Black Friday in October?
The Race for Early Holiday Shoppers Is On
As the holiday season approaches, retailers aren’t waiting for Black Friday to kick off their big sales. Instead, they’re rolling out deals in October to capture early shoppers, setting the stage for fierce competition. The last three months of the year are crucial for retailers, not just to win over consumers but also to secure seasonal workers. With inflation concerns and economic uncertainty lingering, retailers are getting creative.
Early Holiday Sales Begin
Retailers like Target, Amazon, and Best Buy are leading the charge with early promotions designed to attract budget-conscious shoppers. According to a Bankrate report, 33% of consumers plan to spend less this holiday season compared to 2023, signaling a shift towards frugality.
Here’s a breakdown of the early sales happening this October:
Target is offering “Target Circle Week” from October 6-12.
Amazon is launching its “Prime Early Access Sale” on October 11-12.
Best Buy is hosting multiple themed sales, including the "Prep for the Holidays" sale on October 21 and a gaming sale on October 25. They’re also holding an Apple Trade-Up event through October 13, offering additional discounts for Plus and Total members.
These early deals give shoppers a chance to save, but they also reflect the competitive landscape retailers face as they try to get a piece of the holiday shopping pie.
Why Shop in October?
Shopping in October has its perks. You’ll beat the rush, avoid shipping delays, and can relax knowing your holiday list is checked off early. But if you’re planning to shop ahead of time, make sure to save your receipts. Many retailers offer price adjustments if an item you buy now drops in price later. Also double-check the store’s return policy to ensure gifts bought in October can still be returned after Christmas. Nothing is worse than realizing you can’t return something on December 26.
While the sales might be tempting, remember that you don’t need to buy something just because it’s discounted. Stay savvy with your holiday shopping, and you can take advantage of the early deals without feeling the pressure of overspending later.