As sustainable consumerism grows, India’s approach to gifting has also changed. What started as a trend has now become a necessity, with sustainable gifts rapidly gaining popularity across the country. According to the Indian Retailers Association, 68 per cent of urban consumers now consider green products important, up from 42 per cent just two years ago. Amid this green shift, leading corporate gifting organisations have quietly but consistently contributed to sustainability, working towards a greener future.
The shift in consumer attitudes has driven the rise of sustainable gifts in India. People are becoming more aware of the environment, turning green gifting into a popular trend. As of August 2024, 65 per cent of consumers in Tier-I cities prefer eco-friendly products, with 55 per cent in Tier-II cities and 45 per cent in Tier-III cities doing the same. This shows that green gifting is not just fashionable but necessary, highlighting the growing demand for sustainable products across the country.
Market Availability and Accessibility
The market expansion of eco-friendly brands has significantly increased availability, offering a wide range of options at competitive prices. Affordability has become a key factor, with 70 per cent of consumers now finding sustainable gifts within their budget. This widespread accessibility is driving the popularity of green gifting, making it a preferred choice for consumers across all city tiers.
Brands are offering eco-friendly gifts that are both beautiful and practical, focusing on reducing waste. For example, energy-efficient tech products and items that can biodegrade are leading the way in sustainable gifting. These innovations make green gifts environmentally friendly and stylish, appealing to a wide range of consumers who want items that fit into modern life while caring for the planet.
However, consumers are also smart enough to differentiate between a genuine and flimsy promise. Hence, offerings have to be trustworthy not just a mere promise on the outer side. To reduce environmental impact, almost 6 out of 10 customers are willing to change their shopping habits. But nobody is doing enough to make it happen.
Corporate Responsibility and Impact
Businesses are using sustainable corporate gifts to show their commitment to the environment and inspire change. This approach also strengthens customer loyalty, which is key to promoting eco-friendly business practices. By doing so, companies encourage other parts of the market to adopt sustainable ways of consuming goods and services.
Eco-friendly gifting has become a natural part of Indian customs, especially during festivals and celebrations. Companies are offering consumer-friendly products that are recyclable and can be personalised, adding a personal and emotional touch to the gifts.
In India you will see, many well-known gifting companies are opting to sustainability as their core value. A top-player in the corporate gifting sector has started their in-house sustainability product line and also promised 100 per cent plastic-free packaging which resulted in a two per cent growth than the expected annual growth rate. A renowned biomaterial startup, primarily a D2C platform, disclosed that demand for their sustainable gifting has quadrupled in the last 6 years in B2B segment. Another top player in D2C segment also stated that sustainable gifts have driven their festive gifting revenue last year.
While focusing on sustainability, we must be very clear that it just does not end at the point of purchasing. There also should be focus on creating circular value chains to limit waste and pollution also consumption while reusing as many raw materials as possible. Steps like these could help convert a cynical customer into a loyal one.
By choosing eco-friendly options, consumers are not only making thoughtful choices for their loved ones but also contributing to a healthier planet. Sustainable gifting is here to stay, marking a significant shift in how we celebrate and show care in our everyday lives.
Views of the author are personal and do not necessarily represent the website’s views.
Mr. Gaurav Bhagat is a celebrated personality in the world of sales, entrepreneurship, and finance education, affectionately known as GB. As the Founder and Managing Director of Consortium Gifts, one of Asia’s leading corporate gifting companies, he has transformed the gifting industry over the past 25 years. With over 30 years of experience, GB is not just an entrepreneur or skill training coach; he is the foremost sales trainer in Asia, a visionary entrepreneur, and a dynamic business consultant for various leading brands.
Mr. Gaurav Bhagat is a celebrated personality in the world of sales, entrepreneurship, and finance education, affectionately known as GB. As the Founder and Managing Director of Consortium Gifts, one of Asia’s leading corporate gifting companies, he has transformed the gifting industry over the past 25 years. With over 30 years of experience, GB is not just an entrepreneur or skill training coach; he is the foremost sales trainer in Asia, a visionary entrepreneur, and a dynamic business consultant for various leading brands.
