EOFY sales are a peak time for shopping passions despite cost of living pressures

15 June 2023, Australia: New research by eBay Australia has revealed that despite increasing cost of living challenges putting a dent in Aussies’ pockets, spending on passions prevails. With end-of-financial year (EOFY) sales just around the corner, eBay’s research found over 45%¹ of Australians surveyed eagerly await sales moments to buy non-essential items and over 55%² spend half or more of their EOFY budget on the things that truly bring them joy during this time.

The research reveals Australians are increasingly embracing EOFY sales year after year, with 30%³ of respondents spending $500 or more during the sales in 2021, and this percentage increasing to over 35%⁴in 2022. This shows no sign of slowing down, with one in five (nearly 20%)⁵ respondents planning to ramp up their spending even more during the 2023 EOFY sales.

Navigating the cost of living to embrace passions

In the past 12 months, Australians have become savvier in managing their finances, with three in five (60%)⁶ surveyed stating they are now budgeting more carefully due to feeling the cost of living pinch.

With rising inflation, finding a balance between spending on passions and financial obligations is key for almost half of Aussie respondents (45%)⁷. However, for some, nurturing passions take priority with one in five (approximately 20%)⁸ surveyed putting spending on their passions above putting away savings.

The research unveiled the popular passions Australians surveyed are eager to embrace this EOFY are

• Upgrading the home and/or home office: over 35%⁹ of Australians surveyed plan on transforming their living and/or home office spaces. eBay data reveals in 2022, bedside tables, coffee tables, and desks were among the most searched-for items in June 2022.¹⁰
  
• Holidays and travel: over 30%¹¹ of respondents are ready to pack their bags and invest in the thrill of exploration with eye masks, suitcases and travel pillows some of the top searched travel items on eBay in June 2022.¹²
  
• Fitness and wellness: almost 30%¹³ of those surveyed are committed to nurturing their physical and mental well-being
• Baking and cooking: 25%¹⁴ of Australians surveyed will don their aprons to improve their culinary prowess with air fryers, cake toppers and chocolate moulds some of the most searched-for items in June 2022.¹⁵
• Beauty and self-care: over 20%¹⁶ are dedicated to pampering themselves with beauty and self-care products this EOFY

eBay data further revealed the most popular searched-for items in parts and accessories were Anderson plugs, car stickers and lightbars last year in June¹⁷. For Aussies passionate about restoring vintage cars, EH Holden, FJ Holden and HR Holden were some of the most searched-for models in the category.¹⁸

To help Australians fuel their passions this EOFY, eBay is offering 20% off eligible items with more savings** for eBay Plus members across categories like home and garden, automotive parts and accessories, electronics until June 21 and weekly deals.

eBay spokesperson Zannie Abbott says, “It’s clear that despite inflation, Aussies are still looking to find joy in the things they love whether that be a passion for modifying  cars, decorating their home or travel. At eBay, we are helping Australians fuel their passions by offering big discounts on home items like adjustable electric chairs, standing desks to car toolkits for your Ute. This end of the financial year you can find it all on eBay at great prices.”

Ben Neal, Director of Benny's Custom Works and YouTube personality says, "I’ve been working on cars for years. I'm always on the hunt for parts to upgrade and modify my cars. If you're looking to upgrade your car, van, 4x4 or ute, the EOFY sales on eBay could save you a lot of money.

“My suggestion is to look for deals on traditionally expensive parts and accessories, like tyres, that would normally set you back hundreds of dollars and can now save you lots. During this end of the financial year sales, the deals on eBay make now the perfect time to consider upgrading your car or your work vehicle".

**20% off millions of items for non eBay Plus Members, an extra 2% for eBay Plus Members. T&Cs apply.

About eBay

eBay Inc. (Nasdaq: EBAY) is a global commerce leader that connects people and builds communities to create economic opportunity for all. Our technology empowers millions of buyers and sellers in more than 190 markets around the world, providing everyone the opportunity to grow and thrive. Founded in 1995 in San Jose, California, eBay is one of the world's largest and most vibrant marketplaces for discovering great value and unique selection. In 2022, eBay enabled nearly $74 billion of gross merchandise volume. For more information about the company and its global portfolio of online brands, visit www.ebayinc.com.