Milwaukee, Wis. – Black Friday, traditionally the single busiest shopping day of the year, arrives a little earlier this year, with many stores already advertising Black Friday prices. Instead of setting an alarm to brave crowds for deeply discounted items, dedicated shoppers are expected to look for deals online, similar to last year, if they haven’t already finished their holiday shopping. Changes, such as shipping delays, hiring challenges, and microchip shortages, are impacting how people will shop. Retail experts predict higher-than-normal store crowds and increased spending percentages on gifts, decorations, and other holiday-related items.
If you do decide to shop in person on Black Friday, the Better Business Bureau offers these tips to make your shopping experience productive (and maybe even enjoyable):
- Make the most of Black Friday deals. Start with a list of items and use sale flyers and promotions to determine which store has the best price. Set a budget and stick with it before heading out.
- Read the fine print. Some retailers may offer an additional percentage off the purchase but could exclude certain deals or items such as “doorbusters.” Watch for companies boasting a high percentage off; the item may be “75% off,” but the original price could be inflated. Carefully check the price tags, terms, and conditions. Research online using a secure Wi-Fi connection to see if competitors have the item at a better price.
- Plan out the excursion. Sometimes, waiting to see what deals will be offered on Black Friday is unnecessary. Retailers often release Black Friday flyers weeks ahead so consumers can plan their shopping spree. Make a map of the stores to visit and the items at which store. Some retailers only honor sale ads during a certain time frame or on certain days and could limit the amount of deeply discounted items available for purchase.
- Sign up for email alerts. Many stores release their best Black Friday deals and exclusive coupons to people who have subscribed to their emails. Sign up before the holiday season, then unsubscribe afterward if needed.
- Do your research. Read product reviews on extremely discounted items. It could be a cheaper model or brand advertised and not what was expected. Check BBB.org’s business profiles of the stores and read what other customers have experienced.
- Know the return policy and warranty information. Pass any information about returns, exchanges, repairs, and warranties to the person using the item. Gift receipts are an easy way for recipients to return or exchange a gift if it’s not just right, but make sure the item can be returned before purchasing.
- Look for the BBB Seal. It’s the Sign of a Better Business. Shop with confidence this Black Friday by choosing businesses that prioritize trust and ethics in the marketplace. Shop with confidence and peace of mind this holiday season, avoid scams, and make smart purchase decisions.
For more information
Visit BBB.org to look up a business, file a complaint, write a customer review, report a scam, read tips, follow us on social media, and more!
Report bad ads to BBB AdTruth.
View the online version
For more information or further inquiries, contact the Wisconsin BBB at www.bbb.org/wisconsin, 414-847-6000 or 1-800-273-1002. Consumers also can find more information about how to protect themselves from scams by following the Wisconsin BBB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
ABOUT BBB: For more than 100 years, the Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2021, people turned to BBB more than 200 million times for BBB Business Profiles on 6.3 million businesses and Charity Reports on 25,000 charities, all available for free at BBB.org. There are local, independent BBBs across the United States, Canada and Mexico, including BBB Serving Wisconsin which was founded in 1939 and serves the state of Wisconsin.
