Andrew Orr
In a significant departure from a longstanding tradition, Apple will no longer offer gift-wrapping for online purchases in the US and at least many other countries.
This decision marks the end of a years-long practice that saw gift wrapping as an option alongside all of the continuing build-to-order options on the online Apple Store. As with many high-end retailers, the gift wrapping was remarkably well done, meaning that buyers could gift quite beautifully presented Apple devices.
Apples gift wrapping was more minimalist than some stores, however. The process typically involved placing items in a white box that was then adorned with a vibrant red ribbon.
It was visually appealing and became a recognizably Apple aesthetic. Alongside the box and ribbon, Apple also included a greeting card within the package.
That allowed customers to add a personalized message tailored for the recipient. However, alongside the overall gift wrapping service, Apple has also decided to stop offering a gift message on the order's packing slip.
The online Apple Store does still offer what it calls gift services. However, these are to with shipping purchases to friends or family around or outside the US. There is also an Apple Gift Card that can be sent instead of devices.
Countries affected by the discontinuation of this service include Australia, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as spotted by MacRumors.
Apple's retail stores have not generally included any gift wrapping options, but they do continue to press smartly-designed Apple bags onto customers.
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
Malcolm Owen
14 Comments
Good, that's less trash being thrown into the ocean, we don't need more mass produced gift wrapping that ultimately ends up being wasted anyway.
Agree. Less trash is a good thing.
And on a side note, let me say that it's nice to finally have a day when every other article isn't shilling for Amazon....
Nope, I disagree.
1. By definition it’s a gift, so people will just buy the wrapping elsewhere and likely in larger more wasteful quantities - because that’s how it’s sold.
2. Apple has smart people and they already know this…so this is about simple economics and convenience for Apple…I don’t fault Apple for this, it’s just business, but please don’t think this is going to save the environment.
3. This move has a net zero effect or actually makes things slightly worse.
4. Also, remember paper and fabric are both biodegradable, it will naturally dissolve.
Well that sucks.