Where Did Black Friday Originate From?
Black Friday is a shopaholic’s dream come true. Eyeing that $300 coat? You can snag it for half off on Black Friday. Been saving up for a new laptop? Hold off until the big day—you might just get it for less than half the price. But what exactly is Black Friday, and where did it all begin?
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Black Friday, its significance, and why it has become such an important day for both shoppers and retailers alike.
What Is Black Friday?
Black Friday is one of the busiest shopping days of the year, typically occurring the day after Thanksgiving. It’s a long-standing tradition in the United States where retailers offer huge sales, both in-store and online, drawing in crowds of eager shoppers.
The term “Black Friday” has come to symbolize a positive boost in sales, and for many retailers, it can account for up to 20% of their yearly revenue. For shoppers, it’s a day of deals, bargains, and crossing items off their holiday gift lists.
Where Did Black Friday Originate?
Contrary to popular belief, Black Friday did not originally refer to a financial boost for businesses putting them “in the black” (profitable) after a year of being “in the red” (financial loss). While this explanation is often touted, the real origin story is quite different.
The term “Black Friday” was first used by police officers in Philadelphia during the 1960s. They used it to describe the chaos that ensued on the day after Thanksgiving, when hordes of tourists flocked to the city for holiday shopping and the Army-Navy football game. The influx of people created traffic jams, accidents, and a general sense of disorder, making the day a stressful one for law enforcement. Over time, the term spread, and businesses began to associate it with the busy shopping day we know today.
Why Is Black Friday Important?
For consumers, Black Friday is all about the deals. It’s the perfect time to buy big-ticket items like electronics, clothing, and holiday gifts at significantly reduced prices. The proximity to the holiday season makes it a key opportunity for early gift shopping, with many shoppers saving up specifically for this day.
For retailers, Black Friday is crucial. It marks the start of the holiday shopping season, often leading to a surge in sales that can make or break their financial year. Retailers heavily promote their Black Friday deals, using it as both a sales driver and a form of advertising, drawing attention to their brands.
It’s no surprise that Black Friday has evolved into one of the biggest shopping days in the United States. In fact, some retailers now extend their sales throughout the weekend, leading into Cyber Monday—another major day for online deals.
The Takeaway
Black Friday is a win-win for both shoppers and retailers. For shoppers, it’s a chance to score major discounts and save money on everything from electronics to holiday gifts. For retailers, it’s a day of boosted profits and an opportunity to attract a massive influx of customers.
Whether you’re a savvy shopper hunting for deals or a retailer prepping for the busiest day of the year, Black Friday is a day that’s become synonymous with shopping frenzy and sales. So, mark your calendar, make a plan, and get ready to take advantage of all the savings this year.
