According to the Mall at Wellington Green’s holiday poll, 48 percent of area shoppers got a jump on holiday gifts this year by either shopping year-round or starting their search in October or November, while 47 percent planned to start their holiday shopping after Thanksgiving, and just 5 percent will wait until the last minute.
The poll, which surveyed 266 individuals in the Palm Beach area, also found that area shoppers are self-sufficient, with more than 65 percent saying they like to wrap their own presents, while 18 percent would like someone else to do it, 8 percent would donate to a charity to wrap and 9 percent plan to use gift bags.
To fit this demand, the Mall at Wellington Green is offering a free do-it-yourself gift wrap station across from the Ice Palace in the Grand Court, complete with wrapping paper, ribbons and bows.
More than 60 percent of survey respondents said going to the mall was a preferred way to shop because they can touch and feel items and instantly have them in-hand, while about 33 percent said they enjoy going to the mall for time with family and friends.
The survey also found that sugar cookies rule, with 54 percent of respondents choosing it as their favorite cookie, followed by only 22 percent rooting for the “holiday classic” gingerbread.
In addition, the poll reports that stumped shoppers should focus on fun or electronics, with 34 percent of respondents choosing experiences as the hottest gift, followed by 32 percent who chose electronics and 22 percent who would prefer self-care items.
“It was so fun to do this poll and get a feel for what our community enjoys throughout the holiday season,” said Rachelle Crain, marketing director at the Mall at Wellington Green. “The Mall at Wellington Green definitely has what our shoppers are looking for this season, and we’re excited to offer amazing holiday events like our annual visits with Santa and holiday dance and music performances, along with our free DIY gift wrapping station, which truly make our center a one-stop destination this season.”
The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd. at the intersection of Forest Hill Blvd. and State Road 7 in Wellington. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Restaurant, theater, department store and holiday hours may vary.
For more information, visit www.shopwellingtongreen.com.
