributes to a staggering $17 billion festive exchange market, with the average value of regifted or sold items being $123.
California leads the nation with a $2 billion regifting market, while Delaware’s market is the smallest at $17 million. Interestingly, Rhode Island emerged as the state with the highest percentage of regifters at 83%.
The study delved deeper into the ethics and motivations behind regifting. While 38% of respondents believe it is morally wrong to regift or sell presents, nearly half of those who have done so reported feeling regret afterwards. Despite this, nearly half of the survey participants view gift flipping as a practical way to manage finances during the holidays, with 49% citing it as a method to avoid overspending.
The study also found humorous anecdotes, such as 44% of respondents accidentally regifting items to the original giver. Additionally, 50% of those surveyed admitted to buying gifts for others with the hope of receiving them back.
Grace Healy from DodoBurd.com commented on the findings, highlighting the significance of regifting in our holiday traditions and its role in supporting both emotional and economic well-being during the festive season.
The study’s results, including an interactive map showing the value of each state’s regifting economy, offer a fascinating glimpse into the modern dynamics of holiday gift-giving and receiving.