In a year struck with economic hardship, retailers across the country are hoping for more than 130 million shoppers to come out and thin their wallets. This year, retail relies on Black Friday more than in previous years in order to post solid overall revenue numbers for 2009.
The Origins of Black Friday
The term Black Friday officially dates back to 1966, though it had been used prior. It originated in Philadelphia and referred to the heavy shopping traffic on the day following Thanksgiving. It was not until 2000 that the term Black Friday really took hold, becoming part of our autumn vocabulary and gaining much media exposure.
The day always falls on the Friday following Thanksgiving, which ranges between the 22nd and the 29th of November every year. While the Friday after Thanksgiving is not an official holiday, it is a day that many US employees take off of work. With less employees in the workplace and the holidays around the corner, Black Friday is a haven for potential shoppers and a great opportunity for retailers to spike their sales numbers.
Realizing this increase, retailers began offering incentives, which are usually not outrageous, but are enough to spark a large hype. At times one may get lucky to score among limited quantities of high-price ticket items with their price tags being slashed by good margins.
Tips for shopping on Black Friday
With the rise of popularity, shopping on Black Friday has not only become hectic but also dangerous. Last year a Walmart employee was trampled to death when a large number of shoppers stormed the store at the opening. You should have a solid strategy for shopping on Black Friday planned out in order to make the most of it.
DO: Have a plan. Know what you are looking for, research deals, and know where the item is being held in the store. Also make sure to plan ahead. The lines are unbearably long at many locations, you may need to camp out to get that great deal. Check deal sites online, like Deals & Steals on Purse Forum, prior to see if you can buy the same items online or at other stores. If you are shopping with friends and family, break up to cover more ground quicker.
DON’T: Wait until last minute. Many deals will be leaked online prior to Black Friday. Do not get into an unsafe situation, it is not worth it. Safety always comes first.
Black Friday is upon us again. Do you plan to shop the sales or do you steer clear?
