Black Friday's Evolution: 12 Years of Insights on the Changing Retail Landscape

Black Friday sales have expanded beyond a single day, now spanning the entire month of November, with nearly every deal available online. According to a Black Friday veteran who has been shopping the sales since early childhood and writing about them since 2013, the marketing and chaos can be overwhelming for customers. The veteran, who wishes to remain anonymous, has been writing about Black Friday for 12 years and has offered advice on how to navigate the sales. The veteran notes that the official sales start on Wednesday or Thanksgiving, with some of the best deals beginning on Friday in the early hours. Black Friday falls on November 28, 2025, followed by Cyber Monday on December 1, 2025. The veteran advises shoppers to carefully consider whether a deal is worth their time and money, as nearly every product is available online, eliminating the need to physically visit stores. When asked about the best way to find deals, the veteran replied, "I always recommend creating a list of the items you need or want, and then researching the prices beforehand. This way, you can compare prices and make an informed decision about whether a deal is worth taking advantage of." The veteran also suggests that shoppers set a budget and stick to it, as the temptation to overspend can be high during the holiday season. The expansion of Black Friday sales has led to concerns about consumerism and the impact on society. Some critics argue that the emphasis on shopping and material possessions can perpetuate a culture of excess and waste. However, others see Black Friday as an opportunity for people to find deals on essential items and support local businesses. In recent years, there has been a shift towards online shopping, with many retailers offering exclusive deals and promotions on their websites. This trend is expected to continue, with the veteran noting that "online shopping has become the norm, and it's likely that we'll see even more retailers offering online-only deals in the future." As the holiday season approaches, shoppers are advised to be cautious and do their research before making any purchases. By being informed and setting a budget, shoppers can make the most of the Black Friday sales and avoid overspending. The veteran's advice is to "stay focused, stay calm, and don't get caught up in the hype. Remember, the goal is to find deals that benefit you, not to impulse buy or overspend."