Concerns about shortages in the run-up to Black Friday sales

by Lorraine Williamson
Black Friday

MADRID – Black Friday is just around the corner and Spaniards are already drawing up their lists with the biggest sale spectacle of the year in their sights. It is one of the biggest spending days. And on average, every Spaniard will spend €242. 

However, 37% of Spaniards surveyed by the sales and advertising platform Milanuncios now do not rule out the possibility of resorting to second-hand trading to avoid inventory problems. The success of the phenomenon that has come over from the United States will depend on possible shortages in the stores. 

Specifically, 49% of those surveyed say they are concerned about a possible shortage of products. However, it is remarkable, that despite this, 76% of Spaniards indicated they will take advantage of the offers to buy items on these dates. Average spending is predicted to be $242 per person, despite the fact, 47% of them think they will spend less than in previous years. 

Second-hand products 

Alternatively, 37% of those surveyed say they will resort to second-hand trade because of (14% of cases) concerns or (in 22%) to avoid manufacturing new products and contribute to sustainability. 

What to buy, who will buy it, and with what budget? 

When asked which products will be most in-demand, 37% of consumers say they plan to buy clothing and accessories, while 34.2% will opt for technology products. This is followed by toys (16%), books (13%), and decoration (11%). 

Online or physically in the store? 

Will Spaniards start making these purchases more online or physically? At present, 54% of the people surveyed will opt for online purchases. The main reason: 41% of them rate online purchases very positively and 28% say they can find a better price because of this. Comfort, the receipt of shipments at home, is also very important for 24%. 

Cogesa Expats

In terms of gender, men will spend an average of €80 more than women. That is, while they buy products worth an average of €283, women do so for an average of €202. Young people even reserve a higher budget, which rises to €274. 

When is Black Friday? 

Originally, Black Friday falls on the last Friday in November. This year on Friday 26 November. Many shops now start with their offers a few days before this date and also last a few days longer. 

What is the most bought on Black Friday? 

Among the most popular items to buy are technology-related products, followed by beauty and lifestyle products. The most in-demand products are electronic products (mobile phones, computers, tablets, household appliances), beauty (cosmetics), and fashion, where discounts will exceed 20% and in some retailers as much as 50%. 

What is the origin of Black Friday? 

Black Friday is an event with American roots that is gradually gaining weight in Spain. It takes place the day after Thanksgiving Day in the US. Its origins lie in the city of Philadelphia.  There, in the mid-twentieth century, the naval and military academies played an American football game every year after Thanksgiving. This is one of the most-watched sporting events in the country. 

This mass event and the high discounts in the stores formed an explosive mix that caused chaos on the streets of Philadelphia. Increasingly, the event was being referred to as ‘Black Friday’ by police and bus drivers, a dreaded and disastrous day for local public services and authorities. 

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