Singles' Day, the Chinese version of the American “Black Friday”, broke all records this year. The Chinese online retailer Alibaba, for example, made a billion dollars in sales in less than 68 seconds. The reason for the fastest sell-out ever: The heavily reduced prices, special offers and a very successful TV advertising campaign. In China, online shopping is already one of the most popular leisure activities. The population in large cities actively looks for bargains and compares prices.
Singles' Day was originally a celebration for singles
It all started several years ago when several single students organized a party for single people. The celebration was intended as a protest against Valentine's Day. The selected date, November 11th, is also symbolic because it only consists of ones. The party took place in a close circle of friends. The occasion wasall Singlespresented with small gifts. The idea was quickly popularized in China and became very popular after just a few years. Then Chinese retail giant Alibaba started offering big discounts for Singles Day. Other online shops also followed his example and the festival has become one of the biggest sales events of the year. Nowadays, Asian “Black Friday” starts with a TV show lasting several hours. Various products are promoted during the show, which is attended by numerous celebrities. In 2019, for example, the American pop singer Taylor Swift opened the show.
Singles' Day in China: The festival has now become a billion-dollar business
No longer a celebration for single people, but rather a shopping madness: Nowadays, Single's Day has become a billion-dollar business in China. Almost all Chinese people are eagerly waiting for the discounts to buy cheap furniture, household items, electronics, cosmetics and even food. Because the special offers and subscriptions that Chinese retailers offer are definitely worth it.
