Black Friday: The Madness Has Begun

Is it a shock that the economy is still impacting consumer spending?  Despite election talk that the recession is over, I don’t think consumers are buying it.  According to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey and holiday report, “Americans [still] aren’t ready to declare an end to the recession. Unfortunately, there’s been no magical turnaround in consumer sentiment, meaning the trend is still sticking around. According to the survey, 61.7% of holiday shoppers say the economy will impact their spending plans this year.”

That means the man made monster known as Black Friday is already running rampant.  It’s running through the malls, websites, Twitter, Facebook and blogs ravaging everything in its path. After all, if consumers feel skittish about spending, why not lure them in with special sale, fliers, coupons and door busters? Make them feel good about shopping by offering some savings.  Over, and over ,and over again. Black Friday is becoming the opium of the retailer. It  is no longer just one day. The traditional Nov. 27th sale day of the past is no longer the only day for Black Friday savings.  It now begins earlier.  Witness Target’s Christmas in July sale. Let the marketing games begin. 

So, here are some Black Friday deals on my radar that you might be interested.  These come from the Black Friday website at BFAds.net.  BFAds reports that this Saturday and Sunday (Nov 6-7), Walmart is having their Electronics Event  both in-stores and online. I don’t know what will be on sale, but in the past its been games like the xBox.  The PlayStation is another possibility.  Computers too and of course, the darling of Black Friday sales, the big screen TV. The in-store sale starts at 8am, but the online sale may start earlier so check their website regularly to get the savings.   And if you go to Walmart, check out the Norma Kamali collection.  It’s definitely one of the best things Walmart has going.

To keep up to date on the savings, check RetailMeNot’s Black Friday coupon and savings page.  All deals are being collected by the firm and aggregated on this web page.  They already have Cyber Monday deals posted too.  Be aware that not all the coupons will work, but I keep trying them until I find one that does. 🙂
Both Kohl’s and Macy’s have already kicked off their holiday campaigns. Kohl’s campaign is “Give, Save and Be Merry.”  Click here for Kohl’s deals.  Check the Kohls.com website for more deals.  Macy’s is offering more celebrity brands and gift shops than ever before.  Look for Martha Stewart, Rachael Roy and new INC. collections in store.  There’s always a Macy’s passport coupon for Macy’s savings in your local paper, or check my Macy’s coupon widget here on the blog, on the right sidebar, beneath the fold, for savings.

Stay tuned, I’ll be posted more deals as I find them.  Beware… the monster is coming to a mall near you!