eBay Advertising research shows Brits prioritising their gardens this spring despite financial pressures

Now that we're in March, garden lovers across the UK are actively revamping their outdoor spaces - and this momentum is just beginning.

While cost and value remain front of mind for many, new eBay Advertising research (involving 2,003 Brits) shows that gardens are a priority. 70% of green fingered Brits surveyed plan to purchase items for their outdoor spaces this year, with 39% saying they’ll spend more this year than last.  

And 46% of eBay shoppers say they’re more likely to purchase a garden item after seeing an advert, reinforcing the role of targeted promotions in driving sales. 

With rising costs putting pressure on discretionary spending, some consumers are prioritising their gardens over leisure experiences. The research reveals that one in ten of those planning garden purchases are doing so instead of going on holiday.  

57% of shoppers looking to refresh their outdoor spaces this year are preparing for spring and summer. 39% plan to spend more on their gardens than in the past one to two years, reflecting ongoing investment in home spaces despite financial pressures. This rises to 43% among eBay shoppers specifically. 

Savvy shoppers are taking a strategic approach to their garden purchases, ensuring they find the best value before committing to buy. The study reveals that 74% of consumers surveyed are more likely to buy a garden item if it’s on sale, underscoring the role of deals and promotions. Additionally, 68% of respondents research their purchases in advance to secure the best price.  

Cost remains a crucial consideration, with 61% of garden shoppers citing affordability as a key factor in their decision-making. Meanwhile, among those not planning to spend on their garden this year, 37% point to budget constraints as their main reason for holding back. 

eBay UK platform data from 2024 shows that searches for seeds and plants peak in early spring, showing strong demand for budget friendly gardening essentials. Searches for “seeds” peaked during the third week of March last year (18th March), rising 9% on the previous week, while interest in “plants” surged during the first week of April (1st April), rising 11% on the week-on-week. 

Despite financial constraints, enthusiasm for garden improvements remains high. The research finds that 72% of garden owners enjoy spending money on enhancing their outdoor spaces. Among planned purchases, plants (57%), compost (39%) and seeds (36%) are the most sought after. 

In contrast to the early spring surge in searches for seeds and plants, eBay UK platform data reveals that larger investments, such as garden furniture, followed a more gradual trend. In 2024, searches for garden furniture, garden sofas and garden tables in the home and garden category steadily increased during the spring period. Searches peaked during the third week of April (15th April), a 27% increase on the same week in March, suggesting a considered approach to summer preparations. 

Billy Mills, Sr Director, Global Advertising at eBay, comments: “Spring shopping is officially underway, making this a crucial time for brands and sellers to capture early interest. As consumers look to refresh their gardens, affordability remains front of mind. Sellers should focus on boosting visibility through promotions and deals, as shoppers are increasingly researching and comparing options before purchasing."  

“eBay Advertising offers data driven solutions like Promoted Listings, helping ensure products stand out at the right moment. By capturing attention early in the season, brands and sellers can convert intent into sales, drive conversions, and stay ahead in a competitive market.” 

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Online retail will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in March, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.