Top Profitable Holidays to Boost Print on Demand Business in 2024

Anna Navolokova, Marketing Manager in Multi-Programming Solutions  •  16 min read

It’s never too early to start preparing for the holiday season if you are running an e-commerce business. 

The approaching holidays increase the number of orders as well as the average order sizes. Holiday-themed products and various printed items become incredibly popular during the festive seasons, which makes holiday print on demand a sought-after service. However, to maximize your gains from these occasions you should be properly prepared.

The good news is that a print on demand fulfillment company can benefit practically from any holiday, whether it is an International Espresso Day or Christmas. However, to cut through the fierce competition, you should consider not only the most popular dates but also the less renowned ones, which can nevertheless arouse inspiration and fun.

Table of Contents

Selling Holidays Statistics

Most Profitable Holidays Print on Demand Businesses Can Benefit From

The importance of seasonal products for POD

Real Holiday Shopping Statistics

Snapshot of Holiday Sales Predictions 2024

Top 5 Heartwarming Holiday Marketing Campaign Examples

Wrapping up

Selling Holidays Statistics

Before we proceed to discuss the holidays important for print on demand business growth, let us discover some statistics as the evidence of tremendous selling opportunities offered by festive days.

During 2019-2020, e-commerce, in general, was facing a steady increase. Although many families decided to cut their expenses, the holiday shopping growth continues to take place. 

• The average daily revenue in e-commerce grows by 13% during a holiday season in the U.S., while the growth of overall online retail constitutes only 4%;
• Throughout the peak season, daily e-commerce sales make more than $1 billion. 
• During the 29 days a year, daily sales exceed the impressive mark of $2 billion.
• Cyber Monday is considered the largest online shopping day in America, with $10.8 billion spent in one day! Cyber Week sales hit $34.4 billion in 2020 (a 20.7% increase compared to 2019)
• For the Labor Day, online shoppers spent $2.6 billion in 2020, which equals a 12% increase. 

Obviously, holidays are rewarding to e-commerce. Printed products fall under high demand during the peak seasons, and many organizations request even same day print on demand. Therefore, you should carefully plan your marketing efforts and prepare top selling print on demand products to boost your business.

Top Strategies to Successfully Sell your Print on Demand Merchandize Online

Most Profitable Holidays Print on Demand Businesses Can Benefit from

Most popular holidays in the USA create a seasonal opportunity for POD entrepreneurs to increase the demand for their products and generate higher sales during the specific time of the year. Online stores discover the hidden potential of producing and selling customized stuff tailored to customers’ needs and interests. 

Even if you have already defined your niche in print on demand, unique events or activities associated with each season allow you to diversify the assortment of the digital store, making it more personal to each individual. For example, during the spring, you may face increased demand for Easter-themed goods (rabbits, eggs, and cake prints), and Mother’s or Father’s Day special offerings. In the summer POD businesses can focus on patriotic-themed items devoted to Independence Day or outdoor activity gear and beach assortment. Fall presents should be prepared one to two months ahead and commonly are related to Back-to-School, Halloween, and Thanksgiving topics. Winter is the time when consumers search for perfect presents on Christmas, New Year, and Valentine’s Day.

How to select the most appropriate holidays? Combine traditional dates with a blend of fun, inspirational, socially focused, or niche events and see which of them bring better fruits.

Winter holidays

December 13: Green Monday

The day is celebrated on the second Monday of December and is one of the most popular retail shopping days.

• Whom to address: Gift shoppers and retailers.
• Why it suits: The approaching Christmas creates a feeling of urgency for many customers, which translates into increased online sales.

December 24-25: Christmas

Christmas is one of the most significant religious and cultural holidays for billions of people worldwide.

• Whom to address: Christians all over the world.
• Why it suits: The holiday is being continually commercialized; however, you can still bring the warmth of family-focused ideas with your prints and marketing campaigns.

December 26: Boxing Day

Many believe that the Boxing Day traditions date back to medieval times. It originated as a day to provide gifts to the poor. 

• Whom to address: People in the countries historically linked with the UK. 
• Why it suits: Boxing Day is known as a shopping holiday and the time to share gifts with family and friends. A nice occasion to develop sweet and kind designs. 

