Cartridge People survey shows 75% of parents find back-to-school costs to be a source of stress
With families across the UK preparing for the new academic year, online stationery and office supplies retailer Cartridge People recently commissioned a survey by YouGov, which revealed the financial and emotional burden of back-to-school shopping weighing on UK parents of children aged 18 and below who go to school.
The survey, which gathered responses from parents of school-aged children, shines a light on the pressure some families face during the summer holiday season. According to the findings, 75% of parents said that back-to-school costs are likely to be a source of stress this year, with 70% citing the hassle of back-to-school preparation as a stressor. Parents aged 25-34 were also more likely to feel this way (78%) than parents aged 35+(67%).
As a retailer committed to offering affordable pricing, it’s no surprise that 34% of parents expect to spend £101–£200 per child this year on school uniforms and other supplies. The mean average annual spend is £152 per child, with parents aged 25–34 more likely to spend more on school essentials (£188) compared to parents aged 35 and over (average £144).
“We understand that this time of year can be challenging for families,” said Max Freeman, Commercial Director at Cartridge People. “That’s why we’ve worked hard to make our stationery collection affordable and accessible, so parents can get everything they need without the added pressure.”
The survey also explored how and when parents approach their back-to-school shopping. While 43% of parents said they use a combination of online and in-store shopping, 11% stated they begin purchasing supplies before the end of the final academic term. With the rising costs, parents are becoming more aware of discounts and offers throughout the year, shopping around to avoid the risk of seasonal mark-ups on back-to-school essentials.
In response to these findings, Cartridge People has expanded its product offering with over 15,000 stationery items, providing families with affordable, quality supplies all in one place. The brand’s extensive range aims to make back-to-school shopping as hassle-free and budget-friendly as possible.
