Date: Black Friday 2024 falls on Friday, November 29, marking the official kickoff of the holiday shopping season in the United States. While traditionally a major event for brick-and-mortar retailers, the rise of e-commerce has transformed the day into a multi-channel shopping extravaganza, with deals starting even before Black Friday.
Overview of Trends
Black Friday is no longer confined to a single day. In recent years, many retailers have adopted the practice of launching pre-Black Friday deals days or even weeks in advance, and this trend is expected to continue in 2024. With fierce competition between brick-and-mortar stores and online platforms, consumers are anticipating significant price drops across various product categories.
Major retail players, such as Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy, are set to dominate the market, offering steep discounts across electronics, home appliances, fashion, and more. However, supermarkets, which are typically known for offering food and household essentials, are also increasingly leveraging Black Friday to attract shoppers.
Supermarket Deals and Promotions
Black Friday 2024 will witness a surge in supermarket promotions, with leading chains like Walmart, Kroger, Aldi, Costco, and Target joining the frenzy. They are offering a mix of in-store and online deals designed to capture the attention of both holiday shoppers and those preparing for large holiday meals. Here’s a preview of what you can expect:
Walmart
- Electronics & Home Appliances: Deep discounts on smart TVs, kitchen appliances, and smart home devices. Walmart will likely offer early access to deals through its app and Walmart+ members.
- Groceries: With inflation concerns, shoppers can expect significant savings on everyday items such as canned goods, snacks, and bulk beverages, making it easier to stock up for holiday festivities.
- Toys & Gifts: Walmart will offer a “holiday gifts under $50” section, featuring popular toys, clothing, and home goods at competitive prices.
Target
- Frozen Foods & Beverages: Target is expected to offer Buy One, Get One Free (BOGO) deals on frozen foods, snacks, and drinks, aiming at families planning holiday meals and parties.
- Electronics: Expect tech deals on popular items such as smartwatches, tablets, and gaming consoles. Target Circle members are also likely to receive additional discounts and early access.
Costco
- Bulk Deals: Known for bulk purchasing, Costco’s Black Friday offers may include discounts on popular grocery items such as gourmet cheeses, premium meat cuts, and holiday beverages.
- Home Essentials: Expect markdowns on kitchen gadgets, home storage, and cleaning products, with a focus on making holiday prep easier.
Kroger
- Meal Kits & Prepared Foods: With many consumers looking for convenience, Kroger is expected to offer discounts on meal kits and ready-to-eat holiday meals, perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Health & Wellness: Promotions on vitamins, supplements, and natural foods may also be part of Kroger’s strategy to cater to the growing wellness-conscious shopper base.
Aldi
- Wine & Spirits: Aldi, known for its affordable and award-winning wine selection, will likely offer special promotions on seasonal wines, beer, and spirits.
- Holiday Essentials: Aldi is expected to promote budget-friendly prices on festive treats like chocolates, desserts, and European-inspired delicacies.
Special Promotions
Several retailers are anticipated to offer doorbuster deals, which are time-sensitive and available in limited quantities. Some of the promotions to watch for:
- Amazon Prime Early Access: Amazon’s Black Friday deals will likely start early, possibly during Thanksgiving week, offering Prime members exclusive access to early-bird discounts across electronics, home goods, and groceries.
- Loyalty Program Perks: Supermarkets are increasingly using loyalty programs to entice repeat customers. Members of programs like Target Circle, Kroger Plus, and Walmart+ will benefit from exclusive discounts, cashback offers, and early access to Black Friday deals.
Black Friday 2024 in the USA is shaping up to be a hybrid shopping event, blending online convenience with in-store excitement. Supermarkets will play a more prominent role, offering deals not only on tech and household goods but also groceries and essentials. With inflationary pressures likely influencing shopping behaviour, consumers are expected to focus on value-oriented deals, making supermarket promotions particularly attractive.
As retailers aim to capture the holiday market, shoppers can look forward to generous discounts, bundle offers, and loyalty rewards across the board. Whether stocking up for holiday feasts or seeking out gift bargains, Black Friday 2024 is poised to deliver exceptional value.