Preparing for black friday
Black Friday is not what it used to be. People lined up at the doors, shoving, and screaming to get their hands on the latest releases at a steal of a price. Why is that? What are consumers missing out on?
Black Friday is a popular shopping day that occurs annually on the day after Thanksgiving in the United States. It marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping season and is known for significant discounts and promotions offered by retailers. The term "Black Friday" originated in the 1960s and was initially used to describe the heavy and disruptive pedestrian and vehicle traffic that would occur on the day after Thanksgiving.
Over time, the meaning of Black Friday evolved, and it became associated with the idea that retailers would start to turn a profit, moving from being "in the red" to being "in the black" on their balance sheets due to the increased sales during this shopping event.
Black Friday is characterized by early store openings, doorbuster deals, and large crowds of shoppers looking to take advantage of the discounts. In recent years, online retailers have also embraced Black Friday, extending the event to the internet with numerous online sales and promotions. The popularity of Black Friday has spread to other countries, and while it is still a significant shopping day in the United States, it has become a global phenomenon in many places.
So, why do people no longer line up at the doors? Well, there are a few reasons as to the reason why.
CYBER MONDAY
Cyber Monday is another major shopping event that follows Black Friday. It takes place on the Monday immediately following Thanksgiving, which means it falls on the Monday after Black Friday. While Black Friday traditionally involves in-store sales and promotions, Cyber Monday is focused on online shopping.
Cyber Monday originated in the mid-2000s as online retailers sought to capitalize on the growing popularity of internet shopping. It's often seen as a counterpart to Black Friday, with a particular emphasis on digital deals and discounts. On Cyber Monday, many online retailers offer significant price reductions, special promotions, and exclusive deals on a wide range of products, including electronics, clothing, home goods, and more.
The name "Cyber Monday" was coined to highlight the online nature of the event. As internet connectivity and online shopping have become increasingly prevalent, Cyber Monday has grown in significance, and it is now a global phenomenon. Like Black Friday, Cyber Monday has expanded beyond its original borders and is observed by retailers and consumers in various countries around the world. Many consumers look forward to both Black Friday and Cyber Monday as opportunities to find bargains and complete their holiday shopping. Besides Cyber Monday, it is important to note that not only accessibility has affected the attendance of Black Friday. COVID-19 has had an effect on the socialization of people. Similar to the flu, this virus has caused many people to get ill on a yearly basis and is also evolving each year. Meaning, most people are at risk when it comes to large social gatherings. In ways to help, most resources have gone digital. This means Cyber Monday is the most likely place to shop as most deals will be the same as in the stores. Alright, let’s get to the elephant in the room here. Prices.
PRICES
Beware of the prices listed even if they say it is at a discounted or clearance rate. Oftentimes, these products are actually raised in price on purpose, so when it is lowered it is at the original listing price at most retailers. Black Friday is a great event because it does bring in the bulk of products. Meaning if you can afford it, you have a higher chance of getting your hands on it. So, how do we prepare? Preparing for Black Friday involves a combination of planning, research, and strategic decision-making to make the most of the discounts and promotions offered by retailers. Here are some tips to help you prepare for Black Friday.
TIPS
Determine how much money you can afford to spend during the Black Friday sales. Having a budget will help you avoid overspending and impulse purchases. Identify the items you want to purchase, and prioritize them. This helps you stay focused and ensures that you're targeting the products you genuinely need or want. Check out the pre-Black Friday sales, advertisements, and promotions released by retailers. Many retailers start advertising their deals in the days leading up to Black Friday. Be on the lookout for special promotions and early access deals. Subscribe to newsletters from your favorite retailers. They often send exclusive deals, discount codes, and early access notifications to their subscribers. Research and compare prices for the items on your shopping list across different retailers. This ensures that you're getting the best possible deal. Some retailers offer exclusive deals through their mobile apps. Download the apps of the stores you plan to shop at to access special discounts and promotions.
Before making a purchase, be aware of the return policies of the retailers. Knowing the return process in advance can be helpful in case you change your mind or encounter issues with the purchased items. Some online retailers allow you to set price alerts for specific items. Use these features to be notified when the prices of your desired products drop. If you plan to shop online, make sure your internet connection is stable, and your devices are in good working condition. Have your payment information and shipping details ready to expedite the checkout process. Black Friday deals often start at different times, so plan when and where you'll start your shopping. Some retailers may have early morning or even midnight openings, so be aware of the schedule. If you're shopping online, ensure that you're using secure websites and payment methods. Be cautious of phishing scams and only provide personal information on trusted sites. If you miss out on Black Friday or prefer online shopping, Cyber Monday follows shortly after. Many retailers extend their promotions through the weekend and into Cyber Monday.
PRODUCTS
During Black Friday, a wide range of products across various categories are typically sold at discounted prices. Electronics such as smartphones, laptops, TVs, and gaming consoles are often popular choices, with retailers offering significant discounts to attract customers. Additionally, home appliances, furniture, clothing, and beauty products are commonly featured in Black Friday sales. Toys and gadgets, particularly those related to the holiday season, also see substantial price reductions.
Beyond physical goods, online services and subscriptions may offer special promotions. The diverse array of discounted products during Black Friday makes it an opportune time for consumers to find deals on items ranging from tech gadgets to household essentials. I highly suggest doing your research before you purchase. What is worth it more? That air fryer, or a pair of leggings? What do you need more? What will last longer? How do the prices compare? Additionally, if you can add discounts or coupons! If shopping online, use the web extension “Honey” to find those additional deals! Here are some products I suggest if you plan on doing a lot of shopping. Make your life easier and get some gadgets to help you move around easier.
Reusable Grocery Bags (3 Pack)
Recommended Product: The Reusable Grocery Bags (3 Pack) redefine eco-friendly shopping with their clever design and durability. These heavy-duty reusable bags feature a box shape that stands up and stays open, revolutionizing the way you pack groceries.
Naturally Sensible The Original Eco Friendly
Recommended Product: The Naturally Sensible Original Eco-Friendly See-Through Produce Bags redefine sustainability in grocery shopping. Crafted from soft, premium lightweight nylon mesh, these washable and reusable bags offer a planet-friendly alternative to single-use plastic. The set of five bags in vibrant colors—red, yellow, green, blue, and purple—adds a cheerful touch to your shopping routine. With a generous size of 12x14 inches, these bags provide ample space for your produce while remaining transparent for easy identification. Elevate your commitment to eco-conscious living with these reusable produce bags that seamlessly combine practicality with a green mindset.
CLAX® The Original
Recommended Product: CLAX® The Original, proudly made in Germany, stands out as a multi-use functional collapsible cart, revolutionizing convenience in mobile storage. This mobile folding trolley seamlessly combines practicality with versatility. The addition of a storage crate further enhances its functionality, making it an ideal shopping companion. The sleek black design adds a touch of sophistication to its robust structure. Whether you're navigating busy markets or simply organizing your belongings, the CLAX® cart stands as a testament to German engineering, providing a reliable and collapsible solution for your mobile storage needs.