Johannesburg - The name “Black Friday” might suggest a sorrowful day for some, but for many it heralds excitement because it will be a day of shopping sales.
Although Black Friday is originally an American tradition that refers to a day of big sales and promotions on the first Friday after Thanksgiving, which falls on November 24 this year, South African stores and brands have hit the floor running with the concept.
Shoppers can expect sales on everything from clothing and food to cars and airline tickets.
Tom Eaton’s tweet sums up the feelings of many. He wrote: “DOWN WITH AMERICAN CULTURAL IMPERIALISM! DOWN WITH CAPITALISM! DOWN WITH omg a link to black friday specials got to go bye.”
Though many people online had trepidation, as soon as outlets began putting up their deals, they couldn’t resist.
Shoppers are urged to dress comfortably and arrive at the stores early.
Game was due to open at 7am for its sale.
Some stores, such as Clicks, are offering build-up promotions that end today.
Those getting paid on the last day of the month are lamenting the date of the sales.
@BhudaRSA tweeted: “#BlackFriday Count Me Out! I’m Broke.”
Others warned that people shouldn’t get caught up in it. @WayneHarper_ who said: “Do yourselves a favour and ignore these Black Friday deals in SA this weekend.”
Here is a list of stores to look out for...
Makro: Up to 45 percent off tomorrow to Sunday.
Bidvest McCarthy: Largest ever one-day sale tomorrow.
VW Soweto: Massive discounts offered on 25 vehicles.
Coricraft: Up to 70 percent off.
Takealot: Blue Dot Sale on selected items on the site.
Total Sports: Extra 20 percent off sale and 50 percent off summer gear.
Zando: Up to 80 percent off limited stock.
Specsavers: Up to 60 percent off frames, glasses and contacts (online only).
Sunglass Hut: Up to 60 percent off.
Superbalist: Deals on over 16 000 pieces to shop for online.
Checkers: Up to 50 percent off.
Travelstart: Savings on holiday packages, and domestic and international flight specials from only R199.
Samsung: Great offers on cellphones and appliances at its stores if consumers sign up for early email alerts.