Black Friday is one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year, and the UK is no exception. Originating in the United States, Black Friday has made a significant impact on the global retail scene, with British consumers eagerly waiting for the best deals on everything from tech to fashion.
In 2024, the event promises to be bigger than ever, with retailers offering deep discounts across a variety of products.
Whether you’re looking for a new smartphone, gaming console, home appliances, or gifts for the holidays, Black Friday offers something for everyone.
When is Black Friday 2024?
Black Friday traditionally falls on the Friday after Thanksgiving, a U.S. holiday. In 2024, Black Friday will take place on 29 November, but many retailers in the UK are expected to start their sales much earlier.
This has become a common trend, with “Black Friday Week” or even “Black Friday Month” sales happening well before the official date.
What to Expect: Major Categories and Products
Retailers across the UK will offer significant discounts on a wide range of products. Here are the top categories where you can expect the best deals:
Tech Gadgets and Electronics:
Always a favorite during Black Friday, electronics like smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles are expected to be heavily discounted. Retailers such as Amazon, Currys, and John Lewis often lead the charge in offering substantial price cuts on brands like Apple, Samsung, and Sony.
Amazon:
Expect up to 60% off on Amazon devices like the Echo and Fire TV Stick. There will also be major discounts on smart home devices, kitchen gadgets like air fryers, and even tech essentials such as headphones and smartwatches.
Currys:
With significant savings on tablets, home entertainment systems, and laptops, Currys is a key player for Black Friday tech deals. Last year’s deals on iPads and PS5 consoles were particularly popular, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for similar discounts.
Fashion and Beauty:
Fashion retailers like ASOS, Zara, and Boohoo are expected to offer up to 70% off on clothing, footwear, and accessories. Additionally, stores like John Lewis and Debenhams will likely run promotions on beauty products, skincare, and fragrances.
Home Appliances and Furniture:
For those looking to upgrade their home, Black Friday offers an excellent opportunity to purchase appliances such as vacuums, fridges, and coffee machines at a fraction of the cost. Retailers like Argos and AO.com usually have compelling deals in this category, with savings of up to 50%.
Gaming and Toys:
Black Friday is also a fantastic time to score deals on gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Additionally, popular toy brands like Lego and Barbie tend to see discounts during this time, making it perfect for early holiday shopping.
Top Retailers to Watch
Several major UK retailers participate in Black Friday, each offering unique deals and promotions:
Amazon: Known for its extensive range of products, Amazon will feature discounts across all categories, including tech, toys, home essentials, and fashion. Amazon’s Black Friday event typically starts early, with “lightning deals” and flash sales that change throughout the day.
John Lewis: Renowned for its customer service and extended warranties on electronics, John Lewis will likely feature significant savings on tech gadgets, home appliances, and beauty products. The retailer’s reputation for quality makes it a popular destination for Black Friday shoppers.
Currys: As one of the UK’s largest electronics retailers, Currys will feature discounts on everything from smartphones to 4K TVs. They often run pre-sale events and offer tips on how to prepare for Black Friday shopping.
Argos: With a wide selection of products, Argos is another retailer to monitor closely. Their Black Friday offers often include top brands in toys, home goods, and electronics. Signing up for their newsletter is a great way to stay informed about early deals.
ASOS and Boohoo: These fashion giants offer huge savings on clothing and accessories, with discounts ranging from 40% to 70% off during Black Friday. You can expect limited-time deals and flash sales that require quick action.
How to Prepare for Black Friday
With so many deals available, Black Friday can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to make sure you get the most out of the shopping extravaganza:
Create a Wishlist: Before the sales begin, make a list of items you want to buy. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
Sign Up for Newsletters: Many retailers offer exclusive early access to deals for customers who sign up for their newsletters. This is a great way to get a head start on Black Friday.
Use Price Comparison Tools: Just because something is on sale doesn’t always mean it’s the best deal. Use price comparison tools like CamelCamelCamel or PriceSpy to check the historical prices of products and ensure you’re getting a real bargain.
Set a Budget: It’s easy to get carried away with all the deals, so setting a budget beforehand will help keep your spending in check. Keep track of your purchases to avoid overspending.
FAQs
Q: What is Black Friday?
A: Black Friday is a shopping holiday that falls on the last Friday of November. It marks the start of the Christmas shopping season and is known for its significant discounts across various retailers.
Q: When is Black Friday in the UK in 2023?
A: Black Friday in the UK falls on Friday, November 24th, 2023.
Q: Where can I find Black Friday deals in the UK?
A: Black Friday deals can be found both online and in-store at major retailers like Amazon, John Lewis, Argos, Currys, and Tesco. It’s advisable to compare prices across different retailers to find the best deals.
Q: What kind of deals can I expect on Black Friday?
A: Black Friday deals typically include significant discounts on electronics, home appliances, clothing, toys, and other popular items. Some retailers may also offer exclusive deals or promotions during this period.
Q: When do Black Friday sales start?
A: While Black Friday itself falls on November 24th, many retailers start their sales earlier in the week or even in the month of November. Some retailers may also extend their Black Friday deals into the following weekend, known as Cyber Monday.
The Impact of Black Friday on Retail
It continues to be a vital event for UK retailers, driving sales and boosting the economy. The event provides a much-needed boost to the retail sector, especially during the holiday shopping season.
However, some critics argue that the focus on it can lead to unsustainable consumerism and excessive spending.
Overall, Black Friday 2023 was a successful event for both retailers and consumers. The combination of online shopping, early bird deals, and competitive pricing made it a tempting opportunity for many shoppers to save money on their purchases.
As we look ahead to Black Friday 2024, it will be interesting to see how retailers continue to adapt and innovate to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers.
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