Black Friday Meaning: The Story Behind the Name

Black Friday, a shopping phenomenon that has captured the attention of consumers worldwide, holds a fascinating history and complex meaning. This annual event, occurring the day after Thanksgiving in the United States, has evolved from its humble beginnings to become a global retail extravaganza. The term “Black Friday” has sparked curiosity and controversy, leading many to question its origins and implications.

The story behind Black Friday’s name is as intriguing as the event itself. From its roots in American culture to its impact on the economy, this article delves into the multifaceted nature of Black Friday. Readers will discover the historical context, explore the retail industry’s role in shaping the event, and examine both the positive and negative aspects of this shopping frenzy. By understanding the meaning and history of Black Friday, consumers can make informed decisions about their participation in this cultural and economic phenomenon.

The Origin of Black Friday

The term “Black Friday” has a rich and intriguing history that dates back to the mid-20th century. While many associate it with the retail industry’s profitability, its origins are rooted in a different context altogether.

Philadelphia’s Traffic Nightmare

The story of Black Friday begins in Philadelphia during the 1950s and 1960s. The day after Thanksgiving became notorious for causing significant disruptions in the city’s daily life. Large numbers of suburban tourists would flood into Philadelphia to start their holiday shopping, creating chaos on the streets and in stores. This influx of people resulted in massive traffic jams, overcrowded sidewalks, and stores packed from opening to closing.

The situation was exacerbated by the narrow streets of Philadelphia, which were ill-equipped to handle the sudden surge in traffic. The introduction of a new traffic pattern for the holidays, which restricted Chestnut Street to busses and pedestrians, further complicated matters. Drivers arriving in the city for a weekend trip found themselves stuck in traffic jams that lasted from early morning until late at night, rivaling the worst rush-hour conditions.

Police Department Coinage

It was the Philadelphia Police Department that first coined the term “Black Friday” to describe this annual event. Police officers, along with bus drivers, used the phrase to express their dread of the day’s challenges. The name was not meant as a term of endearment but rather as a reflection of the difficult conditions they faced.

Joseph P. Barrett, a longtime police reporter for the Philadelphia Bulletin, played a role in popularizing the term. In the early 1960s, Barrett and his colleague Nathan Kleger wrote a front-page story for Thanksgiving, adopting the police term “Black Friday” to describe the post-Thanksgiving chaos. This media coverage helped spread the use of the term beyond law enforcement circles.

Army-Navy Game Connection

An additional factor contributing to the Black Friday phenomenon in Philadelphia was the annual Army-Navy football game. Since 1932, with only three exceptions, this classic college football matchup has been held in Philadelphia on the Saturday following Thanksgiving. The game’s location shifted from the University of Pennsylvania’s Franklin Field to Philadelphia Municipal Stadium (later renamed John F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium) in 1936, increasing the attendance potential by about 35,000 people.

The combination of holiday shoppers and football fans created a perfect storm of congestion. Approximately 50% of the game’s attendees would arrive in Philadelphia on “Black Friday” and stay until Sunday, further straining the city’s infrastructure. The police and city services had to deal with not only the shopping frenzy but also the additional crowds associated with this major sporting event.

Despite attempts by retailers in 1961 to rebrand the day as “Big Friday,” the original term persisted. The negative connotations associated with “Black Friday” proved difficult to shake off, and it remained the prevalent term used to describe this chaotic shopping day.

In conclusion, the origin of Black Friday is deeply rooted in Philadelphia’s urban challenges of the mid-20th century. What began as a dreaded day for law enforcement and city workers has evolved into a significant cultural and economic phenomenon, shaping the retail landscape and holiday shopping traditions for decades to come.

The Retail Industry’s Behind the Meaning of Black Friday

The retail industry has played a significant role in shaping the perception of Black Friday, transforming it from a day of chaos to a highly anticipated shopping event. This evolution has involved creative marketing strategies and a reimagining of the term’s meaning.

From Red to Black

By the late 1980s, retailers found a way to spin Black Friday in their favor and change how consumers view the day. They spread the idea that the day after Thanksgiving marked the beginning of the Christmas holiday season and was when America’s retail stores would finally turn their finances from red to black.

This narrative suggests that businesses operate at a financial loss, or are “in the red,” until the day after Thanksgiving. The massive sales on this day finally allow them to turn a profit, putting them “in the black.” However, this explanation is not entirely accurate. The true origin of the term dates back to the early 1960s and is rooted in the chaos caused by large crowds in Philadelphia.

