Black Fridayi.e. the day of mass sales, in 2025 falls on November 28. You can already see counters counting down to this event on the websites of many stores. But is it really worth getting carried away by shopping madness? Experts and the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection advise to approach promotion with caution.
Discounts of up to 70 percent do not always mean real savings. To avoid disappointment, it is worth preparing in advance:
— Check prices before Black Friday — Note the current prices of the products you are interested in and pay attention to the lowest price in the last 30 days. In accordance with the EU Omnibus directive, stores are obliged to inform about this value during promotions.
— Make a shopping list – Think about what you really need. This will help you avoid impulsive purchases.
— Compare offers — Promotional prices in one store may be standard prices in another. It's worth checking out different sources to make sure you're actually getting the best deal.
Black Friday. UOKiK warns: Don't fall into the trap
The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) regularly reminds about the pitfalls that may await shoppers on Black Friday. One popular practice is to artificially raise prices a few weeks before sales and then offer “spectacular” discounts. However, thanks to the Omnibus Directive, consumers have a greater chance to make informed purchases, as the seller must provide the lowest price from the last 30 days.
The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection also advises pay attention to the unit price of products, i.e. the cost per liter, kilogram or piece. This is often a more reliable indicator of the attractiveness of the offer than the percentage discount itself.
What is Black Friday? American tradition, Polish reality
Black Friday has its origins in the United States. Initially, it was associated with parades organized after Thanksgiving, which became an opportunity for department stores to promote their products. The term “Black Friday” appeared in the 1960s and initially had a negative connotation, referring to traffic jams. Over time, however, it gained positive meaning, becoming a symbol of mass sales and the start of the holiday shopping season.
In Poland, Black Friday gained popularity relatively recently, but quickly became one of the most important days in the shopping calendar. Cyber Monday also appeared with it, focusing mainly on promotions in online stores.
Black Friday 2025. Planning is the key to success
Experts emphasize that the key to successful shopping on Black Friday is common sense and proper preparation. “Don't fall into the consumption trap. Plan a budget. Make a list. Before making a purchase, consider: do I need or want it? Do not go into debt to take advantage of 'exceptional opportunities'. Check if you can afford it,” urges the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection.
Black Friday is a time that can bring real savings, but only if we approach it wisely. It is worth remembering that the best offer is one that not only tempts with a discount, but also actually meets our needs and fits into the planned budget.
