Black Friday is ALL week!

by | Nov 23, 2020 | Budgeting, Savings, Shopping

Black Friday is not ONLY Black Friday this year.  It’s Black Friday ALL Week! The sales have already started and many companies are putting the pedal to the medal all this week.

Historically, retailers focused on getting out of the red and in the black on Black Friday. They are not waiting this year. 2020 has been a roller coaster and many retailers will not make a profit this year.  Some just want to break even. They realize that traffic will not be as heavy in-person this year so they are doing whatever they can to get you to their website. That’s good news for buyers who are looking for deep discounts. Shop smart and take advantage of every opportunity!

  • Use your negotiating skills.  In retail, that means price match. Many retailers have a standard policy that states they will match or beat their competitor’s price on certain items. Hold them to that policy! Even if there isn’t a standard policy, you should ask for a price match if you see the same item somewhere else for a cheaper price.
  • Do your research, especially if you are shopping for a big ticket item. There are sites like https://blackfriday.com/ads/black-friday that have a list of all the Black Friday ads.
  • This is the time to consider purchasing big ticket items like electronics and appliances. As well, there is an abundance of inventory on clothes and shoes. We’ve been inside for most of 2020, so the shelves are still full of inventory and retailers want to get rid of it.
  • Cash is King. I know you can’t use cash when shopping online BUT you can avoid carrying a balance on your credit cards. Avoid carrying your balances from month to month. Pay your credit cards off in full.
  • Avoid paying shipping costs. FREE shipping is usually available if you make a minimum purchase. However, this week it should be offered by most retailers to entice you to buy from them.
  • Keep your receipts! If you order online, make sure you print your receipts or have them emailed to you.
  • Require a signature. Protect your purchases by requiring a signature at the place of delivery. Unfortunately, we have “delivery chasers.” These are people who follow behind delivery trucks and retrieve packages that are left outside of homes. By requiring a signature, you significantly minimize the chances of your items being taken.

Have fun, be safe and shop smart!