Black Friday is no longer a single day of deals. Starting as early as mid-November and lasting until Cyber Monday, the sales bonanza includes retailers like Amazon, Argos, Aldi, and Tesco, offering tempting discounts. However, while there are genuine bargains to be had, not all deals are as good as they seem. Here's a guide to navigating Black Friday and avoiding common traps.
Do Black Friday Deals Really Save You Money?
According to research by MoneySavingExpert, over two-thirds of 50 popular items in 2023 were cheaper on Black Friday than during the Christmas season. This suggests some items are worth snapping up now if they come with a decent discount. However, consumers need to stay vigilant, as not all discounts are genuine.
Beware of "Fake Sales"
PriceSpy’s analysis reveals that 1.5 million product prices increased in October, only to be artificially lowered during Black Friday. For instance, a Henry Quick Cordless vacuum cleaner was priced at £239, hiked to £289 in October, and then offered at a "sale price" of £199. While still a saving of £40, it’s far less impressive than the claimed £100 discount.
Last year, 85% of products were available at the same or lower prices outside Black Friday, so it pays to check price history before buying.
Tips to Spot Genuine Deals
- Look Beyond the Discount Tag
Discounts that seem too good to be true often are. Liisa Matinvesi-Bassett from PriceSpy warns that around 10% of Black Friday deals are fake, with inflated delivery fees sometimes offsetting "savings." Always calculate the total purchase cost, including shipping.
- Track Price History
Use tools like PriceSpy, PriceRunner, or CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon) to monitor how much an item has sold for over time. This ensures you’re truly getting a deal.
- Plan Ahead
Start researching now to familiarise yourself with prices. That way, you’ll know if the deal is genuine when Black Friday arrives.
Watch Out for Subpar Products
Consumer watchdog Which? highlights that some products on sale during Black Friday aren’t worth the hype. These might fail safety tests or simply underperform. Check their list of items to avoid before making big purchases.
Final Tips for Smart Shopping
- Stick to a Budget: Don’t get swept up in the sales frenzy. Focus on what you need.
- Compare Retailers: Check if another store offers the same product cheaper.
- Beware of Hidden Costs: Delivery fees and extended warranties can add up.
Conclusion: Black Friday Can Be Worth It—With Caution
Black Friday isn’t a complete con, but it’s not always as straightforward as it seems. With some preparation and price tracking, you can score genuine bargains. However, staying aware of fake sales and inflated delivery charges is crucial to ensuring your purchases are truly worth the investment. Happy shopping!
Source: (SKY.com)
