As the holiday season kicks into high gear, savvy shoppers and retailers alike gear up for Free Shipping Day, celebrated annually on December 14. This special shopping holiday offers a win-win for everyone—customers can save on shipping costs, and businesses can boost their end-of-year sales. Let’s dive into the history, reasons for its popularity, and how you can make the most of this day.
History
Free Shipping Day was created in 2008 by Luke and Maisie Knowles, two online marketers who recognized a gap in the holiday shopping season. They wanted to provide a solution for last-minute shoppers who often missed online sales during Black Friday or Cyber Monday but still needed gifts delivered in time for Christmas.
The inaugural Free Shipping Day saw 250 retailers participate, offering free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve. The event became an instant hit, driven by the growing popularity of e-commerce and consumers’ desire for convenience during the hectic holiday season.
Over the years, the day has evolved into a significant shopping event, often rivaling Black Friday and Cyber Monday in terms of sales volume. Today, thousands of retailers across the globe participate, including small businesses and big brands alike.
Free Shipping Day has also influenced consumer behavior by setting a standard for free shipping promotions throughout the year, making it a win for both businesses and shoppers. It’s a testament to how a simple, consumer-centric idea can revolutionize the retail landscape.
How To Celebrate
1. Create a Shopping List
Start by listing the items you need for the holidays—gifts for loved ones, home décor, or even essentials you’ve been eyeing. Having a list ensures you stay focused and don’t overspend.
2. Research Participating Retailers
Visit the Free Shipping Day official website or browse online to find participating retailers. Popular stores like Amazon, Walmart, and Macy’s often take part, along with smaller businesses offering unique products.
3. Shop Early
Deals and inventory can run out fast! Log on early to snag the best discounts and guarantee delivery by Christmas.
4. Support Local and Small Businesses
This is a great chance to shop from small or local retailers who participate in Free Shipping Day. Many of them offer handcrafted, personalized, or unique products perfect for gifts.
5. Share the Deals
Tell friends and family about Free Shipping Day deals you find. You can share links via social media or group chats to spread the holiday cheer.
Amazing Facts
1.Free Shipping Day It Was Created in 2008
Luke Knowles, an entrepreneur, introduced Free Shipping Day as a way to encourage last-minute holiday shopping. The event was designed to offer guaranteed delivery by Christmas, easing the stress of last-minute gift-giving.
2. Huge Success From the Start
The inaugural Free Shipping Day in 2008 saw over $764 million in online sales. Its immediate popularity set the stage for it to become an annual tradition.
3. Thousands of Retailers Participate
Over 1,000 retailers, including big names like Amazon, Target, and Best Buy, join the event each year. It also includes many small and medium-sized businesses.
4. Guaranteed Christmas Delivery
Unlike many other holiday sales, Free Shipping Day ensures that all orders placed during the event will arrive by December 25. This makes it especially appealing to last-minute shoppers.
5. No Membership Required
While services like Amazon Prime offer free shipping year-round, Free Shipping Day is unique in that it’s available to everyone, with no subscriptions or memberships required.
6. It Boosts Holiday Sales
Free Shipping Day has become a key part of retailers’ holiday marketing strategies. It helps reduce cart abandonment, as customers are more likely to complete their purchases when shipping fees are waived.
Faq's
1. What is Free Shipping Day?
Free Shipping Day is an annual shopping event where online retailers offer free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Christmas. It falls on December 14 and is perfect for last-minute holiday shoppers.
2. Who Started Free Shipping Day?
The event was created by entrepreneur Luke Knowles in 2008 to encourage online shopping and eliminate shipping fees during the holiday season.
3. Is Free Shipping Day Available Internationally?
Yes! Although it started in the U.S., many international retailers now participate, offering deals and guaranteed delivery by local holiday deadlines.
4. Are Discounts Offered Along with Free Shipping?
Many retailers combine free shipping with additional discounts, such as percentage-off deals, flash sales, or loyalty rewards, making it a lucrative shopping day for customers.
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