Kiwis Would Be Happier If They Bought Experiences
KIWIS WOULD BE HAPPIER IF THEY BOUGHT EXPERIENCES INSTEAD OF THINGS THIS CHRISTMAS, SAYS RAINBOW’S END
According to Rainbow’s End, Kiwis would be happier if they purchased experiences instead of things this Christmas. It might sound like flagrant promotion from the theme park, but recent research backs up the claim and suggests we all would be happier doing things rather than having things. A study conducted by San Francisco University has found that people who spend money on experiences rather than material items are happier and feel the money is better spent.
It is a trend that has become increasingly popular over past years. Much of this has to do with the impact Millennials are having. More than three in four Millennials (78%) would choose to spend money on an experience or event over buying something desirable. They want to spend their money being with others.
Another motivation is the development of social media. Factors such as craving for recognition (for example, how many likes someone gets on their Instagram post), and a, “fear of missing out,” help drive cravings for experiences.
Katharine Murray, Rainbow’s End Marketing Manager said:
“We have certainly noticed an increase in activity on our own social media channels. All generations, but especially that younger age-group, like their friends to see that they are out enjoying cool events and activities. They seem to value activities that will enhance their lives – and their Snapchat account – far more than material stuff.”
Rainbow’s End has capitalised on this growing trend by introducing unique events, such as the 6-11pm Christmas Night Rides, Night Frights evenings around Halloween, and various other experiences and events.
“Our gift vouchers are also proving popular, especially in the lead up to the holidays, added Katharine. “This shows that, as the research suggests, people of all ages are choosing to gift experiences, such as theme park visits, instead of a traditional material item. We believe it’s a natural reaction to the increase in advertising, and material consumer goods that people are being exposed to on a daily basis. The thrill of purchasing things fades quickly, but the joy and memories of experiences, from epic adventures to smaller encounters, can last a lifetime.”
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