It’s more than just presents! Employees look to employers for help to pay for the holiday season – whether it’s gadgets or groceries
Perkbox Viup data shows that British employees increasingly depend on their employers to provide financial assistance in the run-up to Christmas, which is notoriously expensive.
Between October and November of 2024, the platform’s discounts-and-perks solution, that offers savings at UK retailers grew by 75%. These are key months when it comes to shopping for gifts. Data also shows that salary sacrifice schemes have become more appealing for electronics and household necessities. Employers offer these schemes to employees, which allow them to spread the cost of big-ticket items like MacBooks and PS5s over several paychecks. Perkbox Vivup’s Q4 sales have already increased by 75% compared to the Q3 figures. This period represents nearly half of all purchases in 2024.
Supporting everyday essentials
But the festive spending wasn’t all about luxuries. The data shows that many workers ask their employers for help with essentials like groceries. Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda were the top three retailers for discounts redeemed, with redemptions much higher than they were last year. Perkbox Vivup recorded the following between November 2023 to November 2024:
- Tesco’s redemptions are being used more than ever before, by 87%.
- Sainsbury’s redeems are up 60%;
- Asda’s redemptions have increased by 53%.
Doug Butler , CEO of Perkbox Vivup , comments on the findings. “Family celebrations and other personal holidays are becoming more expensive in this cost-of living crisis. This presents employers with an excellent opportunity to step up and provide meaningful financial assistance during this period, and ensure that every employee feels valued. Businesses can show their understanding of their employees’ challenges by offering individualised assistance for special occasions such as the holidays. This will foster a feeling of support and appreciation among their staff.
Perkbox Vivup data shows employers increasing support for Christmas, according to HR News .
