Deliveroo sees surging demand for Christmas gifting and last-minute supplies in December

Of all the non-food categories, Christmas crackers saw the biggest jump in orders compared with December 2024, with over 30% of these ordered on December 23 or 24.

Christmas decoration and party supply orders surged 60% year on year, along with wrapping paper and gift bag orders growing 30%.

With partnerships including Boots, The Perfume Shop, The Entertainer and Accessorize, Deliveroo saw orders for perfumes rise over 180%, toys over 160%, and health and beauty appliances soared 350%, compared with December 2024.

Beauty products such as haircare, face creams and makeup all saw triple-digit growth as party season arrived.

Deliveroo said in terms of total order volumes of non-food retail categories, cough, cold and flu medication was the most sought after. Orders for portable heaters and duvets increased by 250% and 290%, respectively.

Deliveroo vice president of consumer and new verticals Suzy McClintock said: “Our platform allows retailers to offer same-day, on-demand delivery at crucial seasonal moments.

“Adopting a ‘think like a retailer’ philosophy, we significantly enhanced our platform to support retailers and consumers alike over the festive period, increasing our range, promotions and geographical coverage.

“Whether it was last-minute Christmas decorations, treating winter illnesses, or high-value gifting, we provided retailers with a fast route to customers’ doors, precisely when they needed it most.”