Black Friday, now synonymous with doorbuster deals, huge discounts and the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, has become one of the most anticipated days for consumers and retailers. But where did this tradition begin and how did it evolve into the shopping phenomenon we know today?

Origin of Black Friday

The term “Black Friday” dates back to the 19th century, but its original usage had nothing to do with shopping. In 1869, it referred to the financial crisis caused by the collapse of the American gold market. However, the modern association with shopping began in the 1950s in Philadelphia, where the term was used to describe the chaos following Thanksgiving Day.

During this period, crowds of suburban shoppers and tourists flocked to the city before the annual Army–Navy football game, held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The Philadelphia Police coined the term to describe overworked law enforcement officers dealing with busy traffic jams, crowded streets, and influx of people.

By the 1980s, retailers gave the term a more positive spin and associated it with profits. Traditionally, businesses operate “in the red” (losing money) for most of the year and become “in the black” (profitable) during the holiday season. Black Friday became a symbol of the day when stores became profitable due to increased sales.

How did Black Friday become a shopping tradition?

The transformation of Black Friday into a shopping event happened gradually:

Holiday Shopping Incentives: Retailers begin offering significant discounts to attract shoppers after Thanksgiving, making it an important day for holiday shopping.

marketing strategies: In the 1980s and 1990s, businesses adopted the term “Black Friday” in advertisements and campaigns, framing it as a day of exciting deals and savings.

Early Bird Deals and Doorbusters: Stores began opening early, offering special “doorbuster” deals for the first wave of customers. These tactics created urgency and publicity, leading to long lines and overnight campouts.

Cultural Adoption: The Black Friday shopping frenzy became a cultural event, with families planning their Thanksgiving dinners around early-morning shopping trips. Media coverage of packed stores and competing buyers further increased its popularity.

global expansion: The concept of Black Friday has since spread around the world, with Canada, the UK, India and other countries adopting the tradition, adapting it to their local cultures.

Black Friday in the digital age

The rise of e-commerce has significantly reshaped Black Friday shopping. Online retailers like Amazon offered their own deals, expanding the tradition beyond brick-and-mortar stores. events like Cyber ​​Monday emerged, meeting the needs of online shoppers and extending the shopping frenzy into the next week.

Today, black Friday Black Friday has evolved into a month-long event with pre-Black Friday sales, flash deals and extended discounts throughout November.

Why is Black Friday so popular?

Unbeatable Discounts: Consumers flock to stores and websites to purchase high-value products at deeply discounted prices.

Holiday Preparation: This is the perfect time for shoppers to start shopping for their holiday gifts.

Cultural Enthusiasm: The buzz, both in stores and online, creates a sense of urgency and excitement.

Limited Time Deals: Retailers use time-sensitive offers to create fear of missing out (FOMO), which increases sales.

The other side of Black Friday

While the day is celebrated for its deals, Black Friday also has its critics. Crowded stores, aggressive shoppers and excessive consumerism have led some to question the craze. Initiatives like Buy Nothing Day encourage people to abstain from shopping and consider sustainable consumption.

lasting effect

Black Friday’s transformation from a chaotic day after Thanksgiving in Philadelphia to an international shopping event is a testament to the power of consumer culture and marketing. Whether you’re a bargain hunter or someone browsing online deals, Black Friday has solidified its place as a cornerstone of holiday traditions around the world.