Yocuda research: many Brits ready to ditch paper receipts for eco-friendly and convenient digital solutions

Research released by Yocuda shows that 77% of shoppers in the UK would be more likely to switch to digital receipts if they knew how many trees were cut down to produce the paper versions (200,000 trees are cut down annually just for receipts in the UK).

1,015 consumers in the UK and 1,013 in France were surveyed for this.

87% of 18-25-year-olds would opt for digital receipts in an effort to reduce the environmental impact of paper ones.

Yocuda’s data reveals that 96% of shoppers believe using digital receipts will contribute to reducing environmental harm. 85% expect a reduction in paper receipts in the next five years whilst only 6% think it will stay the same. In fact, 57% of UK consumers expressed a desire for more retailers to offer digital receipts instead of paper ones.

Sustainability policies are now also key to shoppers, with nearly 69% saying a retailer’s sustainability policy influences their decision to shop with them, with this figure jumping to 85% for the younger generation (18-25).

Edward Drax, CEO at Yocuda, says: “The data makes it clear - UK shoppers are ready to ditch paper receipts in favour of a digital solution that’s better for both the environment and their own convenience. What was once seen as a small, mundane part of the shopping experience - receiving a paper receipt - is now being scrutinised for its environmental impact and inefficiency.”

“With 200,000 trees cut down each year to produce paper receipts in the UK alone, it’s no wonder that so many shoppers, particularly from the younger generations, are calling for change. Younger generations, having grown up in an era of climate consciousness, are setting the standard for what they expect from retailers.”

“Their shopping habits are increasingly aligned with their values, and they want to see businesses they support taking actionable steps to reduce environmental harm.”

Digital receipts are also proving to be a practical solution for today’s consumers.

With 75% of shoppers admitting to having thrown away a paper receipt they intended to keep and 66% admitting to losing a paper receipt they needed for a return or exchange, the frustrations of managing physical copies are clear. Gen Z shoppers are the worst offenders, with three in four admitting they regularly misplace paper receipts.

72% of shoppers requested a digital receipt when it was offered. 60% find it wasteful for companies to print receipts automatically.

UK consumers are increasingly on the lookout for a more personalised touch from retailers, with 64% expecting personalised offers based on their shopping history - a 10% increase from 2023 data.

Drax adds: “It’s more than just being eco-friendly. The convenience factor cannot be understated. Consumers are tired of the hassle that comes with managing paper receipts - whether it’s losing them, storing them, or rummaging through bags to find them for returns, warranty or tax purposes.”

“Digital receipts offer a hassle free solution that aligns with the fast paced, tech driven lives of modern shoppers. It also provides retailers with an unparalleled way of identifying customers, their behaviours and wants in store and in turn the ideal opportunity to engage post-purchase with personalised content.”

“This gives retailers a golden opportunity to build stronger relationships with their customers and drive customer loyalty.”

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Green retail is a key focus area for the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards, which is now open for entries.

The awards, sponsored by CADS, 3D Cloud, Brightpearl by Sage’s Lightning 50, and Retail Technology Show 2025, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Key 2024 dates

Friday, 25th October: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 29th October: 2024 shortlist revealed

30th October-6th November: Judging days

Thursday, 21st November: Winners announced at the 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards ceremony, to be held at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London.