December 31 – January 1: New Year’s Eve and Day

This first day is the day for social gatherings and massive celebrations. Businesses conduct special promotions beforehand; people prepare gifts for their families and friends.

• Whom to address: People who follow the Gregorian calendar. 
• Why it suits: Plenty of opportunities to offer holiday-themed products because of the sky-rocketing demand.

January 2: Science Fiction Day

This date celebrates the most notable science fiction works including movies, books, comics, and games.

• Whom to address: All Sci-Fi genre fans, publishing houses, businesses connected with TV and other media.  
• Why it suits: Another opportunity to add some fun to the relations with your audience and explain how print on demand boosts e-commerce sales. Leverage interactive promos and offer holiday-themed printed items.

February 7: Super Bowl Sunday

The culmination of a National Football League season. The sporting event of the year for numerous NFL fans. 

• Whom to address: NFL fans, sports-related businesses. 
• Why it suits: A host of opportunities to play around with the football theme.

February 14: St. Valentine’s Day

A celebration of romance and love. 

• Whom to address: People all over the world 
• Why it suits: A chance to be romantically creative and develop ideas for a memorable customer experience.

Spring holidays

March 8: International Women’s Day

The day marks women’s equality and recognizes their contributions to the world.

• Whom to address: Socially concerned businesses and individuals 
• Why it suits: The demand for a variety of themed gifts is high for the holiday

March 14: Mother’s Day

In some countries, the day is celebrated in May, in others, such as the UK, – on March 14. 

• Whom to address: All loving children regardless of age.
• Why it suits: “Thank you” cards, accessories, and other items become popular gifts.

March 17: St. Patrick’s Day

A traditional Irish holiday that is usually marked with big parades and festivals. When do print on demand sell the most for St. Patrick’s Day? Well beforehand, since the day is passionately celebrated by those with Irish heritage. Your marketing efforts should start at least a month before the holiday.

• Whom to address: People of Irish descent.
• Why it suits: Only in the U.S. millions of people claim to have Irish heritage; hence the vast selling opportunities for the day.

March 31: Easter

A Christian religious holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The exact day varies, although it usually falls into the first half of April.

• Whom to address: Christians all over the world.
• Why it suits: Many businesses offer special deals for the day, as the Holiday involves lots of attributes, décor, apparel, and more.

April 22: Earth Day

• Whom to address: Environmentally concerned businesses and individuals.
• Why it suits: Products and symbols that support the movement become popular for this occasion. 

May 31: National Smile Day

• Whom to address: Everyone who can smile.
• Why it suits: This day, every item can become embellished with a smile – with your help!

Summer holidays

June 13: International Children’s Day

The day is dedicated to the protection of children’s rights and the prevention of child labor use.

• Whom to address: No limits.
• Why it suits: A variety of options to support the holiday’s message with your print ideas.

July 4: The U.S. Independence Day

• Whom to address: Americans.
• Why it suits: Many people and businesses would seek to implement US-themed designs for the day.

July 30: International Day of Friendship

Originated by the UN, the day celebrates safety, harmony, and friendship, as opposed to everyday challenges and struggles.

• Whom to address: Friends all over the world.
• Why it suits: Many choose to share their kindness and warmth through personalized themed gifts.

August 26: International Dog Day

• Whom to address: Everyone who loves dogs, businesses that sell dog food and accessories.
• Why it suits: With millions of dog lovers all over the world, themed items related to men’s best friends will be in demand. 

 Autumn holidays

September 6: National Labor Day

A federal holiday in the U.S., the day marks the achievements of American workers.

• Whom to address: Mostly Americans and Canadians.
• Why it suits: Large public celebrations imply a host of holiday-themed merchandise and accessories.

September 18 – October 3: Oktoberfest

The largest beer and folk festival in the world. It is traditionally held in Germany but has spread to other countries as well. 

• Whom to address: All fans of Oktoberfest, restaurants, beer producers.
• Why it suits: Prepare beer-themed designs and await orders for top selling print on demand products.

October 31: Halloween

The holiday takes its roots in an ancient Celtic festival. However, today it’s a funny, mystically flavored celebration.

