If you’ve been feeling a weird tingling sensation recently, our advice is NOT to call your doctor just yet. Chances are it’s nothing serious – you probably just have a major case of excitement. Symptoms include anticipation, mass spending, lots of saving and plenty of post purchase satisfaction. It’s nothing to worry about. In fact, all you need is a bit of retail therapy and you’ll be right
as rain!
Black Friday fever has rapidly swept the nation, with both retailers and customers alike basking in its resounding impact. Its introduction into our market sphere has drastically altered the way we purchase, and in turn, the way retailers themselves operate. In fact, few events have as resounding an impact on a global economic scale like Black Friday. Like it or not it’s here, and from our end, we’re pretty glad. In a tough socio-economic climate, spending power is at an all-time low. We, the consumer, are now forced to adopt an increasingly budget conscious mindset. As much as we wish that petrol stations would also have massive markdowns, chances are they probably won’t. Actually, they definitely won’t. What does that mean? Well, it means we South Africans need to save elsewhere.
As such, Black Friday presents a rare opportunity for many to treat themselves. As these opportunities become increasingly few and far between, it’s important we grab them with both hands. Black Friday is almost here, and to ignore it would be a huge missed opportunity.
So, what exactly is Black Friday?
Traditionally, the biggest shopping day of the year, Black Friday is an originally American concept that has since made its way to international shores. It was originally given the name due to the mass traffic caused by commuting shoppers – police coined the phrase in reference to the resultant congestion. Over the years, the concept rapidly gained traction. As retailers within the States realised the profit potential of reduced prices on the day, their international counterparts took notice, and the event has slowly infiltrated other countries worldwide.
Although the day started as a commemoration of the first Friday after Thanksgiving, many participating nations don’t even acknowledge the holiday. Black Friday has, essentially, taken a life of its own. Can you picture an all-conquering, all-powerful force of nature? That’s Black Friday.
When do we celebrate it?
Well, the key part of the day lies in the word Friday. As such, the actual date changes from year to year. This year, we celebrate it on 23 November.
What can I expect?
Expect to save while spending. The majority of retailers traditionally apply massive in-store sales and markdowns. This gives them a chance to get rid of stock that wouldn’t ordinarily sell while enabling the customer access to products they wouldn’t ordinarily afford. You can pick up some amazing bargains at quite frankly ludicrous prices. Fancy a new couch or an upgraded TV? What about that pair of sneakers you thought about last week? Clothing, accessories, games and, mostly, electronics – it’s up to you to decide what you want before ensuring you find the best deal.
So, now what?
Well, you’ve still got a bit of time to prepare, so we suggest saving. If you’re planning on indulging in a bit of retail therapy or even doing some household shopping, why not wait until the end of the month? You can probably find what you want at significantly better prices, thereby giving you more bang for your buck. Keep an eye out as to what major retailers are offering. Look around for the best deals, approach your shopping experience with a plan of action and, mostly, establish a budget in advance. We look forward to touching base with you in a few weeks.
For now, be patient, because good things come to those who wait – and those who shop on Black Friday.