Every year, the day after Thanksgiving signals the start of the holiday shopping season. Stores open early, crowds line up for hours, and online deals go live at midnight. Don’t you just love it? We’ll share how Black Friday went from a day of disorder to one of retail domination, plus, how you can leverage the day to reap the benefits for your business.

Why Is It Called Black Friday?

The term “Black Friday” was coined in Philadelphia during the 1950s. Police officers used it to describe the mayhem in the city as throngs of shoppers rushed downtown ahead of the annual Army-Navy football game. Traffic jams clogged the streets, and stores were packed with bargain-hunters taking advantage of post-Thanksgiving sales. The scene was so chaotic that police dreaded working that day. 

Retailers weren’t initially thrilled with the name, either. “Black” often carried negative connotations, like financial crises. However, when they leaned into it, marketing gold was born.

Turning “Black” Into Gold

By the 1980s, businesses had redefined Black Friday. The term took on a new meaning as the year’s turning point, when stores went from being “in the red” (operating at a loss) to “in the black” (turning a profit). This, combined with aggressive marketing campaigns, helped cement Black Friday as the biggest shopping day of the year. Retailers began offering deep discounts to attract customers, and we love those doorbusters and early-morning openings.

What About Cyber Monday?

As e-commerce gained popularity, Black Friday found a partner in Cyber Monday. First introduced in 2005, it catered to online shoppers looking for deals after the Thanksgiving weekend. The success of Cyber Monday has since allowed many businesses to offer deals throughout the entire week. Many retailers have even expanded their sales to include the entire month of November. Add in online shopping with the convenience of mobile apps, and the sales only continue.

The Global Spread of Black Friday

What started as an American tradition has grown into a global phenomenon. Countries like Canada, the UK, and even Australia have adopted Black Friday sales, adapting the concept to their own markets. In some cases, the idea has been reimagined entirely. For example, in China, Singles’ Day (11/11) has become a massive shopping event, surpassing Cyber Monday sales by four times in 2022.

What Are the Best Strategies for Black Friday Success?

Black Friday is a prime opportunity to connect with your customers and bring in those sales. If you haven’t already thought about your marketing goals for Black Friday, here are some strategies that will help you stand out:

1. Use Flash Sales. These will drive traffic to your store or website and motivate shoppers to act quickly. For example, “40% off all products until 10 AM” or “Buy one, get one free from 2–5 PM” can up the ante for your buyer.
2. Offer Free Shipping. This is a major factor in online purchase decisions. Free shipping reduces hesitation at checkout. During Black Friday, consider offering free shipping as a standalone deal or bundling it with a minimum purchase threshold, such as “Free shipping on orders over $50.” 
3. Curbside Pickup. Pickup is perfect for customers who want to avoid the crowds. Highlight the convenience in your promotions by emphasizing speed and efficiency. Customers can shop online, select their items, and pick them up without leaving their cars!
4. Don’t Forget Email Marketing. Keep  your customers updated on your Black Friday deals and promotions by sending out targeted email campaigns. Those who are already subscribed to your email list, consider giving them early access to your offers.
5. Create a Sense of Community. Use your social media platforms to create a sense of community around your brand and Black Friday deals. Encourage customers to share their purchases and experiences with others, creating a buzz and more potential sales for your business.

What Shoppers Want on Black Friday 

For shoppers, Black Friday is their chance to score great deals and prepare for the holiday season. For you, it’s an opportunity to stand out as a year-round choice. For us, it’s a chance to help you shine. Want more insights into holiday marketing strategies? Just fill out the form below and we can help your business thrive this season!