Lisa Erickson, a spokeswoman for the company, said the change was driven by a spate of last-minute orders last year.

Like most retailers, he had purchased most of his roses days before, and those were last-minute orders.

"Sorry we're late," said Peter, "but we had a last-minute order to fill."

Jim Barnes was at the foot of the Gantry crane, giving last-minute orders.

"The challenge is to find someone who can deliver last-minute orders."

And it was forced to issue last-minute orders to avert an unintended air strike against targets in Albania.

As if he didn't have enough to worry about, he just got a last-minute order for 500 Arabian princess costumes.

This year, distribution centers will be pushed to their limits as they scramble to pack, sort and send out last-minute orders.

Jeff Duncan, the company's chief financial officer, said the company was prepared for last-minute orders.

In a final rush, customers are still calling in, placing last-minute orders.