A poll of 2,000 adults found 46 per cent think small surprises are more effective than grand gestures such as expensive dinners or an overnight stay in a swanky hotel.
Other things that put a smile on people’s faces include finding a treat left on your desk at work and being given a hot drink with your favourite biscuit served on the side.
It also emerged 34 per cent prefer to give rather than receive, as it significantly boosts their mood (34 per cent) and puts a “spring in their step” for the rest of the day (25 per cent).
While 26 per cent said giving a surprise makes them happier than if they were to enjoy a solo pamper session.
The research was commissioned by French biscuit brand, LU, to highlight its new Le Petit Ganache biscuit.
TV presenter Fred Sirieix, who is working with the brand to surprise the public at a pop-up in Soho, said: “For me, the best part of surprising someone is seeing the love register on their face when they realise someone they appreciate has been thinking of them.
“Today, we’re helping people feel and taste the love by surprising them with a French bakery in the middle of London.”
The study also found 28 per cent of adults like to surprise loved ones with a new experience, while a fifth get pleasure from treating those close to them with a new activity.
For the foodies among us, 18 per cent get satisfaction from spoiling them with an unexpected biscuit when making them a hot drink.
When receiving a surprise, 48 per cent feel appreciated, 36 per cent get comfort from knowing they are in someone’s thoughts and 43 per cent feel loved.
While four in 10 feel cared for and 23 per cent enjoy the feeling of being supported, according to the poll carried out via OnePoll.
Charlotte Parkes, at LU, said: “Our research has shown that we all love to receive a surprise, so we’re delighted to surprise people with our chocolatey filled biscuit.
"Bringing a French pâtisserie to the nation’s capital gives us a chance to treat people to an unexpected experience whilst they taste the love baked into our biscuits."
LU’s pop-up is located at NoHo Showrooms, 67 Great Titchfield Street, London and will be open between 11 am and 6:30 pm on Wednesday 5th April only.
Top 5 things surprising a friend is better than:
- Going for a walk
- Finishing all your household chores
- A long soak in the bath
- Cooking your favourite meal
- Watching your favourite TV show
