Savvy South West: Survey reveals 36% of region sells unwanted items online
Are we living in a material world? A new survey has revealed that almost half (49%) of people in the South West would describe themselves as a materialist!
Our possessions have the ability to fill us with happiness and give us a sense of achievement, so it can be hard to let them go. The survey has revealed that when the region does get rid of items, 71% donate items to charity, 36% sell items online, and 31% recycle.
It seems the region doesn’t just keep things for the sake of it. In fact, 34% admitted to keeping things due to the sentimental value they hold, and 31% said they keep possessions just in case they need them one day.
The research, conducted by storage company Ready Steady Store, also looked into how much room our items take up in our homes, and revealed that the bedroom is where most people kept the majority of their possessions in the South West (31%), meaning they had very little room for much else.
Top 5 materialistic regions in the UK:
1. Northern Ireland – 56%
2. West Midlands – 50%
3. South West – 49%
4. East Midlands – 49%
5. London – 49%
Over half (57%) of those in the South West surveyed agreed that de-cluttering allows them to de-stress, but 17% said they simply don’t have time to have a clear out.
Interestingly, when it comes to the gifts we receive, the South West is extremely loyal. Over half (55%) say they would never re-gift something. However, women are the most likely to do this, with 23% saying they re-gift.
The survey is supported by an infographic which you can view here.
Marketing Manager for Ready Steady Store, Jacky Kearns commented: “A huge part of what we do is helping people keep the items they truly love and value when they don’t have enough space. We wanted to know why the UK keeps certain things, and why they might turn to storage. We understand that things can hold strong sentimental value, and the survey has given us a much better understanding of why our services might be needed. The things we own often give us a sense of identity, and for many people this is what makes it so difficult to part with them.”
