More Christmas hampers could be purchased via mobile phones this year, as new research has suggested one in three young adults will purchase goods using the technology.

A study by UTalkMarketing and Toluna found that 32 per cent of those aged between 18 and 34 will buy goods on their handsets, while 14 per cent of people from 35 to 54 plan to do the same.

Among the over-55s, nine per cent of consumers will buy goods for loved ones via their mobile phone.

Melanie McKinney, UTalkMarketing's publisher, said that retailers must embrace shoppers' changing habits.

"The fact that a third of young adults are planning to buy their Christmas gifts via their mobile device is proof that the year of mobile commerce is finally upon us," she added.

According to research by Kanter Media, 74 per cent of consumers plan to research online before spending on Christmas presents this year.