Key Dates for Retail Online – 1st Quarter

We’ve put together a handy guide for key retail dates for eCommerce businesses in 2022. There are so many, here are some of the highlights.

1st February – Chinese New Year 

2022 is the Year of the Tiger and this symbol of strength brings a strong opportunity to reach the Chinese market. Chinese New Year is a major retail event, with shoppers in Asia buying gifts for relatives as well as new clothes for the event.

14th February – Valentine’s Day 

As well as the traditional, seasonal products of flowers, jewellery, cards and chocolates, Valentine’s Day can be a chance to promote more unusual gifts and is a very busy day for logistics companies all over the world.

3rd March – World Book Day 

A major day for the publishing industry, this is also something of a tricky date for parents who find themselves expected to put together a World Book Day outfit for their children at the last minute. Another hugely busy day for logistics.

8th March – International Women’s Day 

A date that’s growing in retail significance, International Women’s Day is an opportunity for firms to highlight the gender equality work they’re doing. It’s also a chance to run a charitable campaign and support organisations that champion women’s rights.

Whether you’re a small shop selling hand-made accessories or an online retailer stocking leading brand, International Women’s Day provides the perfect opportunity to promote your business and demonstrate your support for women.

27th March – Mother’s Day 

Although Mother’s Day spending dropped last year during lockdown it was still in the millions.

Sales of flowers, perfume, jewellery, chocolates and pampering treats are very popular as you’d expect.  

Easter Sunday 

Easter is a huge retail event, with UK shoppers spending an estimated £11.23 billion in 2021. From chocolate eggs and bunnies to spring fashion pieces, there’s plenty of opportunity for retailers to make the most of this holiday weekend.

1st April – Ramadan 

A Muslim festival, Ramadan is a month-long period of fasting during daylight hours, after which Muslims come together in the evening to break their fast with a meal called Iftar. Ramadan is a great opportunity for retailers selling food and drink products, as these are traditionally eaten during Iftar.

Good Friday 

DIY is a popular bank holiday pursuit so the long Easter Weekend can be a good chance to increase your retail sales in home furnishings and DIY products and tools.

Easter Monday  

As well as being a day for celebrating all things chocolate, this is also an opportunity to sell outdoor and garden products. With the weather expected to be warm in, sales of barbecues and outdoor furniture are likely to be on the up.

Easter Sunday 

In 2020 we spent £153 million on Easter eggs and £37 million on hot cross buns, showing what a major retail event Easter is. Run special holiday campaigns if you sell Easter food, gifts or decorations to cash in on the event.  

Photo by Roberto Cortese on Unsplash