Shopping mall crowd during Black Friday sales

Crowd at a shopping mall during Black Friday sales, depicting intense consumption and the search for deals at night.

About this subject

Black Friday, originating in the United States in the 1950s as the day after Thanksgiving, has become a global consumption phenomenon. In Brazil, the event gained momentum from 2010 onwards, with large retail chains and shopping malls joining in. The image shows a typical crowd during this period, with consumers competing for products at night, when many stores extend hours to maximize sales. This behavior reflects a culture of immediate consumption and the search for discounts, which can lead to mile-long queues and stockouts within minutes. According to the National Confederation of Commerce in Goods, Services, and Tourism (CNC), in 2023 Black Friday generated around R$5.2 billion in online and physical sales in the country. Despite the promotional appeal, critics point to practices such as 'price masking,' where products have inflated prices before the date to simulate larger discounts. Procon and consumer protection agencies monitor these actions, advising shoppers to research prices in advance. In malls, security is reinforced to control crowd flow and prevent disturbances, as recorded in previous editions in several Brazilian capitals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of Black Friday?

Black Friday originated in the United States in the 1950s, initially linked to traffic chaos and crowded stores on the day after Thanksgiving. Over time, it became a massive discount event adopted by retailers worldwide.

Does Black Friday in Brazil offer real discounts?

Not always. The practice of 'price masking' is common, where prices are inflated before the date to simulate larger discounts. It is recommended to research prices in advance and use comparison sites to verify actual savings.

How to prepare for Black Friday shopping at malls?

Plan a list of desired items, research prices beforehand, avoid peak hours (such as opening and closing times), and prefer card or app payments to speed up. Be aware of exchange policies and delivery deadlines.