Black Friday During a Pandemic? Here are some Changes You May See for 2020.
Over the years, Black Friday has evolved from being an “American-thing”, to a popular shopping event in Canada as well, and now, it’s a often a month-long affair!
Retailers have started promoting Black Friday deals & sales earlier and earlier every year and keep them going into December. This year will be no different.
With COVID-19 social distancing restrictions in effect in most places, shopping in bustling stores may be a thing of the past. Instead, retailers of all kinds are focusing their efforts online and encouraging shoppers to start early.
As we all work together to stay safe heading into 2021, Canadians will shop differently. Gift differently. Connect differently.
Here are some changes we expect you may see during the holiday shopping season.
Expect Shipping Delays – Shop Early!
In the early parts of the pandemic, Canada Post and other delivery services were over run with parcels and packages. In fact, Canada Post reported parcel delivery in April exceeded that of the previous Christmas! Many people experienced delays in delivery and the delays have continued.
In order to avoid delivery disappointment, get your online purchasing done & get gifts sent to loved ones early. Shipping Deadlines are essentially null and void this year, so the sooner you get things in the mail – the better.
Deals for Days
At one point in time, Black Friday Deals were limited to one-day only. Over the years it has spread out to be a 2 week event for most big box stores but still limiting Door Busters to the big day.
For 2020, expect retailers to spread out those Door Busters over several days. This will limit people rushing into stores for all of the deals at once. We are also anticipating online Pre-Black Friday Sales to start earlier than ever.
To start your Black Friday planning, check out our Black Friday Ad & Flyer Leaks Calendar.
Skip the Stores Entirely & Shop Online
Online shopping has exploded since the start of the pandemic. People that have never shopped online before turned to the internet for their needs.
Now that more people are familiar & comfortable with the process, expect retailers to focus their Black Friday efforts online. To keep shoppers as safe as possible, retailers WANT you to stay home. In-store Door Busters may be done and replaced with online flash sales and deep discounts.
It’s also likely that retailers will offer free shipping options during the Black Friday Weekend shopping rush.
Plus, shopping on your couch in your jammies is way better than standing in long lineups in the cold!
Or Consider Curbside Pick-Up
If you aren’t into online shopping, consider doing curbside pick up or phone orders instead of heading into the store. Most retailers are offering the options now.
Just be prepared for longer wait times on the phone or for pick up.
Social Distancing & Cleaning Measures In Full Effect
Should you choose to head into your local stores, rest assured all safety protocols will be in place.
Store associates will be busy ensuring stores are clean & sanitized throughout the weekend. There will be long lineups to get in & at the cash with limits to how many can enter at a time. It’s likely additional hand sanitizing stations will be provided to make sure everyone stays safe.
Just keep your distance, wear your mask and take your time. It’s probably not going to be as busy as years past, but it’s still the busiest shopping weekend of the year. So be prepared is the best motto!
