Moonpig Data Shows Brits Send 'I Love You' Card Every 15 Seconds
In a heartwarming revelation from the UK's largest online card retailer, Moonpig, analysis of messages in greetings cards over the past 12 months has uncovered that a card containing the phrase 'I love you' is dispatched every 15 seconds. This translates to more than two million cards annually where Brits openly express their affection through these three simple words.
Daily Expressions of Love Beyond Valentine's Day
While Valentine's Day remains a peak period, accounting for nearly half of all card sales in February, the data highlights that love is not confined to a single date. Brits are sharing their feelings consistently throughout the year, demonstrating a daily commitment to emotional connection. Interestingly, despite the availability of AI tools for crafting unique cards, 95% of Valentine's notes are personally handwritten, indicating a strong preference for authentic, heartfelt communication.
Proposals and Apologies Through the Post
The study also sheds light on romantic gestures, with an average of 10,000 smitten Brits annually using cards to propose marriage. Phrases like 'be my wife' and 'be my husband' are common, and one in 20 proposals directly asks 'Will you marry me?'. On the flip side, the 16th of February emerges as the busiest day for 'I'm sorry' card sales, as late senders rush to make amends post-Valentine's celebrations.
Gifts and Pet-Inspired Cards Complement Messages
Beyond words, gifts play a significant role in expressing love, with chocolate being the top choice. It is included in one out of every 10 card orders, leading to over 400 tonnes of chocolate being sent through the British postal system each year—equivalent to the weight of 67 African elephants. Additionally, pet owners show their affection uniquely, with dogs 'sending' 10 times more cards to their owners than cats, highlighting the bond between humans and their furry companions.
Insights from Moonpig's Leadership
Kristof Fahy from Moonpig commented on the findings, stating, "While Valentine's Day is a busy one for us as a business, we realise how privileged we are every single day of the year as we help people say 'I love you' through the post." He added, "Our customers' creations, uploads, and messages paint a really beautiful picture of how the British feel brave enough, through cards, to express their affection—whether that be to their partner or spouse, teacher, mentor, or the lady who does their nails."
Logistical Trends and Consumer Behavior
The majority of customers plan ahead, pre-ordering cards in time for Valentine's Day. However, a tardy 6% tend to leave it to the last minute, waiting until after midday on the 13th to place their orders. This underscores the enduring appeal of physical tokens of affection, which, as Fahy notes, "still carry the same weight as ever" in an increasingly digital world.
