Gifts for groups that are COVID-safe and sustainable

Because a biscuit variety tin won’t cut it for the office this year.

We’ve all had to make a lot of changes this year, and the way we shop has been a big one. As the festive period fast approaches, this means our Christmas shopping is going to look quite different, too.

Because of COVID-19 and its transmission risks, buying for groups of people – colleagues, sports teams, hobby circles and so on – is going to be a bit more challenging since the usual bottles of fizz or boxes of chocolates to share are now big safety no-nos. And let’s be honest, who has the time or inclination to shop for everyone individually?

But it’s not impossible. Think beyond the usual go-to pressies and there are lots of options for group gifts that are thoughtful and safe – and better still, sustainable. One major takeaway from 2020 has been the importance of our natural environment, and these wonderful gift ideas keep that in mind while making sure everyone on your team can still enjoy a bit of festive fun.

1. Whittard tea selection box – gifts up to 8

Forget the boring builder’s cuppa, this beautiful selection box from Whittard contains eight exciting types of tea from around the world – each packaged individually in gorgeous vintage-style boxes. The teabags are compostable, while Whittard is a member of the Ethical Tea Partnership, ensuring that its tea gardens work to strict sustainable, ethical and socially responsible standards. 
£25, whittard.co.uk

2. Luxe vegan shampoo bars set – gifts up to 8

Regular shampoo is all too often full of chemicals and packed in plastic – these vegan shampoo bars are much kinder to the environment, and to your hair. All of the bars are palm-free, vegan, cruelty-free, sulphate-free, preservative-free and paraben-free, and are packed full of natural – great-smelling! – ingredients that boost the health of your hair.
£29.95, etsy.com

3. Colourful bamboo socks – gifts up to 7

These brightly-coloured socks are guaranteed to inject a bit of cheer into what has been an otherwise depressing year. Made from bamboo they’re not only beautifully soft but their sustainability credentials are top notch – Rapanui’s website lets you trace and learn about their journey from the field to your doormat! You can even choose which patterns make it into your selection box for a more personal touch.
£35, rapanuiclothing.com

4. Fun wax food wraps – gifts up to 10

Wax wraps have gotten a lot of press in recent times, and for good reason! They’re a completely natural, plastic-free alternative to cling film. Many are made from beeswax, but these vegan beauties are made from plant-based waxes and can be used to wrap pretty much anything! This selection pack includes 10 individually-packaged large wraps in lots of lovely bright colours and patterns – perfect for getting your colleagues prepared for a more sustainable way of bringing lunch to the office when we eventually return.
£22.95, etsy.com

5. Bee and butterfly-friendly Seedboms – gifts up to 10

We all know how important it is to create an environment that’s kind to bees and other bugs, and these fun Seedboms make that really easy! Each biodegradable ‘grenade’ is full of wildflower seeds designed to thrive in any area in need of beautification. Just shake, soak, throw and grow! This set of 10 contains a variety of wildflower types, and will give each recipient even more of a reason to look forward to spring.
£35, kabloom.co.uk

6. Fairtrade cookies – gifts up to 16

Okay, we were quick to badmouth the biscuit idea, but that’s only because the usual variety tin invites a procession of choosy hands – and hand hygiene has taken on a whole new meaning this year! But you can avoid those concerns and still share a tasty treat with your team thanks to this multipack of yummy fruit and oat cookies. Each individual package contains two chunky biccies which are Fairtrade certified, so you can indulge with a clean conscience.
£10, premcrest.co.uk

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