With Christmas Day falling on a Wednesday this year, shoppers aiming to order gifts online may face unexpected challenges.
Many retailers are setting their final order deadlines on Sunday, December 22, potentially leaving last-minute buyers scrambling. Delivery expert Parcelhero is urging customers to check deadlines early to avoid disappointment.
David Jinks, Head of Consumer Research at Parcelhero, warns that midweek festivities could cause a headache for procrastinators.
“A Wednesday Christmas could be the nightmare before Christmas for anyone assuming they have until the week of Christmas to place their orders,” says Jinks.
Many retailers have already set cautious deadlines, with some cutting off orders earlier than in previous years. For example:
The White Company: Typically accepting orders until December 23, this year it has brought its deadline forward to Friday, December 13 .
HP: The final deadline for laptops is December 19 .
Waterstones: The bookseller has set its cut-off at December 20 .
Family-run and specialist retailers are also adopting earlier deadlines. Shetland Jewellery and Nikki’s Supply Store have both set their final date for December 16, reflecting the logistical limitations smaller businesses often face. Shoppers are encouraged to double-check deadlines on smaller retailers’ websites or contact them directly to avoid disappointment.