• Whom to address: Western countries’ inhabitants.
• Why it suits: Blend all your creativity and fun with the spooky stories to develop unique designs that would make your print on demand boost e-commerce sales for your clients.

November 23: National Espresso Day

• Whom to address: Coffee fans and those in coffee-related business
• Why it suits: Who would refuse from holiday-themed coffee merchandise or accessories? 

November 25: Thanksgiving

Originating as a harvest holiday, today, Thanksgiving is celebrated with families and friends to say thanks for the food they have.

• Whom to address: Americans and those related to American culture.
• Why it suits: When it’s time to say thank you to families and customers, it’s also the time for heartwarming gifts with meaningful prints.

November 29: Black Friday

A big shopping day known for huge discounts and crazy deals.

• Whom to address: Enthusiastic shoppers, retailers.
• Why it suits: Think how you can creatively join and benefit from the shopping madness.

December 2: Cyber Monday

The largest online shopping holiday.

• Whom to address: E-commerce businesses.
• Why it suits: Endless opportunities for holiday-themed items.

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The importance of seasonal products for POD

Holiday trends bring higher customer spending. By optimizing your print on demand store according to the seasonal demand, you may increase the overall performance and generate more revenue. Clients are more likely to purchase stuff relevant to the upcoming event they will celebrate. So, if you want to increase sales, don’t miss such a lucrative opportunity.

POD entrepreneurs receive an excellent chance to diversify their product range by adding seasonal items to online listings. This expansion may help businesses to reach new markets, attract more customers, and build loyalty.

Seasonal opportunities also contribute to the repeat business. If you provide high-quality service and get positive reviews from happy clients, they are more likely to return the next holiday for a similar gift or become your regular buyer.

Limited-time sales become a driving force for users to purchase exclusive stuff. Such a sense of urgency and rarity increases the demand and gains more sales.

Moreover, by capitalizing on holiday trends, your POD store receives a competitive advantage over rivals. From hundreds of similar mugs, t-shirts, or bags, consumers will choose fresh ideas, appealing designs, and related topics.

Real Holiday Shopping Statistics

Holiday Eve is a perfect time for optimizing your POD store. For most experienced entrepreneurs, store preparation become a tradition that helps their businesses increase performance indicators and improve customers’ satisfaction. Let’s dive into the key shopping stats that will allow you to organize well-thought sales:

• The main factors that influence online purchases include print on demand product prices (50%), discounts (22%), free delivery (13%), fast shipping (7%), buy online and pick up in-store (4%), and convenient returning policy (4%).
• Buyers find inspiration for holiday gifts in social media. Around 56% of Gen Z customers search for fresh ideas in TikTok, while 38% of Boomers check out propositions on Facebook.
• On average, 46% of users prefer the Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) option while making purchases online on the most profitable holidays.
• Modern customers prioritize small spending. 72% of respondents state they spend under $200 for holiday gifts and essentials. And only 10% are ready to buy presents reaching $1000 in total.
• Consumers are still shopping in brick-and-mortar stores, but e-commerce holiday retail in the US grew by 11% in 2023. That’s why having an omnichannel approach and developing in-person and digital sales is crucial for POD entrepreneurs' seamless journey. 
• Top trending POD products for the biggest shopping holidays in 2024 are hoodies, cotton t-shirts, sportswear, bottles, phone cases, wall art, bags, pet accessories, and hats.
• Customers who make last-minute purchases visit land-based stores (59%), buy physical (39%) or virtual gift cards (24%), place online orders even if it would become a late present (21%), or order supplies for hand-made (15%).
• Main sales drivers are paid search (29%), direct website visits (19%), organic search (17%), affiliate ads (16%) and e-mail notifications (15%).

Understanding the key takeaways, like customers’ behavior, the most efficient marketing channels, and trendy print on demand product ideas, can make all the difference in boosting your holiday business.

Snapshot of Holiday Sales Predictions 2024

With the constantly evolving e-commerce landscape and rapidly changing market demands, it’s vital to learn what the 2024 seasonal digital store should focus on. Here are the top trends and predictions to be aware of to avoid a potentially lost sale and organize the best day for holiday shopping.