Despite its inaccuracy, the “red to black” concept stuck with consumers. Retailers creatively advertised this story and offered special discounts specifically for Black Friday. The heart-warming tale of American businesses turning a profit resonated with shoppers, and each year the popularity of Black Friday grew.

Attempts to Rename

Not surprisingly, retailers didn’t love the use of the gloomy term “Black Friday” to describe one of their biggest revenue days. As early as 1961, public relations professionals attempted to change the public’s perception of Black Friday. In an issue of Public Relations News, an industry newsletter, efforts were described to change the day from “Black” to “Big” to solidify its reputation as a day of family fun and shopping.

Abe S. Rosen, a well-known PR executive, recommended adopting a positive approach to convert Black Friday and Black Saturday to Big Friday and Big Saturday. The media cooperated in spreading news about the beauty of Christmas-decorated downtown Philadelphia, the popularity of family outings to department stores during the Thanksgiving weekend, increased parking facilities, and additional police officers to ensure a free flow of traffic.

Although the name “Big Friday” didn’t stick, continued efforts to put a positive spin on the day eventually paid off. Today, most consumers associate Black Friday with the black ink retailers see from increased sales, rather than its original negative connotations.

Spread Across the United States

Over the next few decades, the name Black Friday began to spread across the United States. The phrase “Black Friday” to signify a positive boost in retail sales didn’t grow nationwide until the late 1980s when merchants started to spread the red-to-black profit narrative.

Black Friday was described as the day stores began to turn a profit for the year and as the biggest shopping day in the United States. In truth, most stores saw their largest sales on the Saturday before Christmas. However, the Black Friday story stuck, and pretty soon the term’s darker roots in Philadelphia were largely forgotten.

The retail industry’s spin has had a lasting impact on how Black Friday is perceived and celebrated. Today, retailers have little concern with the origin of the name but have taken full advantage of its global recognition. Black Friday, along with Cyber Monday, has become a day for stores to make a significant portion of their yearly sales with one-day-only and doorbuster promotions.

The success of this rebranding effort has led to Black Friday’s expansion beyond the United States. It crossed into Canada in 2008, edged into the UK in 2010, and reached Australia and New Zealand around 2013. Even culturally-protective France has embraced “Le Black Friday.” This global spread can be attributed to globalization and the rise of social media since the late 2000s, making consumers, particularly Gen Z shoppers, instantly aware of global trends.

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Evolution of Black Friday

Black Friday has undergone significant changes since its inception, transforming from a single-day event to a prolonged shopping season. This evolution has been driven by various factors, including technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, and retailers’ strategies to maximize profits.

From Single Day to Shopping Season

The traditional concept of Black Friday as a one-day shopping extravaganza has expanded considerably over the years. Retailers have extended their sales periods, often starting well before Thanksgiving and continuing through the holiday season. This widening of Black Friday sales has been occurring for about a decade, with some retailers offering deals as early as October.

The extension of Black Friday serves multiple purposes. It helps retailers compete more effectively in an increasingly crowded market and eases pressure on shipping logistics, which have been particularly strained in recent years. By offering early deals, retailers can spread out the shopping frenzy and manage their inventory and delivery systems more efficiently.

Cyber Monday and Online Shopping

The rise of e-commerce has had a profound impact on Black Friday, leading to the creation of Cyber Monday in 2005. This online shopping event, which takes place on the Monday following Thanksgiving, has grown to rival and even surpass Black Friday in terms of sales volume.

In 2022, Cyber Monday saw record-breaking sales, with consumers spending USD 12.40 billion, a 9.6% increase from the previous year. During peak hours, shoppers were spending an astonishing USD 15.70 million every minute. This shift towards online shopping has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted more consumers to make their purchases from the comfort of their homes.

The growth of e-commerce has also led to the creation of other online shopping events. For instance, Amazon introduced “Prime Day” in 2015, offering deals that promised to be better than those on Black Friday. This trend has been followed by other companies, further expanding the holiday shopping season.

Small Business Saturday

Amidst the dominance of large retailers and e-commerce giants, Small Business Saturday has emerged as a counterbalance to Black Friday. Launched by American Express, this initiative aims to redirect consumer attention to small enterprises and their contributions to the economy and local communities.

Small Business Saturday, which takes place on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, has become an important event for small businesses, including local restaurants and shops. It provides these enterprises with a much-needed spotlight, allowing them to showcase their unique offerings and customer-focused services.

The importance of this event cannot be overstated, as small businesses are often considered the backbone of the U.S. economy. They bring diversity, innovation, and personalization that larger corporations may lack. Their success or failure directly impacts the vibrancy of neighborhoods and the overall economic health of regions, particularly in suburban and rural areas.

