There’s no denying that Christmas has become an over commercialised holiday often associated with wasteful, unsustainable purchases . But what do you buy when you still want to treat friends and family yet don’t want to add to unnecessary waste?
We’ve compiled a list of reasons why giving food and drink gifts at Christmas is a thoughtful and popular choice.
Food & Drink is Universal: Everybody eats and drinks. No need for sizes, no guessing colour preferences, no wondering if it’s “their style.” Food and drink is the great unifier. A beautiful panettone, a box of truffles, or a good bottle of wine will always be appreciated. It’s a gift that speaks to all of us.
It’s Instantly Enjoyable: Think about it. You give someone a box of chocolates or a gorgeous bottle of something aged to perfection, and they can dive in right away. There’s no setup, no assembly, no batteries required. Just open and enjoy. What could be better?
It Brings People Together: A food or drink gift isn’t just about sustenance; it’s an invitation to gather around. That tin of biscuits or festive spiced nuts you gave? It’s likely to become part of a shared experience — something people nibble on during a cosy family movie or around a crackling fire.
It’s Personal, Yet Safe: Food can be deeply personal — a particular spice, a signature flavour, or that one cocktail bottle that brings it all together. But it’s also safe. If you give someone a high-quality olive oil, say, it feels thoughtful without being overly specific. It’s like saying, “I thought about you” without the guesswork.
Gourmet and Luxurious: For many, Christmas is a time to indulge, to savour something special. A gift of fine chocolate, a unique cheese, or an artisanal preserve is pure luxury — something they may not think to buy for themselves. You’re treating them to an experience, a little bit of decadence, a moment of pure enjoyment.
It’s Thoughtful but Convenient: Let’s be honest — gifting food can make life easier, too. A lovely gift box of Devon delicacies or a craft beer assortment is straightforward yet full of personality. It’s a beautiful balance: thoughtful and easy, personal but not too complicated.
It Appeals to the Senses: Sight, smell, taste — food is a sensory experience. Think about giving a spice set or an aromatic coffee blend. The person receiving it isn’t just getting a gift; they’re getting an experience, a memory, a story. They open that box, take in the aroma, and suddenly, it’s magic.
Lasting Memories: Certain foods have a way of embedding themselves in memory. You give someone a box of their favourite Devon cheeses, and next year they’re thinking of that moment as they lay out their Christmas cheese board. Food has a way of anchoring memories, and your gift becomes a little piece of their Christmas tradition.
Customisable for Any Budget: Whether you’re going big with a deluxe hamper or just gifting a beautifully wrapped single-origin chocolate bar, food and drink gifts can suit any budget. They’re flexible, and there’s a wonderful option for every price range.
It Shows You Know Them: A food or drink gift is a lovely way to show you’ve paid attention. They always order a Negroni? They’re getting a Negroni. Can’t stop talking about their morning coffee? You’re finding them a gorgeous bag of beans from a small roaster. It’s personal and specific without being intrusive.
It Supports Local and Artisan Producers: Lastly, Many people now appreciate receiving high-quality, locally-made, or handcrafted items. By giving speciality food and drink items, you can support small businesses and artisans while giving a meaningful gift.
There you have it. Food and drink are more than just gifts; they're little moments of joy wrapped up and ready to be enjoyed. They're thoughtful, versatile, and most importantly - delicious.
Now pour yourself a glass of something nice, and start making that list. Perhaps you might even include one of our gift boxes. Cheers!