Attracting customers
World Shopping Day, which was celebrated on November 11, has its roots in China’s Bachelor’s Day. This day, also known as Singles’ Day, is a popular shopping holiday in China. It all started in 2009, when the Alibaba Group’s online marketplace ran a marketing ploy by holding a 50% discount sale timed to coincide with Bachelor’s Day. The idea was a great success, and since then, other marketplaces have joined the campaign every year.
Uzbekistan also hosts promotions, discounts, and sales, often timed to coincide with holidays. This presents a unique opportunity for locals and tourists alike to acquire traditional handicrafts unique to Uzbekistan. These include handmade carpets, famous Rishtan ceramics (painted glasses, bowls, jugs), suzanis, national embroidered robes-chapans, various skullcaps from 12 regions of the country, and silk scarves made of adras, a fabric unique to Uzbekistan and made in the ikat technique.
And how could it be without Bukhara karakul? Glamorous guests are buying karakul coats and hats for themselves.
These are not just products, but pieces of Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage that tourists are taking home. Wooden caskets, chess sets, and stands decorated with intricately carved “lace” made by Uzbekistan’s craftsmen are not just souvenirs, but a connection to the country’s artistic legacy.
Copper products, such as trays and tea sets with deep engraving, are also a hit with the guests. Chust painted daggers with a mandatory certificate stating that such a knife is not a cold weapon are also included in the list of souvenirs for guests.
Halva, navat, pashmak, and dried fruits and nuts are popular among guests. According to tourists, Uzbek halva made from sesame, sunflower, and flour is incomparable, it has no analogues.
Also, on the mandatory list of products foreigners buy are spices, jam from the gifts of nature of Uzbekistan, assorted vegetables, and local wines from Samarkand.
Every year, more supporters celebrate World Shopping Day. These are, of course, primarily trading platforms that take advantage of the moment to offer customers huge discounts.
Lira Shafik, UzA
