Published 23 November 2023

5 tips for a more sustainable Black Friday

It's that time of year when shops roll out the red sale signs, businesses get their marketing emails ready, and consumers begin preparing themselves for those 'unmissable' deals. That's right, Black Friday is upon us.

Black Friday is the Friday following Thanksgiving and has become one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Heaving with in-store/online sales and ads from all directions, it's hard not to feel influenced to browse the deals. In fact, it'd be near impossible to avoid temptation given the millions of marketing dollars that are pumped into making us feel this way.

With the consumer frenzy of Christmas and Boxing Day also fast approaching, we've compiled our top five tips for staying conscious, mindful and sustainable around this time of year.

Recognise the feeling of FOMO (fear of missing out)

We all know that terrible feeling that we might be missing out on an amazing deal. When we see an ad that reads '70% off' or 'biggest sale EVER' and think... 'maybe I should just take a look.' 

It's a valid feeling, and is one that has been carefully constructed by huge teams of marketing, design and advertising professionals who know exactly what they're doing. When you feel it, remind yourself of this. 

Do everything in your power to not react

It's easier said than done, but the more that we don't respond to that feeling, the more that companies will realise that they can't continue doing what they're doing. 

We recommend cutting down screen time around/on the day of Black Friday, avoiding clicking on the pop-up ads, and trying not to browse online shops. Instead, why not have a day outside with friends and whānau, catch up on chores or get stuck into a good TV show?

Think about what you really need

Have you ever been in a position where you're considering buying something just because it's a good deal? 

We've been there too. It's amazing how quickly we can be convinced that what we already have is getting too old or needs an upgrade. And all of a sudden, we're replacing something that still works perfectly fine!

Think - 'if this wasn't on sale, would I still buy it?' 

Be alert for greenwashing/do good-ing

We're all clocking on to the devastating environmental impact of overconsuming, and businesses know this. 

Companies will be pulling out all the stops to appear 'green' amongst their sales, offering to plant trees or donate part of their profits. Be wary though, as this is often a ploy to distract from the destructiveness of their business.

Where is your money going?

Local and small businesses simply can't afford to slash their prices and market their sales like big international businesses can. 

While massive retailers will be stacking in profits in the millions, think about the little guys next door. While they might not be able to offer 50%, 60% or 70% off, all of their profits go back into supporting our neighbours, friends and local economy (instead of billionaire CEOs overseas!)