ModCloth to close down website on Black Friday

By

Obi Anyanwu

Published
Nov 21, 2017

With Black Friday only a few days away, customers and retailers are prepping for what is expected to be the biggest shopping day on record, and ModCloth wants no part of it.
 

The online retailer announced on Monday that it is shutting down its website on Black Friday, giving employees the day off, and inviting customers and staff to spend the holidays with family and friends.
 
ModCloth is also changing the focus of its social media during the week. Instead of posting about deals, the retailer will share photos and videos from customers and fans who will nominate someone known to them, who is in fact giving back to their community and deserves recognition.

"It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays and we wanted to do something different and remind our community that this time of year is about friends, family and helping others in need," said Nicole Haase, ModCloth VP and General Merchandising Manager.
 
The online retailer is one of few companies to close its business on Black Friday. Outdoor retailer Rei began closing its stores on Black Friday in 2015 with its #OptOutside campaign, which is now entering its third year.
 
The #OptOutside campaign has been very successful for Rei and has won several awards, including the 2016 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity Grand Prix prize in the Titanium Lion category. ModCloth could also receive a similar positive reaction, which would be much needed considering the backlash it has received on social media for its acquisition by Walmart through Jet.com.
 
Fans and customers of ModCloth were upset after the acquisition announcement in March, and they took to Twitter again to express their thoughts. Responses on Twitter are mixed and comprised of positive words for the online retailer’s decision to skip Black Friday and fervor for Walmart’s alleged mistreatment of women employees.
 
When it comes to shopping however, ModCloth isn’t expected to miss much by skipping Black Friday. The online retailer will be up and running over the weekend and will offer special deals and free shipping from Sunday, November 26 through Tuesday, November 28.