The Hidden Truth About Black Friday
Black Friday is one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year, with promises of massive discounts and once-a-year deals. But how many of us know to spot fake Black Friday deals? Research by This Is Money reveals that a large portion of Black Friday discounts are either exaggerated or misleading.
Retailers often inflate prices before discounting them or advertise “exclusive” deals that can be found year-round. This guide will arm you with everything you need to shop smart, spot fake Black Friday deals, and maximise your savings.
Why do retailers use fake Black Friday deals?
Retailers capitalise on Black Friday hype to drive sales. Here’s why:
- Psychological Triggers: Phrases like “limited time” or “only 2 left” create urgency, encouraging impulse purchases.
- Higher Profit Margins: By marking up the price before offering a “discount,” retailers maintain profitability.
- Clearing Old Stock: Many Black Friday deals feature outdated models or last season’s products disguised as new.
Table: Common Retail Tactics on Black Friday
| Tactic | How It Works | How to Spot It |
|---|---|---|
| Inflated Original Prices | Raising prices weeks before Black Friday, then applying a “discount.” | Use price tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel. |
| Limited Stock Alerts | Messages like “Only 2 left” to create urgency. | Check if the product is consistently “low stock.” |
| Bundles That Aren’t Savings | Combining multiple products but charging more than individual prices. | Calculate the cost of each item separately. |
| Old Stock Marketed as New | Selling outdated tech or fashion as if it’s the latest model. | Research model release dates. |
How to Spot a Real Black Friday Deal
Avoid being duped by keeping these strategies in mind:
1. Research Historical Prices
The price tag doesn’t always reflect savings. Retailers may have listed the product at the same “discounted” price months before Black Friday.
- Tools to Use:
- CamelCamelCamel: Tracks Amazon price history.
- PriceSpy: Compares prices across UK retailers.
2. Focus on Percentage Savings
Genuine Black Friday deals typically offer 30%–50% discounts or more, especially on high-ticket items like electronics or appliances. Anything less may not be a true deal.
3. Beware of Bundles
Bundled deals often include items you don’t need. Always calculate the total cost of individual items to ensure you’re getting value.
Black Friday Shopping Tips for 2024
Here’s how you can make the most of Black Friday without falling for fake deals:
1. Create a Shopping List
Know what you want to buy before the sales begin. This prevents impulse purchases and keeps you focused.
2. Sign Up for Newsletters
Retailers like Amazon, Argos, and Currys often offer early access to Black Friday deals via email. This gives you a head start.
3. Use Cashback and Discount Apps
Combine deals with cashback apps for additional savings.
- TopCashback: Earn cashback on online purchases.
- Honey finds and applies promo codes automatically.
Best Black Friday Categories to Shop in 2024
While some categories are prone to fake deals, others consistently offer genuine savings. Here’s where you’re likely to find value:
| Category | Genuine Discount Potential | Tips for Spotting Real Deals |
|---|---|---|
| Tech & Gadgets | Up to 50% off | Focus on new models released earlier in the year, not outdated tech. |
| Home Appliances | 30%-40% off | Compare prices at Currys, AO.com, and John Lewis for competitive deals. |
| Fashion | 20%-50% off | Look for seasonal discounts at New Look, ASOS, and Zara. |
| Toys & Games | Up to 40% off | Early discounts on Christmas gifts from Amazon and Smyths. |
Real Examples of Misleading Black Friday Deals
Let’s look at some real-life examples to understand how fake deals operate:
1. Inflated Discounts
- Example: A laptop listed as “50% off” at £500 may have been available for the same price three months earlier.
- Lesson: Use price trackers to verify whether the discount is genuine.
2. “Exclusive” Bundles
- Example: A gaming console bundled with accessories at £300 might cost less if you buy the items separately.
- Lesson: Always calculate the cost of each item.
3. Outdated Models
- Example: A smartphone advertised as a “new release” might be a previous-generation model no longer in demand.
- Lesson: Research the product’s release date.
How to Prepare for Black Friday
Proper preparation is key to avoiding scams and maximising savings.
1. Compare Prices Beforehand
Start monitoring prices at least 3-4 weeks before Black Friday. This helps you identify genuine discounts.
2. Check Return Policies
Ensure the retailer offers a clear and reasonable return policy. Avoid stores with “final sale” deals.
3. Set a Budget
Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it. Use budgeting apps like YNAB or Money Dashboard to plan.
FAQs About Black Friday Deals
1. Are Black Friday discounts real?
Not always. Many discounts are exaggerated or based on inflated original prices. Research and price tracking can help you find genuine deals.
2. What are the best items to buy on Black Friday?
Electronics, home appliances, and seasonal clothing often have the best discounts. Avoid fresh trends or luxury items unless heavily discounted.
3. How can I avoid falling for fake deals?
- Use price comparison tools.
- Research historical prices.
- Focus on trusted retailers with clear policies.
4. Is Cyber Monday better than Black Friday?
Cyber Monday often features similar deals, especially for electronics and tech. However, it’s an excellent opportunity to find discounts on items you missed during Black Friday.
Black Friday Tools for Savvy Shoppers
| Tool | Purpose | Website/App |
|---|---|---|
| CamelCamelCamel | Tracks historical prices on Amazon. | www.camelcamelcamel.com |
| PriceSpy | Compares prices across UK retailers. | www.pricespy.co.uk |
| Honey | Finds and applies promo codes. | www.joinhoney.com |
| VoucherCodes | Provides exclusive UK discount codes. | www.vouchercodes.co.uk |
Posts other people are reading
- Top Cashback Apps for UK Shoppers
- How to Save Money on Groceries
- The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Budgeting
Useful links
Conclusion: Be a Smart Black Friday Shopper
Black Friday is a fantastic opportunity to save money—if you know how to spot the real deals. By understanding retailer tactics, using price tracking tools, and shopping with a clear plan, you can avoid the fake discounts and make the most of the genuine savings.
Don’t let marketing gimmicks fool you—shop smarter this Black Friday and stretch your budget further!
For more money-saving tips, visit Money Savvy UK. Share your Black Friday shopping experiences in the comments below!
