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Changing Dynamics of Father's Day Gifts

Father's Day, celebrated in many countries, has often revolved around traditional gifts such as alcohol or ties. However, recent trends indicate a significant shift towards more practical and engaging gifts that can be enjoyed by the entire family. A survey conducted by DJI, a global leader in consumer drones and camera technology, reveals compelling insights into this evolving preference.

The Survey Insights

A recent survey of 600 men and women aged 20-60 across the country unraveled some surprising findings about what people consider ideal gifts for Father’s Day. While alcohol still holds the top spot for gifts (30.1%), there has been a notable decline in its popularity compared to previous years. The traditional choices, like ties and clothing, have also seen a drop to just 13.7%. Instead, gifts like sweets (21.9%) and gourmet food experiences (21.0%) are on the rise.

Furthermore, over 40% of respondents admitted to having felt like they had failed in their gift-giving at some point, primarily due to mismatched preferences or sizes.

Frequency of Giving Gifts

Looking at how often people actually gift on Father’s Day, only 21% of respondents reported giving gifts regularly, either annually (16.2%) or every few years (4.8%). The pattern is even less common among married individuals when it comes to giving gifts to their fathers-in-law, suggesting a lack of established gifting customs.

The Decline of Traditional Gifts

Historically, gifts like alcohol and clothing have been staples for Father’s Day. The survey's results confirm that these gifts have been popular choices for many years. However, as consumer preferences shift, these items are losing ground. The increase in popularity of sweets and gourmet foods points towards a broader societal change—one where the focus is moving away from mere material gifts towards experiences and moments of connection.

What Drives the Change?

One of the primary reasons for this change in gifting habits is the renewed emphasis on shared experiences rather than individualistic gifts. Families are increasingly looking for ways to enjoy time together, making consumable gifts more appealing. Instead of merely providing an item, givers are seeking ways to foster memories and relationships through their gifts.

The Risk of Gift-Giving

It is crucial to consider the risk of gift-giving as well. A notable 41.1% of participants reported feeling they had given a ‘bad’ gift. This can stem from a variety of reasons: from not aligning with the recipient's tastes or being too generic, which ultimately results in an impression that fades quickly. This highlights the complexities involved in selecting the right gift for Dad.

Gifting Preferences: Taste Over Trends

When it comes to choosing the perfect gift, respondents indicated that the foremost concern is understanding the recipient's preferences, accounting for 63.5% of responses. The practical value of a gift ranks second (40.2%), with affordability coming in at 26.0%. It’s evident that ensuring a gift will be appreciated and used remains a top priority.

The Next Generation of Gifts: Portable Power Stations

Among the emerging options, portable power stations have begun to capture attention. These gadgets cater to various lifestyles, especially for fathers who enjoy outdoor activities or DIY projects. They prove beneficial for charging devices during outings, using kitchen appliances outdoors, or preparing for emergencies.

The practical utility combined with the novelty of a gadget that many fathers might not splurge on themselves makes it an attractive gift option. It provides an opportunity to accompany the gift with thoughtful messages that resonate with the father’s hobbies or lifestyle, enhancing its emotional value.

Conclusion

This year's survey has shed light on the shifting landscape of Father’s Day gifting. Traditional gifts like alcohol and attire are experiencing a fall from grace, while items that promote family experiences and enjoyment are gaining strong traction. With nearly half of gift-givers feeling a sense of failure in their previous choices, the importance of understanding the recipient's interests and practical needs cannot be overstated.

As families embrace these new trends, it could be beneficial for givers to focus not just on what to give but on how their gifts can create memorable experiences and strengthen relationships. Therefore, as Father’s Day approaches, consider how a gift can be more than just an item—think about how it can contribute to shared moments and happiness.

Survey Overview

Participants: 600 men and women aged 20-60 nationally
Survey Date: May 21, 2025
Method: Internet survey

Sources: DJI research; For quotes and republishing, please note DJI as the source and include the URL: https://www.dji.com/jp/portable-power-station.