Record Number Of Brits To Embark On Black Friday & Cyber Monday Shopping Spree

Only 6% of UK consumers will not be taking advantage of reduced prices during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend, according to new research from the consumer delivery specialist Hermes. This is in stark contrast to twelve months ago when 43% of people said they didn’t purchase a single item during the weekend that is famed for huge discounts.

More than 2,000 shoppers were asked to share their intentions ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The research revealed that 41% of consumers will frantically shop both in-store and online in a bid to snare the very best deals. A further 31% said they would prefer to browse for online bargains from the comfort of their armchairs, with a further 28% admitting they will battle the huge crowds for discounted products in-store.

The survey also revealed that more than six in ten people are now saving their pennies ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday in order to secure better prices during that particular weekend. In addition, 36% of consumers showed their savvy streak by stating they would complete all of their Christmas shopping during the event. The 25 to 34-year old age group will be the most proactive with 51% of those quizzed ensuring all festive gifts are purchased during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, compared to just 11% of those aged 65 or over.

The Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend has also struck a chord with the all generations. Not a single respondent aged between 18 and 24 said they would not embark on a shopping spree during the event, compared to 10% of those aged between 55 and 64.

Clothes topped the list of the most desired discounted items (41%), followed by CDs and DVDs (33%) and books (24%). A further 21% of consumers said they would use the opportunity to secure a reduced price on electrical items, such as laptops and smartphones.

Mark Pettit, Sales & Marketing Director, Hermes, said: “The Black Friday phenomenon is a fantastic opportunity for consumers to get their hands on discounted goods, so much so that almost two-thirds of people are now holding back from making purchases until the day itself. It is interesting to learn that the majority of consumers will now combine online and in-store shopping to secure the best deals.

“According to the IMRG, UK retail websites received a combined total of 181m visits during Black Friday 2014, with an estimated ?810 million spent online. This year, commerce consultancy Salmon is predicting that Black Friday 2015 will be the very first ?1bn online shopping day in the UK. Over recent months we have worked closely with our clients to finalise plans ahead of the peak season by analysing forecasted volumes and confirming collection schedules. In addition, we have made a significant investment in our infrastructure and technology that will allow us to continue to operate a highly efficient service at all times.”