More than two-thirds (68%) of consumers agree that Australians need to rethink gift giving and give more sustainably, according to a recent study by group gifting website, GroupTogether.com.

The study also found that six in 10 (60%) consumers would prefer an e-gift card rather than a gift a friend chose for them.

Toys, jigsaw puzzles and board games were mentioned by 20% of Australians who know what presents they’re going to buy this Christmas, closely followed by vouchers and gift cards (18%), then clothing, shoes and sleepwear (16%).

The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) with Roy Morgan estimate that Australians will spend $11 billion on Christmas gifts and will receive $572 million of unwanted gifts this year. In addition, the holidays generate excess waste including 150,000km of wrapping paper.

GroupTogether co-founder, Ali Linz said, “It’s time we started a movement to rethink the way we gift. There’s a simple way to reduce the waste by 93% – group gift. This means someone will receive a gift they want rather than 20 different gifts they don’t want for a birthday, farewell, baby shower or Christmas. It also saves money because each person can spend less but give better.

“GroupTogether makes it simple for everyone to chip in and sign a card online for a group gift and keepsake card including photos.”

GroupTogether co-founder, Julie Tylman added, “Over 500,000 Australians use GroupTogether to group gift and this has grown exponentially. Not only are customers helping save the planet, it’s also better for the recipient as they get a better gift. “It is personal too because of the bespoke card with everyone’s messages and photos. Group gifting ticks all the boxes.”

To create a group gift or group card, simply create a collection and invite friends via email, text or WhatsApp. Friends click to pay safely online and sign the card with the ability to keep track and send reminders. Give a gift from GroupTogether retail partners including Amazon, Baby Village, Dymocks, Hoyts, Priceline, Webjet, and many more, withdraw it or split it.