CARLISLE, Pa. – Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to holiday traditions, but there are a few that people have some strong opinions about. GIANT and MARTIN’S recently asked customers in a new survey to help settle the score on a few popular holiday debates including gift cards, fruitcake, and eggnog.
“We thought this would be a fun twist on those family friendly debates that come up during this time of year,” said John MacDonald, chief marketing officer, The GIANT Company. “No matter what your choice may be when it comes to gift cards, fruitcake or eggnog, GIANT and MARTIN’S have plenty of offerings and new ideas to make spirits bright – both in-store and online - to help our customers alleviate holiday pressures and save throughout the festive season.”
In its annual holiday survey, the National Retail Federation (NRF) reports that consumers plan to spend approximately $890 per person on average this year on holiday gifts, food, decorations and other seasonal items. Grocery stores account for 46% of holiday shopping destinations this year.
Gift cards: To give or not to give?
According to the NRF, gifts cards are the top gift consumers would like to receive. GIANT and MARTIN’S customers also agree with 96% saying they would love to receive a gift card this holiday season and 92% of survey participants opting to give this gift.
More than 300 brands of gift cards spanning entertainment, restaurants, favorite stores, and experience experiences; and Visa, American Express and Mastercard gift cards are also available in-store. In December, customers can earn additional CHOICE points through multiplier offers when they purchase select gift cards like Macy’s, L.L.Bean, Barnes and Noble, Fandango, and more.
Fruitcake: Favorite or forgettable?
Fruitcake has been a classic holiday dessert for generations, but does it still ring true for today’s shoppers? The GIANT and MARTIN’S survey found is does not, with 68% of respondents voicing their dislike for fruitcake. But don’t worry, GIANT and MARTIN’S stores do carry fruitcake for those who choose to carry on this indulgent tradition.
So, instead maybe choose a charcuterie board, cookies or savory treats to gift co-workers this year? Survey participants shared they prefer sugar cookies (66%) over gingerbread (34%), pumpkin pie (64%) takes the lead over pecan pie (36%) and hot cocoa (78%) beat apple cider (22%).
Eggnog: Yes or egg-no?
The final survey question posed what can often be polarizing among families – eggnog or egg-no? Eggnog split the survey respondents with 59% loving it and 41% not so much.
For fans of this holiday beverage, GIANT and MARTIN’S offers 12 varieties in its stores from the traditional to Nature’s Promise® Organic and plant-based offerings; there are also many local eggnogs available. Don’t forget a twist on the classic with Turkey Hill Egg Nog ice cream and Holiday Nog cookies from Pepperidge Farm. Or put a new spin on eggnog by trying make ahead pancakes, cheesecake, and martinis. See the online Savory Recipe Center for full recipes and more ideas.
The GIANT and MARTIN’S survey was conducted online from Dec. 8 – 11, 2025. Respondents included adults, ages 18 and older, in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virgina, and West Virginia.
Holiday Hours
GIANT and MARTIN’S 2025 holiday hours will be as follows:
Christmas Eve (Wednesday, Dec. 24) - Stores open until 6 p.m. and pharmacies open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Christmas Day (Thursday, Dec. 25) - Stores and pharmacies will be closed
New Year’s Eve (Wednesday, Dec. 31) - Stores open until 8 p.m. and pharmacies open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
New Year’s Day (Thursday, Jan. 1) - Stores open regular hours; pharmacies will be closed
For complete details on The GIANT Company’s holiday promotions and offerings, visit giantfoodstores.com or martinsfoods.com.
