As the new spring season starts, returns experts are urging retailers to prepare for a “triple wave” of increased product returns following the UK bank holidays.
ReBound Returns’ analysis of returns data has highlighted a consistent pattern of spikes in return volume in the weeks following Easter, the Early May Bank Holiday, and the Spring Bank Holiday. Each year, the data shows a noticeable uptick in returned items arriving a week after the long weekends, and the peaks have increased year-on-year.
Last year, the highest returns levels outside of the November-January peak season occurred in early June, a week after the Spring Bank Holiday. Returns have almost reached peak season levels for the previous year.
The trend is set to continue in 2025, with surges in returns predicted for the weeks commencing April 28th, May 12th, and June 2nd.
Several factors contribute to this seasonal increase in returns. Bank holidays encourage increased consumer spending as people take advantage of long weekends, warmer weather, and seasonal wardrobe updates. Many shoppers are expected to make purchases for bank holiday events, leading to a natural uptick in returns once these occasions have passed. Bank holiday closures of some retail stores and Post Office services can limit drop-off returns options for consumers, leading to higher volumes when normal business resumes.
With the 2025 Easter weekend falling later than in previous years, starting on 18th April, retailers had more time to prepare. However, the condensed timeframe between the three spikes could create a more challenging period of returns for many retailers.
Marko Kiers, Chief Commercial Officer at ReBound, said: “Retailers are well aware of peak shopping periods in the calendar, but bank holiday returns spikes often catch brands off guard. Each year, we see an increase in returns volume following the seasonal long weekends. With return rates already on the rise, and the 2025 “triple waves” all taking place within just five weeks, the pattern will likely intensify.
“Ensuring a smooth and efficient returns process will be vital in getting items back to stock for faster resale, and for quick refund processing times, so customers’ money is back in their pockets to spend on the next long weekends. The resulting boost to customer satisfaction and brand loyalty will deliver long-term rewards far beyond the spring season.”