Black Friday now Black November: Month of ads and deals
Filed under: News
When you think about Black Friday, you think of that one day event the Friday after Thanksgiving where shoppers can get themselves a bargain. 2009 is very different as it has turned into a month long event, which we have now called Black November.
It is no secret that retailers have been struggling this year, and they will do all they can to get customers into their stores. Stores used to make a healthy profit on Black Friday, but there is less cash to go around so the retailers has to offer lower prices for longer.
Some of the stores that have already begun to offer early deals include Wal-Mart, as well as online store Amazon. Both had Black Friday pre-sale events Saturday just gone. According to the Wall Street Journal, Target went one better by offering up to 50 percent off prices in October.
Retailers misjudged how bad the recession was last year and had to keep prices low way into the new year, this year they want to be more prepared and offer the deals earlier in order to get the dollars in early.
Retailers will find it harder than ever this year; they have to keep profits up while still managing to keep customers coming in. Just think how hard this is when profit margins are lower than they have been in years.
2008 Black Friday Deals: It’s 2 weeks away
Pre-Black Friday 2009 Deals: Target, Best Buy, Sears and Kmart
Sears Black Friday 2009 Ads: Doorbusters
Target Black Friday Ads 2009: Best Buy and Walmart Similar
I would avoid waiting until December for shopping, unless it’s a last-minute release, because sales probably won’t get much better (except for some seasonal merchandise). You need time to wrap those gifts, decorate the house, and enjoy the parties that come starting with Thanksgiving. The next two weeks or so should be the best time to shop. Bring an iPod if you can’t stand Christmas music too early if the store plays it, however.