Bellevue Business Professor Shares Strategies for Black Friday Buys

Editor’s Note: This article was contributed by Dr. Julia Cronin-Gilmore, Professor and Director of the Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) Program.

What types of products are better to buy on Black Friday versus other times of the year?

For the most part, big-ticket electronics such as OLED televisions, laptops, gaming consoles such as Switch 2, and smart home devices are good choices to buy on Black Friday. Many retailers frequently offer their steepest discounts on these items to attract shoppers. Some appliances, especially older or discontinued models, and small kitchen gadgets also tend to see significant markdowns. When considering clothing, toys, and home décor, it may be cheaper later in the season or during clearance sales, making them less ideal for Black Friday purchases; however, compare prices to be sure.

Should most consumers ignore promotional deals where retailers provide deep discounts on a limited stock of an item? How can consumers judge if these doorbusters are worth the race to snag a deal?

Wise shoppers should be wary of limited-stock promotional deals because they are often designed to create excitement and drive traffic rather than provide real savings for most shoppers. To determine if a doorbuster is worth pursuing, it helps to research the item’s regular price, read reviews, and verify that the product meets quality standards. If a deal offers only minimal savings or involves a low-quality brand, it is usually better to skip it and look for a more reliable discount elsewhere.

What is a good strategy for identifying the best deals on Black Friday?

The best strategy involves comparison shopping. A good idea is to make a list of items buyers truly need or want, set a budget, and research prices ahead of time to recognize genuine discounts. Using price tracking websites, signing up for retailer newsletters, email or text messages, and monitoring online forums can help identify early sales and exclusive offers. Since many retailers start Black Friday sales early or extend them online, shopping early or digitally can yield a higher savings.

All things considered, are Black Friday discounts worth the hassle?

Yes, Black Friday discounts can be worthwhile for those who plan strategically and focus on high-value purchases, but the chaos, long lines, and limited stock can make the experience stressful if shopping in-person. A good idea is to search for comparable deals online during Black Friday, Cyber Monday or pre-holiday sales, offering a less hectic way to save. Ultimately, the value depends on the shopper’s goals. Those looking for major electronics may benefit most, while casual shoppers might find online the best route for a hassle-free holiday shopping.

Which items do you think will be in higher demand this year compared to previous years?

For 2025, high demand is expected for products that incorporate new technology and support remote lifestyles. AI-powered devices such as the Apple iPhone 16 Pro, Google Pixel 9, and the latest AI-integrated laptops from Dell and HP are likely to be top sellers. Consumers are likely to seek out smart home products including the Amazon Echo Hub, Google Nest Doorbell, and Ring security cameras as homeowners invest in convenience and safety. Shoppers will seek out gaming products with continued interest in the PlayStation 5 Pro, Xbox Series X bundles, and Nintendo Switch OLED editions. Individuals interested in fitness are likely to purchase the Apple Watch Series 10, Fitbit Charge 7, and connected home gym equipment such as Peloton and Hydrow machines. Buyers will be interested in electric vehicle accessories like Tesla charging stations, portable power banks, and home energy storage systems reflecting a growing interest in sustainable and tech-forward living.

Read the original post on WalletHub.