By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — Friday the 13th has long been shrouded in superstitions of bad luck, but history tells a different story for businesses worldwide. Contrary to the ominous aura, many companies have celebrated significant successes on this allegedly cursed day. From blockbuster movie releases to groundbreaking technological launches, Friday the 13th has often been a springboard for remarkable achievements, demonstrating that superstition holds no sway in the world of commerce.
- One notable example is the release of “Ice Age: Continental Drift” on Friday, July 13, 2012. Defying any notions of bad luck, the animated film grossed over $877 million worldwide, becoming one of the highest-grossing movies of the year. Its success on Friday the 13th underscores how entertainment ventures can thrive regardless of superstitious dates.
- Similarly, the tech giant Apple chose Friday, September 13, 2013, to open pre-orders for the iPhone 5C. The decision proved fortuitous as the company received overwhelming orders, contributing to a record-breaking launch weekend with over 9 million iPhones sold. Apple’s strategic move on Friday the 13th highlights how innovation and consumer enthusiasm overshadow any superstitions associated with the date.
- In the film industry once again, “Jumanji: The Next Level” hit theaters on Friday, December 13, 2019. The movie defied any unlucky connotations, raking in over $800 million globally. Its success story on Friday the 13th further cements the idea that the date can be a lucrative opportunity for major releases.
- Even the stock market, often influenced by investor sentiment, has seen positive performances on Friday the 13th. For instance, on Friday, October 13, 2017, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at a record high, continuing an upward trend that defied any negative superstitions. This performance sent a clear message to investors and businesses alike: success is driven by market dynamics and strategic decisions, not by the calendar.
In Costa Rica, businesses consistently brush aside concerns about Friday the 13th, focusing instead on the natural uptick in consumer activity that accompanies the start of the weekend. Fridays are synonymous with increased sales for retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Popular establishments like Soda Tapia in San José experience higher customer volumes as locals and tourists alike begin their weekend festivities. Shopping centers such as Multiplaza Escazú bustle with activity, with sales numbers climbing as shoppers seek out weekend deals.
Tourism, a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s economy, thrives on Fridays irrespective of the date. Adventure tourism companies offering zipline tours, rainforest hikes, and surfing lessons see a surge in bookings as visitors gear up for weekend adventures. Beachside resorts in Guanacaste welcome new arrivals eager to relax and explore, reinforcing that Friday the 13th is just another day of opportunity in the vibrant tourism sector.
Despite lingering myths, Friday the 13th has repeatedly proven to be a day when opportunity and success prevail. Savvy businesses recognize that consumer behavior and market trends hold far more sway than old superstitions. By capitalizing on these patterns, companies continue to execute smart strategies and reap the rewards of preparation and innovation.
Ultimately, Friday the 13th exemplifies that success is shaped by action, not superstition.
The date holds no special power over the outcome of business ventures. Entrepreneurs and established companies alike can move forward with confidence, knowing that any day—including Friday the 13th—can be the perfect time to launch a new product, close a significant deal, or achieve a milestone.
In Costa Rica and around the world, businesses continue to thrive, turning supposed bad luck into undeniable success.