Personalized experience

This year customers will appreciate a more individual approach to online purchases. That’s why it may be pivotal for e-commerce entrepreneurs to apply AI-powered tools and data analytics to better understand clients’ preferences and expectations. Brands that provide tailored recommendations will receive a competitive advantage among rivals’ stores. Personalization can directly impact decision–making and increase sales in your e-commerce shop on the most profitable holidays and on a regular basis.

Higher prices and increased customers’ expectations

Increased costs associated with inflation will cause higher prices for holiday products. Customers, in turn, are ready to pay more. But they also expect a premium quality and overall shopping experience, including customer service, return policy, delivery, and website usability during the best shopping holidays.

Focus on sustainability

In 2024, consumers will prioritize eco-friendliness when making online purchases on the largest sale days. Enterprises that utilize sustainable practices from sourcing and production to packing and shipping will resonate with environmentally conscious buyers.

Efficient fulfillment and delivery

Regardless of the holiday rush, consumers will appreciate quick and hassle-free order fulfillment and shipping. Same-day delivery is still in demand. So retailers should wisely organize their stock (or partner with a reliable dropshipper) to streamline logistics and avoid delays.

Exclusive promotions

When purchasing gifts during the most profitable holidays for POD brands customers search for discounts, sales, and extra value that your service can offer. And here, digital stores that make bundled deals and organize loyalty programs or rewards will stand out. Building a reputation of a company that ensures excellent customer experience and delivers exceptional value will be essential throughout the whole holiday sales season in 2024.

Top 5 Heartwarming Holiday Marketing Campaign Examples

It may be not enough just to have high-quality goods among your store listings. Entrepreneurs should focus on holiday marketing campaign ideas and activate as many channels to promote their brand as possible. Competition among retailers is high, especially on the eve of big celebrations. So you should prepare in advance and ensure stable traffic to your website. Here, we describe the top 5 outstanding ideas for simple products that may become your inspiration for individual advertisements.

The Starbucks Red Cups

Every year coffee fans wait when Starbucks will change the color of its cups to red. That’s how they know the holiday season has started. Such a tradition is greatly appreciated by all the brands’ customers as since 2015 everyone can participate in the Red Cup contest, suggest their designs on social media, and win prizes. This is one of the examples of a great holiday marketing campaign as people can become a part of this event and count the days when the new design will be released each year.

Apple Christmas Commercial 2021

The company created a lovely and heartwarming video about the family traveling to their grandparent to celebrate the holiday.

While telling a story of love and friendship, Apple showcases the functionality of its products and reveals how they can serve people in everyday life: to entertain children on a long road, take photos, and create unforgettable memories that bring people together.

Walking in Dad’s Shoes with Macy

Macy's brand could refresh the value of such simple gifts as socks. In its successful holiday marketing campaign the company told a story of a little girl who literally walked the whole day in her dad’s shoes facing all his hard work and efforts for the family. When the daughter saw how much her father does in his routine she realized what to get him as a present - a pair of convenient and soft socks to make his day brighter.

IKEA asked children about their wishes

On Christmas Eve IKEA asked children to write two letters: one for Santa and another for their parents. With tears in their eyes, one could find that little boys and girls want to spend more qualitative time with their parents playing table games, jumping as cowboys, and reading. This campaign could help a lot of people to fully understand what a perfect gift is.

Nordstrom’s “#MakeMerry” campaign

This brand made the biggest shopping season a little easier for customers with its free gift help, coffee, mugs, gingerbread, and reusable bags, which customers could turn into origami or Christmas tree decorations following simple instructions.

Wrapping up

As you can see, the holiday options are vast, and they offer tempting opportunities for a print on demand business. Therefore, you should select the most appropriate ones and set up the corresponding marketing strategy to boost your holidays print on demand service. Your primary focus in this regard should be made on two things: your own promo campaigns and a range of holiday-themed designs. 

With wise strategic planning, unique designs, and effective marketing campaigns POD businesses can appeal to a wider target audience, top-up sales, and stand out among rivals. Seasonal opportunities offer undeniable advantages for e-commerce stores including increased customer satisfaction, repeat business, and product differentiation.

By staying ahead of holiday trends, optimizing your listings, and promoting brands through social media print on demand companies can discover new horizons and build a path for further development and scaling. So, get inspired, be creative, and have rewarding celebrations!