It is the shopping extravaganza that has taken the world by storm, and it is just around the corner in November 2023. For savvy shoppers and bargain hunters, this day is marked in red on the calendar and the excitement is real. But when exactly is it 2023 and what can you expect from this massive shopping event? In this blog, we'll explore the date, the history, what you need to know to make the most of the 2023 frenzy and conclude with some key takeaways.
When is Black Friday 2023?
This shopping event serves as a gateway to the holiday shopping season. In 2023, the American festivities of Thanksgiving fall on November 23rd, which means it will grace us with its incredible deals on November 24th around the world. Black Friday in 2023 falls right at the cusp of the holiday season, making it the ideal opportunity for individuals to start their holiday shopping. For shoppers, this date is not just a matter of marking a day on the calendar; it's an event.
The anticipation leading up to it can be compared to the countdown to a much-anticipated concert or a long-awaited vacation. It's a date that resonates with people on a global scale, as Black Friday is no longer just an American phenomenon, but rather an international celebration of savings and deals. It is important to note that in recent years, it has not been confined to just one day. Many retailers have extended their sales across the weekend, with some deals even spilling into Cyber Monday, giving consumers ample time to make the most of the sales. With the increase in online shopping and global retailers, Black Friday has transformed into a worldwide shopping bonanza that knows no geographical boundaries, providing consumers from different corners of the world with the chance to snag fantastic deals.
A Brief History
This shopping event originated in the United States, typically occurring on the day after Thanksgiving, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. In recent years, Australia has also embraced this shopping tradition, although it lacks the historical significance it holds in the United States.
While the roots of Black Friday may be American, its appeal transcends borders. It's not just a shopping day; it's a cultural phenomenon that's celebrated worldwide. In this context, Black Friday holds two distinct meanings: in both the United States and Australia, it is recognised for its shopping sales and discounts immediately following Thanksgiving. In Australia, it also carries two connotations, one referring to the tragic events of 1939 when devastating bushfires ravaged Victoria and South Australia, resulting in a substantial loss of life and property and one being the renowned shopping event. These two interpretations are entirely unrelated, representing different facets of Australian history and culture.
Here is a brief history of this event in Australia:
Early Adoption: This shopping event was relatively unknown in Australia until the early 2010s when it was primarily associated with the United States, marking the beginning of the holiday shopping season.
Online Retailers: The concept gained traction in Australia thanks to the rise of e-commerce and online shopping. Australian consumers noticed that many international online retailers and eCommerce platforms were offering significant discounts and sales on the same day as the U.S. event.
Growth in Popularity: As consumers became more aware of the deals and discounts offered on this shopping holiday, its popularity began to grow in Australia. Retailers, both physical stores and e-commerce websites, recognised the potential to boost sales during this period.
Retailers' Participation: Major Australian retailers and multinational companies with a presence in the country started to participate by offering discounts, promotions, and special deals.
Competition with Cyber Monday: In Australia, this event is often closely followed by Cyber Monday, which offers online deals. Together, these shopping events have become known as the "BF/Cyber Monday" weekend, allowing consumers to take advantage of discounts both in physical stores and online.
Cultural Adaptation: While it is not a public holiday in Australia and does not have the same cultural significance as in the United States, it has become an important date on the Australian retail calendar. Retailers use it as an opportunity to stimulate consumer spending in the lead-up to the Christmas season.
What to Expect on Black Friday 2023
As noted above, this shopping extravaganza isn't limited to a single day. In fact, retailers now extend their promotions earlier in the week and continue them throughout the weekend, giving shoppers more flexibility. As shopping evolves, personalisation plays a significant role, with retailers offering tailored deals based on individual shopping habits. Sustainability is another key theme, with eco-friendly products and initiatives becoming more prominent. Enhanced shipping options, including same-day or next-day delivery, make getting your purchases home even more convenient. Hybrid shopping experiences blur the lines between online and in-person shopping, and surprise flash sales add an extra layer of excitement. Mobile apps are continually improving, making it easier to browse, compare, and purchase on the go, often with exclusive app-only deals. Here's what you can expect:
Extended Black Friday: The phenomenon has expanded over the years, often stretching beyond the Friday itself. Many retailers now start their promotions earlier in the week, and some even continue the sales through the weekend. This extended timeframe gives shoppers more flexibility to find the best deals while avoiding the intense rush of the main event.
Personalised Deals: With advancements in data analytics and customer profiling, retailers are becoming more adept at tailoring deals to individual shoppers. You might receive personalised BF offers based on your browsing history and shopping habits, making your experience even more unique and rewarding.
Sustainability Initiatives: As environmental consciousness grows, you can expect some retailers to promote eco-friendly deals and products during this period. Look out for discounts on energy-efficient appliances, recycled materials, and environmentally responsible brands. It's a way to shop guilt-free and support a more sustainable future.
Competitive Shipping Options: The logistics of getting your purchases home have become increasingly sophisticated. Retailers are likely to offer competitive shipping options, including fast delivery and even same-day or next-day shipping in select areas. This makes it more convenient than ever to get your hands on your discounted treasures. It is important to note however, dispatch times may be extended due to the increase in orders for some brands.
Hybrid Shopping Experiences: Some stores may bridge the gap between online and in-person shopping by offering "buy online, pick up in-store" options. This allows you to enjoy the convenience of online shopping while avoiding shipping fees and delays.
Enhanced Mobile Apps: Retailers are continually improving their mobile apps, making it easier for shoppers to browse, compare, and make purchases on the go. Some may even offer exclusive app-only BF and Cyber Monday deals, incentivising customers to use their mobile platforms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Black Friday 2023 promises to be an exhilarating shopping event that will offer extraordinary deals and an opportunity to make significant progress on your holiday shopping. This day is not just about shopping; it's about traditions, shared excitement, and the hunt for unbeatable savings. As we've delved into its date and history, it's clear that this shopping event has deep roots and has transcended its origins to become a global phenomenon, uniting people across borders and cultures in their quest for great deals and a festive jumpstart to the holiday season.
To make the most of this shopping event in 2023, meticulous planning is essential. Creating a shopping list, setting a budget, and staying updated on deals through email newsletters and social media can help you maximise your savings. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a first-time shopper, this event caters to all, offering not only great discounts but also unforgettable experiences and a sense of shared enthusiasm.
So, mark your calendar, prepare your shopping list, and get ready for the biggest sale of the year. Remember it is not just a day on the calendar; it's an event that brings people together in their pursuit of unbeatable deals and a joyful kickstart to the holiday season.