After weeks of promoting enticing discounts, retailers in the United States and other countries are gearing up for Black Friday, which is still considered the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. While online shopping has become increasingly popular, many shoppers still enjoy the experience of visiting physical stores on Black Friday to find great deals and try on items.
In the U.S., analysts are predicting a solid holiday shopping season, although it may not be as strong as the previous year due to financial pressures on consumers. This year, there are five fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas, so retailers are under pressure to attract shoppers early and in large numbers.
To entice shoppers, many retailers are offering special deals and promotions. For example, Mall of America is giving the first 200 people in line a $25 gift card, while Target is offering exclusive items only available in stores on Black Friday. Best Buy has introduced an extended version of doorbuster deals to attract customers both online and in stores.
According to market research firm Circana, retailers are eager for Black Friday to be successful as they recognize the importance of in-store sales. Impulse purchases and self-gifting are areas where retailers are hoping to see growth in sales. Shoppers are more likely to make impulse purchases in physical stores compared to online.
While some retailers, like Walmart, are heading into the holiday season with strong sales momentum, others are facing challenges. Target reported sluggish sales due to cautious consumer spending on non-essential items. Many retailers started their holiday sales earlier this year to help shoppers spread out their spending.
Despite distractions like the U.S. presidential election, retail sales are expected to increase during the holiday season. Online sales have already exceeded expectations, with consumers spending more than last year. Adobe Digital Insights predicts that Black Friday weekend, including Cyber Monday, will be a key indicator of consumers’ willingness to spend for the rest of the season.
Discounts are expected to peak during the Black Friday weekend, with the best deals on specific items like TVs, clothing, and electronics. Physical stores are preparing for a busy day after Thanksgiving, with many retailers seeing Black Friday as a crucial day for attracting shoppers and setting the tone for the rest of the holiday season.
Overall, Black Friday remains an important day for retailers to engage with customers, offer exciting deals, and create a festive shopping experience. Whether shoppers are looking for big discounts or simply enjoy the tradition of Black Friday shopping, this day continues to be a highlight of the holiday season for both consumers and retailers alike.
