Amazon expands Prime Day discounts: Retailers assess price increases due to tariffs

Amazon extends Prime Day to four days with exclusive offers for Generation Z and cash back refunds. Analysts warn that tariffs could affect prices. Competitors like Walmart are expanding promotions.

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Amazon will extend this year's Prime Day sales event to four days, with discounts every five minutes and special benefits for Generation Z, in an effort to revitalize enthusiasm for its 11th edition.

According to the agency AP, the discount event for Prime subscribers began this Tuesday at 3:01 a.m. (Eastern Time) and will conclude early Friday morning. This is the first time that the event has extended beyond the traditional two days since its inception in 2015.

Prime members aged 18 to 24, who already pay a reduced monthly fee of $7.49 compared to the regular $14.99, will now receive 5% cash back on their purchases for a limited time.

Do tariffs influence prices?

Although Amazon declined to comment on the direct impact of the new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, analysts assert that trade tensions could indeed affect prices in the short term.

At the end of May, Amazon reported that some sellers had anticipated the fees by stockpiling inventory to avoid raising prices. However, certain stores are expected not to participate in Prime Day to protect their profit margins.

The mentioned media outlet reported that Karoline Leavitt, White House spokesperson, described a supposed initiative by Amazon to display tariffs alongside product prices as a "hostile and political act," something the company later clarified was only considered for its low-cost platform "Haul."

More days, more sales?

Amazon says that customers "wanted more time to shop and save," according to Jamil Ghani, vice president of Amazon Prime. However, some experts doubt that the extra days will lead to increased sales, given consumers' fear of inflation and future price hikes.

According to Adobe Digital Insights, the event is expected to generate $23.8 billion in online sales from July 8 to 11, an increase of 28.4% compared to the previous year. Nonetheless, Caila Schwartz from Salesforce warns that consumers may restrict their purchases to essential items.

Competitions and featured articles

Retailers like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy have responded by also extending their promotional periods. Walmart, for example, will extend its offers until July 13, both in physical stores and online, with discounts such as a 50” Vizio TV for $248, or a 32” Samsung monitor for $199.

Amazon, for its part, offers promotions on its own devices such as Echo, Fire TV, and Fire tablets, in addition to early discounts on school supplies and essential items.

What is Prime Day?

Launched in 2015 to celebrate Amazon's twentieth anniversary, Prime Day has become its most iconic sales event, designed to stimulate consumer spending in the middle of the year. Only Prime subscribers can access the deals, which include technology, fashion, home, toys, beauty, sports, and more, according to Infobae.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amazon's Prime Day and the Impact of Tariffs

How long will Amazon's Prime Day last this year?

Amazon's Prime Day will this year extend to four days, from Tuesday through early Friday morning. This is the first time the event has been extended beyond the usual two days since its inception in 2015.

How will the new tariffs affect prices on Amazon?

Although Amazon has not directly commented on the impact of the new tariffs, analysts assert that trade tensions could alter prices in the short term. Some sellers have accumulated inventory to avoid raising prices, but certain stores are expected to refrain from participating in Prime Day to protect their profit margins.

What additional benefits will young people from Generation Z have during Prime Day?

Prime members aged 18 to 24, who already pay a reduced monthly fee, will receive 5% cash back on their purchases during Prime Day, providing an additional incentive for this age group.

How has Amazon's competition reacted to the extended Prime Day?

Competitors such as Walmart, Target, and Best Buy have extended their promotional periods in response to Amazon's extended Prime Day. Walmart, for instance, will extend its offers until July 13 both in physical stores and online.

What impact will Trump's tariffs have on retail trade?

Trump's tariffs could increase prices of various consumer products, affecting both retailers and consumers. Brands like Walmart and Amazon might have to adjust their pricing strategies due to the additional costs, which could lead to higher prices for consumers.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.