With Black Friday right around the corner, South African shoppers are gearing up to take advantage of discounts and deals. But this isn't only for the average shopper, and business's, especially SMEs, can also find products and services that can boost their business.

But navigating Black Friday sales - whether online or in-store - can be overwhelming. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your budget, shop safely, and avoid common pitfalls, while coming out with business boosting items as well.

1. Set a budget and stick to it

Before the Black Friday rush, plan your budget. Decide how much you’re willing to spend overall and break it down by category or item. This way, you’ll avoid impulse buys that can leave you way over budget and sitting with useless items.

2. Research products and prices early

First of all look at your business and what it needs and the research prices. Black Friday deals are usually teased well in advance, and it’s worth keeping an eye on these offers so you’re ready to strike when the time is right. Even if they're not teased early, check out the normal pricing of the items you need, that way you can compare prices and determine whether you're getting a good deal. 

Compare prices. Some deals are better than others, so don’t settle on the first one you see. Use price comparison websites and apps to ensure you’re getting the best value. And look for product reviews. This is especially important for big-ticket items. Reading reviews can help you avoid poor-quality products, ensuring your money goes further.

3. Sign up for newsletters and alerts

Exclusive Black Friday deals are often shared  to newsletter subscribers or app users. By signing up, you may receive early access to deals, discount codes, or exclusive in-app specials. So sign up for email alerts from places that stock what you are looking for. Make sure to also follow brands on social media, as they often announce flash deals and extra discounts for followers.

4. Be wary of “too good to be true” offers

During Black Friday, you might see deals that look almost too good to pass up. Unfortunately, scammers often exploit this by setting up fake websites or sending phishing emails. Keep your shopping safe by:

•    Verifying websites, only shop on reputable websites with secure payment options (look for a lock icon in the URL bar).
•    Avoiding suspicious links. Don’t click on links from unknown senders. Instead, go directly to the retailer’s official website.
•    Use secure payment methods. Opt for payment options like credit cards or trusted payment gateways that offer fraud protection.

5. Check for free delivery and return policies

Shipping costs and return policies can make or break a good deal. Some vendors offer free delivery or discounted rates for orders over a certain amount.Consider consolidating purchases to hit the minimum spend for free shipping.

Make sure you understand the return policies, especially if buying online, as some items may not be eligible for returns or might incur restocking fees.

6. Use loyalty programs and cashback offers

If your supplier has a loyalty program, use it! Many retailers offer Black Friday points or extra rewards.

7. Plan your in-store visit

If you’re shopping in-store, it’s a good idea to go prepared:

•    Check your local stores a day or two in advance, and know where your items are located.
•    Avoid the crowds by visiting stores early in the morning or towards closing time.
•    Black Friday shopping in-store can be a marathon, so dress comfortably!

8. Avoid buying just because it’s cheap

It’s easy to be swept up in the discounts, but buying something just because it’s marked down can lead to unnecessary spending. Stick to your list and budget while focusing on quality over quantity.

9. Use a mobile device as a shopping ally

A smartphone can be a great tool for comparing prices and checking reviews. Compare prices in real time. Scan barcodes or search items online while in-store to see if a better deal is available nearby or online.

10. Stay calm and shop smart

Black Friday is exciting, but it’s important to keep a level head to avoid getting caught up in the frenzy. Remember that some retailers continue their sales over the weekend or into Cyber Monday, so there may still be time if you miss out on an item.

Black Friday is a great opportunity to snag the items you need at discounted prices. Keep an eye on this page, so that you don't miss out on Vodacom's Black Friday deals. Happy shopping!