Black Friday 2024: When it starts and everything you need to know to get the best deals

November 8, 2024, 1:57 p.m

It’s that time of year again, Black Friday is just around the corner.

Black Friday deals have already started to appear across major UK retailers – here’s everything you need to know about the event and how to get the best deals.

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping dates of the year, with thousands of brands launching special sales to mark the occasion.

It marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping season.

Although it started as a one-day event, it has now spread to a month of offers for customers.

Where did Black Friday come from?

Black Friday started in the United States and marked the first Friday after Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is a federal holiday based on a harvest festival that has been celebrated since the 17th century.

Most employees and schools have the celebration off as well as the following Friday, which means they get a four-day weekend that opens up opportunities for more shopping.

When is Black Friday 2024?

Black Friday 2024 is on November 29, but deals have already begun in the lead up to the big day.

John Lewis, Argos and Boots are among the brands that have already kicked off their sales.

Most of the deals end at midnight on Cyber ​​Monday, which was originally when online deals began.

Which brands participate in Black Friday?

Major retailers including Amazon and John Lewis have launched sales this month to mark Black Friday.

Several fashion brands have also started Black Friday sales across stores and online, including New Look and ASOS.

Sephora UK and Boots are among the beauty brands also taking part.

Why is it called Black Friday?

The event originally got its name because of the congestion created by shoppers.

It’s also the day stores “move into the black” and have enough money to cover costs after being in the red.

How to get the best Black Friday deals

Research and know what you want to buy – Planning ahead what you want from the deals and researching the best items will help you get the most out of Black Friday.

Avoid impulse buying – Impulse buying can result in you getting less benefit from the offers and spending more than intended. Make a list of what you want to buy and stick to it.

Check recommended price – Keep an eye on product prices leading up to the sale so you know which discounts are the best on Black Friday.

Compare prices across different retailers – Thousands of brands are participating in the shopping event, so comparing prices between locations can ensure you get the cheapest price and save even more.

Pay attention to unusual brands – Despite offers coming in from all types of dealers, you should be aware of lesser known brands as they may not always be as reliable or equal in quality.

Create online accounts before the sale begins – Popular products can sell out quickly when offers drop. Storing your information in an account will help secure the items with a faster payment.

Check the return policy – Buying online allows you to change your mind and claim a full refund within 14 days of delivery.

Many stores also offer extended returns up until Christmas.