Shopping extravaganza has arrived: Black Friday, extended to Black November.
Black Friday, once a one-day shopping extravaganza, has evolved in Germany, stretching into a whole month of discounts and deals - a phenomenon known as Black November. This extended shopping event reflects a broader trend towards longer promotional periods, often spanning the entire month of November.
History and Context of Black November in Germany
Originally imported from the U.S., Black Friday typically marks the start of the Christmas shopping season, occurring the day after Thanksgiving. In Germany, the popularity and spending associated with Black Friday have grown continuously, reaching a projected €5.7 billion euros in sales in 2023 alone.
The extension to Black November is inspired by patterns seen in other European countries, such as the Netherlands, where sales begin well before the traditional Black Friday date, creating a month-long promotional period. This shift is a response to consumer demand for better deals and more flexible shopping times.
Unlike the somber historical "Black November" related to Nazi-era persecution or military events, the term here refers purely to the commercial phenomenon.
Impact of Black November in Germany
The extended period of discounts has contributed to significant growth in consumer spending in November, generating billions of euros and benefiting both online and brick-and-mortar stores. German shoppers use Black November to buy gifts, spread out their holiday spending, and enjoy the excitement of deals. The trend has also pushed retailers to start promotions earlier, providing consumers with more options and competitive pricing.
How Consumers Can Effectively Take Advantage of Deals During Black November
- Plan Ahead: Since Black November covers a longer period than just Black Friday, shoppers should monitor promotions early and frequently throughout November as retailers progressively release deals.
- Compare Prices: Use price comparison tools and tracking websites to ensure that discounts are genuine and better than regular prices.
- Focus on Gifts and Essentials: Many consumers prioritize buying gifts, so make lists early to catch the best deals on desired items before stocks run out.
- Leverage Online and Offline Sales: Both channels participate intensively, so check local stores and online platforms for exclusive deals.
- Watch for Special Promotions: Retailers may offer flash sales, bundles, or extended warranties during the event; staying subscribed to newsletters or alert services can unlock these.
In summary, Black November in Germany is a modern extension of Black Friday shopping, designed to maximise consumer engagement and retail revenues through a prolonged period of discounts. Consumers benefit by carefully tracking deals over the month and planning purchases accordingly to capitalise on the expanded sales window. Early planning and preparation, such as creating a shopping list and identifying products, can help make the most of Black November deals. Black November in Germany offers consumers a wealth of deals and special promotions throughout the month of November.
Currently, bargain hunters can get up to 70% off at Lidl with Lidl discount codes during the Supersale. Participation in loyalty programs and newsletter subscriptions can provide access to exclusive deals and early access to Black November deals for members. Use of vouchers and discount codes can lead to additional savings beyond regular discounts during Black November.
Black November has transformed the otherwise dreary month into an exciting shopping month in Germany, offering consumers significant price reductions and special offers. Black Friday, originally an American shopping event, has become familiar in Germany. The concept of Black November was influenced by global shopping traditions, such as China's Singles Day (11.11). In times of inflation and rising living costs, Black November offers an opportunity for consumers to save money on their shopping.
Following retailers on social media and subscribing to their notifications can help stay informed about short-term offers and flash sales during Black November. Singles Day, originally a Chinese shopping event, has evolved into a massive online shopping event backed by Alibaba and other retailers. As the holiday season approaches, Black November provides a paradise for bargain hunters to get a head start on holiday shopping or treat themselves to discounted products.
- The expansion of Black Friday in Germany, now known as Black November, is a month-long shopping event offering home-and-garden, lifestyle, and other deals-and-discounts, which mirrors a broader trend towards prolonged promotional periods.
- During Black November, savvy shoppers can take advantage of these extended discounts by planning ahead, comparing prices, focusing on gifts and essentials, and leveraging both online and offline sales to maximize their savings.
