New Year's gift basket 2011: Bangkok's public spending totals 1.1 billion baht

A recent survey conducted by the Taihua Farmers Research Center from December 1 to 10 revealed that 57.8% of 528 consumers aged 15 to 65 in Bangkok plan to purchase a New Year gift basket this year, showing an upward trend compared to previous years. As has been the case in past seasons, most buyers intend to give gift baskets to family members, particularly their parents. Notably, 90% of respondents reported either maintaining or slightly increasing their gift basket budgets this year. Additionally, both the quantity and the price of gift baskets being purchased have risen. On average, individuals are now buying 3.66 gift baskets per person, up from 3.39 last year. The percentage of respondents planning to spend over 500 baht on a single gift basket has also increased. Based on these findings, the Taihua Farmers Research Center predicts that total New Year gift basket spending by Bangkok residents will reach 1.1 billion baht by year-end, representing a 12.7% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, the survey also highlighted changes in product preferences due to government regulations under the 2009 Alcoholic Drinks Management Act, which prohibit the inclusion of alcohol in New Year gift baskets. In response, retailers have shifted their strategies, offering more health-conscious and eco-friendly options. The results showed that Bangkok residents are increasingly interested in gift baskets containing healthy items such as bird’s nest, chicken essence, fruits, and vegetables. Meanwhile, the presence of alcoholic products in gift baskets has significantly declined. This shift reflects a growing consumer preference for healthier and more sustainable choices during the holiday season.