Without going to the market or votive paper shop, Ms. Lam Ngoc (living in Dien Hong ward) only needs a few operations on her phone to order a complete set of offerings for the full moon of July, from gold coins, paper clothes to simulated items. Combos are pre-packaged, delivered to your home, and even have express delivery services during the day.
Just choose a combo, the seller has prepared it. I don't have to spend time looking for each type, sometimes I miss a dish. Goods are delivered to your home, so it's quite convenient" - Ms. Ngoc said.
On e-commerce platforms and delivery applications, more and more stalls are selling votive paper with all kinds of products. Instead of spending time choosing each item, buyers can choose combos divided according to needs such as worshiping ancestors, worshiping sentient beings or the full moon of July.
The prices of combos are quite diverse, from 49,000 VND to more than 300,000 VND. Some sets are packaged in bags, clearly stating ingredients and quantities for buyers to easily choose. Sellers also post product images, instructions on how to use and receive orders via text messages.
Ms. Le Tu Hanh - owner of an online store in Ho Chi Minh City - said that the online form of selling votive paper is increasingly attracting customer interest, especially on major holidays.
Buying votive paper and online offering trays is especially suitable for busy families or elderly people who have difficulty walking. Product images, selling prices and combo ingredients are publicly available to help buyers easily compare before deciding. Today, my orders are also many because customers have high demand" - Ms. Hanh said.
According to records, not only votive paper, many items serving the full moon of July, offering to wandering souls such as offering trays, fruits, fresh flowers, cakes and vegetarian food are also uploaded by stores to online platforms. Customers can order each item separately or choose packages prepared according to price levels.
Prices on e-commerce platforms and delivery applications are also 20-30% higher than buying directly at traditional stores or markets. However, many people said that they still accept this price because in return it is convenient, without having to spend time traveling, choosing each item or transporting bulky goods home.
At some large supermarket chains in Ho Chi Minh City, preliminary processed or cooked ready-made offering trays, and votive paper combos have also been launched to serve the full moon of July, offering to wandering souls of the people.
