Secret friend should move R$ 6.7 billion in the economy, says research

The traditional secret friend game should move R$ 6.7 billion in the Brazilian economy.

A survey carried out by the National Confederation of Shopkeepers (CNDL) and by the Credit Protection Service (SPC Brasil) showed that 36% of Brazilians — or 58.6 million people — intend to participate in events with the exchange of gifts during the Christmas festivities. end of the year.

In general, consumers participate in secret friends with family (71%), with friends (36%) and with work colleagues (30%). The average value of gifts must be R$74.

The reasons for participating are varied: 58% love this type of event, 43% consider it a good way to save on gifts, since the person buys only one instead of spending on souvenirs for several friends and relatives, and 8% participate just to not be judged as antisocial.

“The secret friend is an excellent way to save money and at the same time keep alive the tradition of giving gifts to loved ones. In addition, the collective get-together solves the obligation of having to give gifts to several people, since each one is in charge of only one participant and, in the end, no one is left without a gift”, explained the president of the CNDL, José César da Costa.

On the other hand, the survey showed that, among the 43% who do not intend to participate, 40% report that they are not used to playing this game, 38% say they do not like Secret Friends and 21% are without money.

“If the person is in debt or has a tight budget, the priority should be to settle the bills and keep the expenses up to date, because even the purchase of a cheaper item may be missed.”, advised Costa.

Consumers from all Brazilian state capitals, aged 18 or over, were heard in the survey. Data collection took place between October 10th and 17th.