The Future of Black Friday: Is Black Friday changing? By: Katie Ho

Every year after Thanksgiving, Black Friday is always the talk. Black Friday is Friday right after Thanksgiving. On that Friday, many stores—such as retailers—set sales on their merchandise, hoping for crowds. During this famous day, many people go out of their way just to snag jaw-dropping deals, and discounts. However, Black Friday 2025 may have been different compared to previous years. As technology continues to grow in advance, online shopping increases. And as inflation increases, many are hesitant with spending. This leaves the question, how did Black Friday 2025 compare to previous years?

Of course, as technology continues to grow, online shopping tends to increase. Online shopping provides an advantage, allowing consumers to make purchases in the comfort of their home. However, online shopping can also affect how physical sales are made in person, shopping centers, and even malls. Mr. Burnette, a teacher at Hillgrove High School, stated, “ I decide whether to shop in-store or online by what it is. If it’s groceries, I go to the market, but if it's like something else, I'll order them.” Explaining how he decides whether to shop online, or in person. Ximena Rodriguez, a student at Hillgrove High School, stated, “I feel like most people shop online, for sure. Some people still shop on SHEIN and things like that. I feel like people didn't go into physical stores as much as they used to.” Suggesting how online shopping influenced a larger crowd compared to in-store shopping.

Not only is online shopping a growing factor that impacts Black Friday, but many can consider inflation as a factor as well. Ximena Rodriguez stated, “Especially because of inflation, it did go up. And now especially, a lot of companies are only interested in making more money.” Describing how inflation increased consumer goods, and how many companies are focused on making more money. She added, “So sometimes they say stuff on Black Friday deals. but it is the same price that it was.” Implying that sometimes, companies will label their goods as “on sale,” but it is the same.

As certain factors such as online shopping and inflation continue to grow, the question is whether Black Friday will continue its long serving legacy spirals. As consumers continue to be affected by many factors, their idea of Black Friday will continue to grow, and change. While the concept of Black Friday itself is not disappearing, it is certainly evolving, and its success may depend on its consumers and producers.