Ensuring You Secure the Best Deal

As Black Friday approaches, shoppers are inundated with deals and promotions. Born in the United States after Thanksgiving, this shopping event has gained prominence in the UK. What started as one day of sales has now transformed into several weeks of discounts.

Understanding the Black Friday Landscape

Research from consumer group Which? reveals an eye-opening statistic: 80% of deals advertised during Black Friday are either the same price or cheaper at other times of the year. This means consumers might find better bargains outside the designated sale period.

Ensure You Secure the Best Deal

To maximize savings, consumers should be vigilant about the authenticity of discounts. Retailers sometimes inflate prices prior to Black Friday, only to lower them during the sale. Tools like PriceRunner and CamelCamelCamel can help track historical prices to verify discounts.

• For example, an Apple iPad was priced at £309 on October 19 but rose to £391.99 on November 10. It returned to £309 on November 21 during the Black Friday sales.

Retail analyst Natalie Berg emphasizes the convenience of using AI tools like ChatGPT to streamline deal-hunting. For instance, users can inquire about the best Black Friday deals suited for specific interests.

Don’t Delay Your Purchase

Shoppers often hesitate to buy in hopes of better deals on Black Friday. However, Which? tracked 175 products, revealing that none were at their lowest prices on that day. Retail analyst Catherine Shuttleworth warns against waiting, as many popular items might run out.

If you spot a desirable product at a good price, purchase it and retain the receipt. Many retailers, including Currys and Argos, offer price guarantees that allow refunds if prices drop post-purchase.

Stocking Up on Essentials

Consumers should also consider everyday items. Discounts on essential products like toilet paper and dishwasher tablets can be significant. Kat Cereda from Which? encourages shoppers to identify their needs early and subscribe to newsletters for timely sales alerts.

Protection Against Scams

Black Friday can attract scams, with fraudulent websites and counterfeit products surfacing. Jane Parsons, a consumer expert at Citizens Advice, advises caution. If a deal appears too good to be true, take the time to research the retailer.

This year, TikTok has emerged as a platform for Black Friday sales, featuring brands like M&S and L’Oréal. However, consumers should ensure the accounts they purchase from are verified.

Using Credit Cards Wisely

When spending over £100, it is advisable to use a credit card. This provides legal protections, allowing for refunds if issues arise with orders. Hayley Fletcher from the Competition and Markets Authority highlights this point, reinforcing the importance of safe spending practices.

As Black Friday strategies unfold, shoppers should be informed to make educated purchasing decisions while ensuring they secure the best deals possible.