Men who usually embark on a frantic last-minute dash for a Christmas gift for their loved one can rest easy and head down to their nearest interiors store, but they might want to book a professional to complete the job.
A consumer survey has revealed that 51% of UK women would prefer Santa to redecorate and fit new flooring throughout their homes instead of delivering other more expensive gifts including upgraded technology, a three-month holiday or even a new car. However, 36% also said they don’t trust their partner with a painting and decorating project.
The survey, conducted by flooring retailer Factory Direct Flooring, of more than 1,000 female respondents from across the UK, discovered what women would put at the top of their 2022 Christmas list.
The next most popular item on the gift wish list was going travelling for three months – opted for by a quarter of those surveyed. 10% would ask for a new car, and just 9% said they would like a whole new wardrobe of clothes and shoes. Just 2% would choose upgraded technology such as a new phone, laptop or TV – an option beaten marginally by plastic surgery, which 3% of those surveyed would choose.
And when asked if they could choose any major home improvement from a selection including new furniture, flooring, garden renovation, decoration or a new kitchen or bathroom, 29% opted for a new kitchen. A bathroom project was third on the list (21%) and new flooring would be chosen by 17%.
‘The results that redecoration and new flooring would be at the top of 51% of Christmas lists is surprising. We were sure a new car or technology would come out trumps, but it just goes to show how home has become an increasingly important place where we work, exercise and socialise. With all the uncertainty that surrounds us today, it is also our sanctuary. Making it as comfortable, attractive and functional as possible is clearly a key goal for many homeowners. It’s a time-honoured tradition for men to panic buy late in the festive season, but these results show that they could make it easy on themselves this year – buy some paint from a local store and have some click flooring delivered. But if they want to be sure of enjoying their gift far beyond the Christmas period, they had better check if they’re trusted to pick up a roller,’ says Paul Hambidge, FDF founder.
