UK shoppers are expected to spend £6.7 billion across Black Friday and Cyber Monday this year, with nearly half admitting they have delayed purchases by two months or more to secure bargains, according to new research commissioned by PayPal.
The study, which surveyed 2,000 Brits, found that 48% of consumers have intentionally held off buying a particular item for two months or longer in the run-up to the sales. This calculated approach to festive spending reflects a broader trend of shoppers deferring major purchases to take advantage of discounts.
Top Wish List Categories
Beauty and fragrance products lead consumers' wish lists, with 44% hoping to buy them during the sales. Fashion and trainers follow at 39%, while toys are third at 38%. Christmas decorations (30%) and holiday bookings (27%) also feature prominently.
Larger purchases such as mobile phones (22%), laptops or tablets (20%), games consoles (20%) and smartwatches (20%) are also on shoppers' lists. Nearly half (45%) of Brits plan to shop the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales this year.
Payment Methods and Flexibility
As households balance festive spending with ongoing cost pressures, many are turning to flexible payment options. While debit cards remain the most popular choice for Black Friday purchases (30%), 12% plan to use digital wallets such as PayPal, and almost one in ten (9%) intend to use Buy Now, Pay Later services from any provider.
To highlight the purchases fuelling Black Friday spending, PayPal has compiled a 'Black Friday Basket' showcasing some of the most sought-after items shoppers hope to snap up during the sales. The basket reflects how the event has evolved into a carefully planned opportunity to stretch Christmas budgets further.
Consumer Outlook
Dave Jones, Head of UK Consumer at PayPal, said: "Black Friday has increasingly become one of the biggest moments in the festive shopping calendar as people look for ways to make their money go further."
"Payment flexibility is becoming just as important as finding the right deals and some are considering a range of options, including Buy Now, Pay Later, alongside traditional payment methods," he added. "Many shoppers want three things - flexibility, value and control. They're planning ahead and waiting for discounts on the items they want and choosing payment options that fit their budget."
Whether using a digital wallet, paying upfront or spreading the cost over time, consumers are taking a more deliberate approach to how they shop during the festive season.
