Black Friday 2024 falls on November 29th and Thanksgiving on November 28th. This major shopping event in the United States kicks off the Christmas shopping season. It aims to attract people with massive discounts on retail goods this time of year.

Meaning of Black Friday

Black Friday has become one of the busiest shopping days of the year. This day is typically associated with large discounts from retailers, leading to high consumer spending. Estimates suggest the holiday season could bring in a total of $989 billion in retail sales this year, with consumers planning to spend an average of $771 per person3. The day is crucial for retailers as it can significantly impact their annual sales figures, often accounting for almost a fifth of their total sales.

Why is it celebrated?

The term “Black Friday” emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly in Philadelphia, where police used it to describe the chaotic crowds and heavy traffic that flooded the city as shoppers flocked to stores after Thanksgiving. Initially it had a negative connotation because it was a challenging day for law enforcement. Over the years, however, retailers have redefined the term to reflect a positive outcome: they are “in the black,” which in accounting means profitability, as companies look to increase sales during this critical period.

Cultural significance

Black Friday has become an event that goes beyond a day of shopping. Now it is a social event where friends and their families go shopping. The term is synonymous with consumerism and is said to herald the beginning of holiday celebrations. In recent years in particular, the event has enjoyed great popularity worldwide, so that even countries where there is no Thanksgiving are now using such strategies.

Shopping trends and offers

Sales are divided into the following main categories: electronics, clothing, toys and household items. This will mainly be the electronics sector. Discounts on electronic items such as televisions and computers are expected to range between 30 and 50 percent. Some stores will sell through Cyber ​​Monday to make it “Cyber ​​Week,” and online shopping will take place throughout the week.

Black Friday 2024 will be an important event in the retail calendar, with deep cuts and a focus on great experiences in store and online.

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