Valentine's Day 2025 is shaping up to be quite different from previous years, with health-focused gifts taking center stage among consumers in Thailand. A recent report from The 1 Insight highlights the growing popularity of 'Healthy Gifting', where gifts associated with health and wellness have seen sales increase by over 100% compared to previous years.
These shifts mirror the global megatrend of health consciousness, as individuals prioritize their well-being and the well-being of their loved ones. The top five trending gifts this year include fitness equipment, smartwatches, sports shoes, workout apparel, and sports accessories, all reflecting the current lifestyle trends promoting health and activity.
The overall spending during Valentine's Day also reflects this trend, with Thai consumers expected to increase their spending by more than 20% compared to last year. This uptick demonstrates the importance of Valentine's Day as not only an occasion to express love but also as an opportunity to show care through thoughtful gift-giving.
An analysis based on generational spending habits reveals fascinating insights. Generation Z (ages 13-28) tends to focus on enjoyment and vibrancy on this romantic holiday, favoring cosmetics, perfumes, and alcoholic beverages. On the other hand, Generation Y (ages 29-44) is increasingly investing in health and beauty, purchasing more sportswear, jewelry, and fashion accessories because they see these gifts as enhancers of both health and self-image.
For Generation X (ages 45-60) and Baby Boomers (ages 61-79), there's a stronger emphasis on taking care of health. This demographic is more likely to buy sports equipment, skincare products, and ingredients for homemade meals, underscoring their commitment to maintaining wellness and balance.
According to The 1 Insight, the top ten Valentine's Day gifts for 2025 based on projected sales are: 1. Flowers, 2. Fitness equipment, 3. Smartwatches, 4. Jewelry, 5. Stuffed toys, 6. Sportswear, 7. Chocolates/cookies, 8. Watches, 9. Perfumes, and 10. Sports shoes. This diverse range of gifts highlights the unique blend of traditional and modern gifting practices.
Public sentiment about Valentine's Day remains overwhelmingly positive. Research from CRC VoiceShare shows 80% of respondents view the day as 'an opportunity to express love and care', with just 15% considering it merely 'a festival for teenagers' and 5% seeing it as 'a chance for business'.
When it come to festive activities, the top five favorites include dining out, shopping, going to the movies, cooking at home, and exercising together. Notably, the choice of recipients also varies, with 45% of people preferring to gift family members, followed closely by romantic partners at 40%. Friends and self-gifting account for 10% and 5% respectively.
Most individuals plan to spend between 500 to 2,000 baht on gifts and typically purchase them about a week before Valentine’s Day. This careful planning signifies thoughtfulness and anticipation leading up to the celebration.
This Valentine's Day, 'Healthy Gifting' not only reflects changing consumer desires but also emphasizes the heightened focus on health and well-being among Thai gift-givers. Despite the shift toward health-oriented gifts, the overall spending commitment remains strong, showing the enduring importance of love and affection during this celebrated festival.