In a world dominated by instant messaging and digital communication, a recent poll of 2,000 Brits has revealed a surprising truth: greeting cards still hold a special place in our hearts. While emails and text messages reign supreme in terms of frequency (both at 30%), and social media notes are used by 25%, a significant 70% of respondents consider paper notes more meaningful and exciting to receive. This sentiment is deeply rooted in the personal touch and emotional connection that handwritten cards offer.
Two-thirds of those surveyed (66%) feel that cards are more personal due to their handwritten nature, while 64% appreciate the fact that the card was likely chosen specifically for them. Furthermore, nearly one in five (19%) claim receiving a card provides a brief respite from their worries, 28% shared that they’ve cried happy tears from opening one, and 57% believe that it strengthens bonds with loved ones. These findings showcase the powerful impact a simple greeting card can have on an individual’s well-being and relationships.
The research also unveiled that Brits are a nation of card hoarders, with 22% admitting to keeping every card they receive. This speaks volumes about the sentimental value attached to these physical tokens of affection. The study found that 14% will display a card for just a few days, while 31% have kept them on show for five years or more, citing reasons such as reminding them of someone special (24%), providing comfort (21%), and bringing joy (20%).
The research comes as Gala Bingo, an online bingo company, collaborates with Moonpig, a leading online greeting card and gift retailer, to launch a limited edition collection of bingo-call-themed greeting cards. Sara Jolly, from Gala Bingo, highlighted the unique joy associated with receiving a handwritten card, emphasizing the personal connection and community it fosters. She stated, “There are not many other things that bring the same joy as receiving a handwritten card in the post from family or friends, let’s be honest. Personal messages in any form are lovely, and there’s nothing wrong with a text or email, but something about that moment of connection and community when we tear open the envelope and see the card that’s been selected for us is hard to beat.”
The study also delved into the gifting aspect of cards, revealing that 56% of Brits enjoy giving and receiving cards equally. A remarkable 80% believe that a feeling of joy is shared between the sender and the recipient, demonstrating the mutual happiness derived from this simple gesture. The research further indicates that nearly half of Brits (49%) take pleasure in knowing they’ll brighten someone’s day with a card, while 46% simply enjoy the act of writing heartfelt words for a loved one. When it comes to card preferences, witty or humorous cards emerged as the most popular choice (45%), followed by those featuring designs of flowers (31%) and animals (30%).
The study also revealed that 17% of adults have participated in community card-sending initiatives, where cards are sent to individuals like care home residents who might otherwise not receive them. This heartwarming practice showcases the power of a simple card to bring sunshine into someone’s day and foster a sense of community. Sara Jolly concluded by expressing her enthusiasm for the new bingo-themed card range with Moonpig, stating, “Most of us are touched by greeting cards that are personal to us, which is why we like to hang on to them—sometimes for years. And it’s wonderful to see so many Brits love to use humour to spread happiness, too. But it’s also lovely to see how many people would consider spreading a bit of joy in the wider community, by sending someone in need a card to bring some sunshine into their day. We are thrilled to introduce our first ever card range with Moonpig and hope the collection brings joy across the UK.”
The bingo-themed card range is available to purchase nationwide exclusively on the Moonpig website from now until the end of the year, allowing everyone to spread joy and laughter through the power of a simple greeting card.
