As the festive season approaches, Christmas hampers once again become a staple of gifting. Especially when it comes to client or employee Christmas gifts. Packed with indulgent treats and thoughtful extras, they’ve long been a symbol of generosity and celebration. But behind the glossy marketing lies a growing problem: the traditional “wicker basket” isn’t all it seems — and it’s far from sustainable.
The Myth of the Wicker Basket
When you imagine a Christmas hamper, chances are you picture a rustic wicker basket, hand weaved in a forest – sturdy, traditional, and seemingly eco-friendly. Unfortunately, the reality is quite different.
- Not actually wicker: The majority of “wicker” hampers sold in the UK aren’t genuine handwoven wicker. Instead, they’re often made from cheaper, synthetic alternatives that don’t biodegrade. This results in a huge surface area of unrecyclable plastic.
- Shipped from halfway around the world: Even when they are woven, they are frequently mass-produced overseas and transported thousands of miles, racking up a heavy carbon footprint before even reaching UK shelves.
- Difficult to reuse: While marketed as “keepsakes”, many baskets end up shoved in cupboards or, worse, in landfill, because they are bulky and impractical for everyday use.
What seems like a wholesome, traditional option is in fact a product of unsustainable supply chains that contradict the spirit of thoughtful gifting.
A More Sustainable Alternative
We spoke to UK-based ethical gifting company WellBox, who have taken a stand against unsustainable packaging. Instead of baskets, they use beautiful, sturdy, fully recyclable gift boxes designed with both the recipient and the planet in mind.
WellBox go a step further by providing recipients with creative ideas for reusing their gift boxes. From stylish storage at home to repurposing as craft boxes or organisers, these hampers are designed to live on well past Christmas – without gathering dust or contributing to waste.
Why It Matters This Christmas
With growing awareness around sustainability, businesses and individuals alike are beginning to rethink their gifting habits. By swapping out imported wicker baskets for recyclable boxes, we can:
- Reduce unnecessary shipping emissions
- Support UK-based businesses committed to sustainability
- Give gifts that truly keep on giving, both to recipients and the planet
This Christmas, let’s not fall for the “traditional” trap. A hamper can be just as festive and luxurious without the hidden environmental cost of a faux-wicker basket shipped across the globe.
✨ In short: When it comes to Christmas hampers, sustainable doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Companies like WellBox prove that you can deliver joy, thoughtfulness, and responsibility in one beautifully presented package.