There’s no doubt that 2020 reshaped the retail landscape both on and offline. Based on the experiences of the past year, it’s clear that online retail has firmly staked its claim.

So, we’ve put together the ultimate 2021 e-commerce calendar with every important shopping date you’ll need to maximise return on investment this year.

Valentine’s Day – February 14^th

Everyone knows Valentine’s Day is a big deal for the world of retail. In 2020 we saw an eight percent year on year (YoY) increase, proving this shopping trend is here to stay! Traditionally last-minute shoppers have headed to bricks and mortar stores to pick up a box of chocolates and a bunch of flowers to signal their intent. However, with the pandemic still looming, we expect to see even more orders online this year. Think beyond your standard gifts this season and get creative, promoting everything from fun fashion to quirky homeware to share some love this Valentines.

Easter Sunday – April 4^th

Easter is the ultimate time for sweet treats, and for those wanting to avoid the battle of the Easter eggs in the supermarkets, online shopping is the way to go this year. But don’t stop at chocolate, Easter is the perfect opportunity to promote any craft products that would be perfect for Easter bonnets and egg decoration!

Summer holidays – July 20^th

The long-awaited start of summer! Fast forward to July and hopefully life may have returned to some level of normality, with BBQ evenings and beach trips back in full swing. This means a surge in sales across various categories so be prepared – clothing, garden furniture, toys and games will all be in high demand for a summer of fun. And don’t forget the annual back-to-school shop for the beginning of September.

Halloween – October 31^st

Halloween e-commerce is becoming bigger and better every year, with Kelkoo Group data showing a seven percent YoY growth in 2020, the haunting continues. So, in 2021, it’s time to step up your spooky strategies! Even if your online store doesn’t directly link to the day, it’s still worth adding some Halloween-themed promotions to your site. For some extra inspiration, why not think about a holiday pumpkin carving contest across your social media channels to raise brand awareness and audience engagement this season?

Diwali – November 4th

Diwali, India’s most significant holiday, is a major shopping season for Indian households around the globe as people prepare to splash out on presents, clothes and extravagant lights. Online categories including jewellery, luxury goods and clothing all spike in preparation for Diwali. So, why not launch an online Diwali gift guide to promote on your social channels to bring in some more sales this season?

Black Friday – 26^th November

Black Friday is without a doubt the e-commerce event of the year. We always recommend that our merchants plan as far ahead as possible to ensure things run smoothly over the weekend. The last thing you need on the day is technical difficulties on your site – be sure to perform regular website tests in the build up to the big day!

Black Friday – 26^th November

Even with the sales appearing to start earlier and earlier each year, Boxing Day is always going to be a key winter sale date. Although shoppers may be tightening their purse strings after another year dominated by the pandemic and Christmas, there will always be those who cannot resist the temptations of a Boxing Day sale. Make the most of this and consider updating your websites graphics and offer new products, lines and promotions to gain some extra revenue to get ahead of the January slump.

Still need some extra help with your e-commerce campaigns? Find out more on our website or get in touch with our team today to explore how our solutions could be the perfect gift for your business this year.

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