This year has been different in so many ways so its unsurprising that this year’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday were different as well.
The first difference was that the offers started way earlier than normal, shops were grabbing our attention much sooner in an attempt to get shoppers back through the door after months of being closed and/or restricted. Perfectly understandable given the low sales that they have experienced earlier in the year.
The second difference was the huge increase in online shopping. Whilst online shopping has been gradually increasing year on year, this year it took off with over 50% of purchasing happening online. Again, perfectly understandable given the pandemic we find ourselves in.
Not all stores have been able to open for this event so in those cases, they would have only been able to accept online orders – whether they are online orders for delivery or for click and collect (in some areas). With our retail stores not at 100% then its really difficult to say whether this year was better or worse than last year.
And finally, the third difference is the simple fact that for many stores their Black Friday and Cyber Monday offers are still running. Blurring the line between sales generated from the Black Friday and Cyber Monday event with the general pre-Christmas sales.
PWC have as always done some brilliant analysis on the effect of Coronavirus on Black Friday and Cyber Monday – you can view it for yourself here: www.pwc.co.uk
However you have spent Black Friday and Cyber Monday this year then ensure that you stay safe. If you have a little more shopping to do before the big day then remember to shop local – our local stores need all the support they can get at this tricky time.
All comments regarding Coronavirus (Covid-19) and restrictions on business operating in the UK are correct at the time the blog was posted. Please refer to current restrictions in your area to guide you in your response to Coronavirus.
Published: 7th Dec 2020