Black Friday has arrived in the UK, with British consumers projected to spend a staggering nearly £14 billion during the 2025 sales event. Research from Omnisend indicates that a third of all shoppers plan to spend more than they did last year, but amidst the enticing discounts, financial caution remains paramount.
Strategic Shopping: Maximising Savings and Security
Shoppers are advised to actively seek out additional discounts beyond the advertised prices. This can be achieved by utilising cashback websites and searching for extra voucher codes, which can significantly amplify savings. For those targeting specific retailers, downloading the company's app or signing up for their newsletter can unlock exclusive rewards and offers.
However, vigilance is crucial. Sarah Jane Outten, a shopping expert at MyVoucherCodes, warns against buying from unfamiliar people or websites without prior research. "Mega cheap deals are everywhere on Black Friday, but be cautious about deals on brands you’re not overly familiar with," she states. She recommends carefully checking warranty conditions on electronic goods and using independent review websites to vet retailers.
The threat of cloned websites, designed by scammers to mimic popular retailers, makes it essential to double-check a site's authenticity, even if it seems legitimate.
Smart Product and Payment Choices
To distinguish real bargains from marketing ploys, shoppers should investigate a product's price history. Online price trackers such as CamelCamelCamel, PriceRunner, or Keepa for Amazon provide valuable insights into how prices have fluctuated over time.
In the tech sector, consumers should be aware that heavily discounted items may be older models that retailers are trying to clear out. "Be aware that on Black Friday, you may find you are offered heavily-discounted older models," cautions Outten, referring to smartphones, TVs, and tablets.
Financial planning is another critical component. Creating a wish list and a strict budget beforehand helps maintain control. Alex Stedman, a shopping and trends expert at Rakuten, reveals that the average Black Friday shopper has budgeted just over £400. "It’s easy to get carried away... You should ask yourself whether you actually need the item or if you are just buying it as it’s on sale," she advises. If impulse buying beckons, she suggests taking a break and leaving items in an online basket while you reconsider.
Protecting Your Purchase and Your Wallet
Before completing any transaction, it is vital to read the retailer's return policy. Greg Zakowicz, an expert at Omnisend, notes that delivery times are often longer during sales, which could delay refunds. He also emphasises reading product reviews, as items with the largest discounts can sometimes be of lower quality.
Shoppers are protected by UK law, specifically the Consumer Rights Act and the Consumer Contracts Regulations. These ensure goods are fit for purpose, of satisfactory quality, and as described, with online purchases granting more generous cancellation rights. More details can be found on the Which? website.
Choosing the right payment method adds a layer of security. Credit cards offer protection under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act for purchases between £100 and £30,000. Debit card users can seek a chargeback from their bank. Finally, be wary of 'buy now, pay later' services, as multiple agreements can quickly accumulate debt, impacting your budget for months to come.
