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Over the years, the day after Thanksgiving has evolved into a global phenomenon, with retailers offering massive discounts across all product categories. Here’s a deep dive into what Black Friday sales typically offer, how major U.S. brands like Amazon and Apple participate, and some of the biggest discounts in Black Friday history.

Black Friday is well known as the day when retailers slash prices to kick off the holiday shopping season and clear out stock ahead of the new year
Black Friday is well known as the day when retailers slash prices to kick off the holiday shopping season and clear out stock ahead of the new year

The Evolution of Black Friday Sales

Black Friday originated in the U.S. during the 1950s as the kickoff to the holiday shopping season. By the 2000s, it had grown into the most anticipated shopping day of the year, featuring extended store hours and doorbuster deals. In recent years, the rise of e-commerce has shifted much of the focus online, with "Cyber Monday" extending the sales frenzy into the following week.

Trends in Recent Years:

  • Earlier Deals: Retailers now begin their Black Friday promotions weeks in advance, sometimes as early as late October.
  • Online Dominance: Major brands prioritize online sales, offering exclusive digital deals and free shipping to compete with in-store promotions.
  • Hybrid Shopping: Many stores combine in-store pickups with online discounts to attract both physical and digital shoppers.

What to Expect from Major Retailers in 2024

1. Amazon

Amazon dominates Black Friday every year with deals spanning every category, from tech gadgets to kitchen appliances.

  • Popular Deals:

    Amazon’s “Lightning Deals” and “Deal of the Day” events are highly sought after, offering steep discounts on limited quantities of products. Prime members often receive early access to these deals.

    Common categories include smart home devices (Echo, Ring), Amazon-branded products (Kindle, Fire TV), and big-name brands like Samsung, Sony, and Apple.

  • Past Highlights:

    • Echo Dot: Often reduced from $49.99 to as low as $19.99.
    • Smart TVs: Discounts of up to 50% on popular brands.
    • Laptops and Tablets: Savings of $200–$500 on high-end models.

2. Apple

Apple is known for its premium pricing, but Black Friday provides a rare chance to snag their products at a discount.

  • Typical Deals:

    Apple often avoids direct discounts on their own website but offers incentives such as gift cards with certain purchases. However, authorized resellers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart frequently provide significant markdowns.

  • What’s Likely in 2024:

    • AirPods: Expect discounts of $30–$50.
    • iPads: Savings of up to $100 on base models and more on Pro versions.
    • MacBooks: Price drops of $200–$300 at retailers like Amazon or Best Buy.
    • Apple Watch: Discounts of 10–20% on popular models.

3. Walmart

Walmart remains a Black Friday giant with discounts on virtually every product category, from groceries to electronics.

  • Notable Offers:

    • Home appliances like vacuums, blenders, and Instant Pots often see price cuts of 30–50%.
    • Gaming consoles, including PlayStation and Xbox, are hot-ticket items, sometimes bundled with games or accessories at reduced rates.
  • Historical Deals:

    • Televisions: 55-inch 4K TVs for under $300.
    • Laptops: Chromebooks as low as $99.

4. Target

Target rivals Walmart with a focus on family-oriented deals, offering sales on toys, home goods, and personal electronics.

  • Past Deals:
    • Dyson vacuums at $100 off.
    • Apple AirPods at prices similar to Amazon’s discounts.
    • Board games and toys at buy-one-get-one-50%-off deals.
Black Friday 2024 in US: What to Expect from Amazon, Apple, and Other Major U.S. Retailers

Biggest Black Friday Discounts of All Time

Over the years, Black Friday has delivered some jaw-dropping discounts:

  1. Smartphones: Samsung Galaxy phones have been discounted by up to 50%, with trade-in offers making the deals even sweeter.
  2. Gaming Consoles: Bundles like the Nintendo Switch with Mario Kart for $299 were among the best sellers.
  3. Luxury TVs: LG OLED TVs, originally priced at $1,800, were offered for as low as $999.
  4. High-End Laptops: MacBook Air discounts have reached $300 at retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.
  5. Fashion: Designer brands like Michael Kors and Coach often slash prices by 50% or more.

Tips for Shopping Black Friday 2024

  1. Start Early: Many deals begin in early November. Sign up for retailer newsletters to stay updated.
  2. Use Price Trackers: Websites like CamelCamelCamel help track Amazon’s historical prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
  3. Shop Online: Avoid the crowds by focusing on online deals, many of which offer free shipping.
  4. Set a Budget: Black Friday can be overwhelming, so decide in advance what you’re willing to spend.
  5. Compare Prices: Use apps like Honey or RetailMeNot to find and apply discount codes automatically.

What Makes Black Friday 2024 Different?

This year, retailers may focus more on personalized shopping experiences and sustainability. Expect deals tailored to your preferences based on shopping history and more options for eco-friendly products.

Additionally, as inflation affects consumer spending, retailers might prioritize value-for-money bundles over steep individual discounts. Shoppers should also look out for deals that extend into Cyber Monday for added savings opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Black Friday 2024 is shaping up to be another thrilling shopping event with significant deals from major players like Amazon, Apple, Walmart, and Target. Whether you're hunting for the latest tech gadgets, upgrading your home appliances, or simply stocking up on holiday gifts, the key is to plan ahead and shop smart.

Happy deal-hunting, and may your Black Friday be full of savings and satisfaction!

How To Find The Best Early Black Friday Deals in the UK? How To Find The Best Early Black Friday Deals in the UK?
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