Love in Transit: How the Logistics Industry Keeps Valentine’s Day Running

New research from Prologis UK, a sponsor of the Generation Logistics campaign, reveals that over a quarter of Brits (77%) find it easier to express their love because of online shopping, and that logistics plays a crucial role in making gift-giving more convenient than ever.

Who’s Feeling the Love?

Young romantics are leading the charge, with a huge 93% of 18-24 year olds saying online shopping has changed how they send gifts. But not everyone is as eager to participate – over 55s are far less enchanted, with 58% skipping the Valentine’s Day traditions altogether.

There’s also a regional divide in gift-giving habits, as people in the North are the least likely to receive Valentine’s gifts (38% get nothing), while urbanites are more likely to indulge in perfume, jewellery and dinner dates.

What’s in the Gift Box? Traditional vs Atypical Valentine’s Gifts

Classic Valentine’s Day presents remain strong:

• Chocolates & sweets (30%) – The go-to romantic treat.
• Cards (29%) – Because nothing beats a heartfelt message.
• Flowers (27%) – Some gestures never go out of style.

Nevertheless, not everyone is showered with traditional gifts. Over a third of those surveyed (35%) don’t receive any classic Valentine’s presents at all. Instead, some get a little more creative!

Here are just a few of the weirdly wonderful gifts Brits have received:

1. A mankini (Male, 39)
2. Heart-print toilet paper (Female, 27)
3. A pogo stick (Male, 24)
4. Flour, self-raising flour and cornflour (Female, 52)
5. Belly button cleaner (Female, 20)

Meanwhile, men tend to receive practical gifts like clothes, whereas women are more likely to be taken on romantic experiences such as dinner dates.

How Logistics Makes Valentine’s Day Happen

Behind every heartfelt gesture and quirky surprise is a well-oiled logistics machine. From warehouses storing chocolates and flowers, to drivers delivering last-minute gifts, logistics professionals make certain that love arrives on time. The rise of next-day delivery has completely transformed the way people shop for Valentine’s Day, with 1 in 6 Brits (16%) admitting that online shopping encourages them to send more spontaneous gifts.

So, whether you’re planning a special romantic surprise or just spoiling yourself, you have logistics to thank for making it happen.

Want to Be Part of the Team That Delivers Love?

At Generation Logistics, we’re passionate about showcasing the exciting career paths available in logistics. If you’re interested in a career that keeps the world moving, on Valentine’s Day and beyond, there’s a place for you in logistics.

Discover what role suits you best with the Find Your Future quiz and be part of an industry that delivers more than just gifts.