Seasonal merch calendar — when to order what, planning ahead

Q1 (Jan-Mar): annual planning, welcome kits Jan-Feb new hires, March 8 women's day gifts, easter (gourmet baskets). Q2 (Apr-Jun): trade show season Apr-May, spring conference swag, Father's Day (UAE/global). Q3 (Jul-Sep): fall conference push, back-to-office kits, fiscal year-end (in EU/Russia July, UK April). Q4 (Oct-Dec): holiday gifts (Nov-Dec), New Year cards, year-end employee appreciation. Lead time discipline: order Q4 holidays in Sept (3 month lead), spring trade shows in Jan. Standard: 6-12 weeks lead time for branded items, premium 12-16 weeks.