Teads UK’s Insights Unveil: Food Forms a Key Part of Valentine’s Celebrations & Gift-Giving This Year

Global media platform Teads today (January 17th, 2025) unveils a series of UK consumer insights around Valentine’s Day, looking at the different ways in which people plan to celebrate and what gifts they will buy loved ones. 

According to the ‘Charm your way to hearts and sales’ research, relationship status impacts romantic intentions, with 85% of people in relationships in the UK planning to celebrate Valentine’s Day in 2025, whereas 39% of married people don’t intend to celebrate. The data highlights the importance of targeting and tailored ad messages for brands’ Valentine’s campaigns.

Anticipation and preparations make the 14^th of February very special, and looking for romantic gifts is definitely an essential aspect of the pre-Valentine’s period. This is also a great opportunity for brands to connect with those looking for inspiration in the days leading up to Valentine’s Day. 

The majority of people who celebrate this day tend to get presents for their loved ones, but their choices vary widely, with cards topping the charts, followed by chocolates, flowers, fragrances, food, clothing, and jewellery. 

The survey finds that food forms a key part of Valentine’s celebrations, with 17% of married people in the UK planning to gift food to loved ones. What’s more, 40% of people in the UK plan to cook a special meal at home on Valentine’s Day in 2025. However, people over 55s more inclined to do so than younger generations. Instead, 18-34-year-olds prefer eating out on Valentine’s Day. 

Takeaway food has also become a popular choice of people in the UK on Valentine’s Day. This opens up opportunities for delivery services and restaurants to create actionable ad experiences during this period.

Sarah Tsirkas, retail industry director at Teads UK, comments: “It’s interesting to see the different ways in which people plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, with gift-giving and food continuing to play a significant role in this. This is good news for food retailers and brands who can use this opportunity to connect with those looking for inspiration in the days leading up to Valentine’s Day. For these brands, strategic planning of their advertising campaigns, both in terms of messaging and timing, is crucial.”

To learn more about UK consumer attitudes and gifting plans for Valentine's Day in 2025, download the full report.