UK. Americans are obsessed with British history, Japanese visitors love British food and Canadian holiday-makers adore stocking up on Brit-themed clothing. That is according to new research into the shopping habits of international tourists visiting the UK, compiled by souvenir and gift retailer Glorious Britain, which has nine Alpha-operated stores.
Tourists from the US are the biggest consumers of British souvenirs, accounting for almost half of all the chain’s in-store sales – nearly four times as much as the next biggest fans, the Japanese, who make up around 12% of sales. Coming up close behind are Canadian visitors, closely followed by tourists from South Korea and Hong Kong.
The top ten spenders by nationality are as follows:
1. Americans
2. Japanese
3. Canadians
4. South Koreans
5. Hong Kong
6. Singaporeans
7. Malaysians
8. United Arab Emirates
9. Swedes
10. Thais
The type of souvenir tourists favour varies greatly from country to country, as Glorious Britain spokesperson Ben Deller explained: “Americans are fascinated by Britain’s long and chequered history and they tend to favour souvenirs which have a historical element. Kings and queens, knights and battles, castles and dungeons – it’s all far removed from the history of their own country and continues to hold a real attraction.”
The Japanese, on the other hand, are huge fans of British food – traditional English teas, shortbreads and jams are at the top of their shopping list.
Canadians prefer to wear their holiday mementos, with 16% snapping up Brit-branded T-shirts, caps and other clothing. T-shirts are among the best-selling items at the nine stores.
About Glorious Britain
Glorious Britain has nine stores, located in London Heathrow (all terminals), London Gatwick (North Terminal) and Stansted airports. A domestic market shop is based in Windsor, Berkshire, near the Queen’s residence at Windsor Castle. Glorious Britain’s position as one of the UK’s most successful souvenir retailers was confirmed in May, when it swept the board at The Greats retailer awards. The brand walked away with the award for Best Souvenir Retailer and the highest accolade, Gift Retailer of the Year. Visit www.gloriousbritain.co.uk
MORE STORIES ON GLORIOUS BRITAIN
The British traveller misses his food more than his pet: Glorious Britain survey – 30/08/05
Alpha’s Glorious Britain concept sweeps the board at retailer awards – 20/05/05
Glorious Britain makes debut in London Heathrow airport terminal two – EXCLUSIVE – 26/07/03
