Why June 18th became a Shopping Festival?
The 618 Shopping Festival (June 18th, this Sunday) is here again! What is 618 and why, let’s find out.
618 Meanings in Chinese
The number 618 is consist of three numbers.
Figure 6 Meaning in Chinese
The figure 6, written as “六 (liù)” in Chinese, stands for “smoothly and going well”.
“六六大顺 (liù liù dà shùn)”, which is always used to wish other and everything goes well.
Figure 8 Meaning in Chinese
The figure 8 is pronounced in Chinese similar to the character “发 (fā)” in the Chinese word “发财 (fā cái)”, which means to get rich.
Figure 1 Meaning in Chinese
In most cases you will pronounce the number “1” as “一 (yī)” when wanting to say “one.”
But, the sound “yāo” can replace “yī” when discussing phone numbers ,room numbers and bus numbers.
“yāo” is much similar to a Chinese word “要 (yào)” meaning want
What is 618 Shopping Festival?
618 represents the date of June 18th.
618 Shopping Festival is the second largest Shopping Festival in China.
This party lasts 18 days (June 1st – 18th), China’s e-commerce landscape is filled with promotional activities.
Why June 18th became a Shopping Festival?
618 Shopping Festival was started by JD (京东Jīngdōng, JD.com）to celebrate it founding. JD rolls out promotions every year on its birthday (June 18th)
JD (京东Jīngdōng) was founded by Liu Qiangdong(刘强东 Liú Qiángdōng) on June 18th, 1998, and its retail platform went online in 2004.
618 Shopping Festival was first started in 2010, as a competitor to the shopping festival launched by rival Taobao(淘宝táo bǎo), Singles’ Day (or Double 11 in Chinese).
What started as a modest promotional venture to enhance sales, 618 has evolved significantly. It now marks JD.com’s anniversary with astounding deals across a wide array of product categories, attracting millions of shoppers annually.
618 has become the second largest shopping day in China after Singles’ Day (November 11th).
618 vs. Black Friday: A Cultural Comparison
Black Friday is synonymous with packed stores and early morning doorbusters. In contrast, 618 spans several days, emphasizing online sales, which cater to the convenience of modern shoppers and offer extended opportunities to score great deals.
Key Features of the 618 Festival
- Extensive Product Discounts: From high-tech gadgets to everyday apparel, 618 offers steep discounts that attract a broad consumer base.
- Technology Integration: Leveraging advanced analytics and AI, JD.com personalizes shopping experiences, making each offer seem tailor-made.
- Duration and Timing: Unlike Black Friday’s single-day frenzy, 618 extends over nearly a week, allowing for a more relaxed shopping experience.
Impact on the Market
The 618 Shopping Festival not only boosts JD.com’s sales but also significantly impacts the global market. It features exclusive product launches and collaborations that are eagerly anticipated by consumers worldwide.
Consumer Insights
Shoppers often express appreciation for the convenience and variety that 618 offers. Testimonials highlight the ease of transactions and the excitement of discovering new products and brands during the festival.
Popular Chinese Online Shopping Sites
Jd.com (Jīngdōng 京东), Taobao.com ( táo bǎo 淘宝) , Tmall.com (Tiānmāo 天猫), Pinduoduo.com (pīn duō duo 拼多多), Xiaohongshu.com (xiǎohóngshū 小红书),Vip.com (wéi pǐn huì 唯品会).
More please check 6 Most Popular Chinese Online Shopping Sites
Essential Vocabulary for Online Shopping in Chinese
