Black Friday 2024 is a big shopping day that happens after Thanksgiving, marking the start of the holiday shopping season. It’s known for huge discounts and busy stores. Let’s explore its history, find out why it’s called “Black Friday,” see why it’s connected to a specific date, and understand its global influence.
History of Black Friday:
It started in the 1960s in Philadelphia. It described the crowded and chaotic streets the day after Thanksgiving when lots of people went shopping. Initially, it had a negative meaning, reflecting the challenges faced by law enforcement and businesses.
Why “Black” Friday? The Name’s Evolution:
Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t mean businesses operate at a loss (in the red) and then turn a profit on this day. The name likely came from the chaos in Philadelphia, with “black” symbolizing traffic jams and disorder. Over time, it changed to mean the day when retailers become profitable (in the black).
Black Friday as a Date: Tradition Unraveled:
Thanksgiving is always on the fourth Thursday of November in the U.S., and day after Thanksgiving. follows the next day. This timing gives shoppers a long weekend to explore deals, emphasizing gratitude before the festive gift-giving season.
Duration of Black Friday 2024 Sales: Shopping Extravaganza:
Originally just one day, Vendredi noir sales now often last a week, thanks to online shopping. Retailers offer week-long events, turning it into a longer shopping period.
Global Impact of Black Friday: A Shopping Phenomenon:
Though it started in the U.S., Vendredi noir has become a global shopping event, with many countries participating in both online and in-store sales.
Countries That Resist Black Friday: A Few Exceptions:
Some countries, like France, don’t embrace Black Friday. The French government discourages this American tradition, emphasizing fair pricing throughout the year.
Online Shopping’s Role in Black Friday Evolution:
The rise of online shopping gave birth to Cyber Monday, an online counterpart to Black Friday. This digital evolution turned Black Friday into a multi-channel shopping event.
Black Friday Deals and Strategies: Luring Shoppers:
Exclusive deals and doorbusters are key to Black Friday, attracting early shoppers with limited-time, deeply discounted items. Retailers use scarcity to create urgency and excitement.
Black Friday’s Influence on Thanksgiving Traditions:
Black Friday encroaching on Thanksgiving has sparked controversy, with stores opening on Thanksgiving evening. This blurs holiday lines, raising concerns about traditional family gatherings and the commercialization of a gratitude-focused day.
Dark Side of Black Friday: Consumerism and Concerns:
Despite the savings, Black Friday has a darker side, with chaotic scenes and occasional violence. Ethical concerns include worker treatment and environmental impact, prompting calls for a more thoughtful approach to holiday shopping.
Black Friday Beyond Retail: Impact on Small Businesses:
While major retailers dominate Black Friday, it also affects small businesses. Small Business Saturday, after Black Friday, encourages support for local businesses, highlighting the tension between big corporate discounts and community support.
Evolution of Black Friday Marketing: From Print to Social Media:
Promoting Black Friday deals has shifted from print ads to social media. Retailers now use platforms like social media to build anticipation, share sneak peeks of deals, and directly interact with consumers, reflecting changes in consumer behavior and technology.
In conclusion, Black Friday has evolved from chaos to a global shopping phenomenon. Understanding its history, name, and connection to a specific date gives insight into this busy shopping day. While significant for retailers and consumers, it’s essential to recognize countries that resist this shopping event. Armed with this knowledge, consumers can approach Black Friday with a better understanding of its complexity and impact on modern consumer culture.