As Black Friday continues to evolve, it’s clear that the landscape of holiday shopping is becoming increasingly diverse and complex. From extended sales periods to the rise of online shopping and the focus on supporting small businesses, consumers now have more options than ever for their holiday purchases. This evolution reflects broader changes in retail, technology, and consumer behavior, shaping the future of this iconic shopping event.

The Dark Side of Black Friday

While Black Friday is known for its incredible deals and shopping excitement, it also has a darker side that often goes unnoticed. The frenzy of bargain hunting can lead to dangerous situations, putting both shoppers and retail workers at risk.

Crowding and Chaos

Black Friday sales bring millions of consumers to stores across the United States. Large retailers invest heavily in advertising and hire thousands of temporary staff to handle the crowds. However, the eagerness to find bargains often leads to chaotic scenes. Shoppers have reported being shoved against displays, unable to move due to the sheer volume of people. In some cases, employees have had to rescue trapped colleagues from the surging crowds.

The rush for limited deals contributes to heightened stress levels, which can escalate into dangerous situations. Surveys indicate that over 50% of Black Friday shoppers have witnessed aggressive behavior while shopping, with 41% admitting to experiencing physical altercations during sales events.

Safety Concerns

The safety risks associated with Black Friday shopping are numerous and varied. Common hazards include:

1. Crowd crushes and stampedes due to overcrowding
2. Trips and falls caused by crowded aisles or merchandise left on the floor
3. Physical altercations among shoppers over sought-after items
4. Injuries from heavy merchandise falling or being pushed over
5. Strain or sprain injuries to retail employees from handling large volumes of merchandise
6. Traffic accidents in congested parking lots
7. Theft and pickpocketing in crowded stores
8. Fire hazards due to overcrowding or blocked exits
9. Heat exhaustion or dehydration from waiting in long lines outdoors

These safety concerns have prompted some retailers to implement crowd control measures and security protocols. However, despite these efforts, injuries and incidents continue to occur.

Reported Incidents

The most alarming aspect of Black Friday is the number of serious incidents that have been reported over the years. According to various sources, there have been between 12 and 17 reported deaths and 117 to 125 injuries since 2006. These incidents range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries like fractures and concussions.

One of the most tragic incidents occurred in 2008 when a 38-year-old Walmart employee in New York was trampled to death after a stampede of shoppers rushed into the store. Witnesses reported that shoppers continued to push through as the man lay motionless on the ground.

Other notable incidents include:

• A woman using pepper spray on other shoppers in a Walmart, injuring at least 20 people
• A fatal shooting in a San Antonio Walmart parking lot when a man tried to intervene in a domestic dispute
• Multiple cases of shoppers fainting from exhaustion or dehydration

These incidents highlight the need for increased safety measures and awareness during Black Friday sales. While many retailers have shifted focus towards online sales to reduce in-store risks, the allure of in-person shopping continues to draw crowds, making safety a ongoing concern for both shoppers and retailers alike.

Black Friday’s Impact on the Economy

Black Friday has evolved into a significant economic event, influencing retail sales, consumer behavior, and broader economic trends. This shopping phenomenon has far-reaching implications for businesses and the overall economy.

Retail Sales Statistics

Black Friday continues to be a major driver of retail sales, with both online and in-store purchases contributing to substantial revenue growth. In 2023, global online sales during Black Friday grew by 8% year-over-year, reaching USD 70.90 billion. The United States saw an even more impressive increase, with online sales jumping 9% to USD 16.40 billion, according to Salesforce data. Adobe reported a slightly lower but still significant figure of USD 9.80 billion in U.S. online sales, representing a 7.5% year-over-year increase.

Total U.S. retail sales on Black Friday increased by 5% compared to the previous year. However, there was a notable difference between online and in-store performance. While e-commerce sales surged by 8.5%, in-store shopping saw a modest 1.1% increase, highlighting the growing preference for online purchases.

Consumer Behavior Trends

Consumer behavior during Black Friday has been evolving, influenced by factors such as technological advancements and changing economic conditions. In 2023, a record 200.4 million consumers participated in Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales in the United States. This figure surpassed the previous year’s record of 196.7 million by 1.9%, indicating growing consumer interest in these shopping events.

Mobile shopping has become increasingly popular, with 79% of Cyber Week e-commerce traffic originating from mobile phones in 2023. This trend reflects the growing trust in smartphone transactions and improved mobile online experiences.

Interestingly, while Black Friday remains popular, consumer attitudes are mixed. About 57% of consumers believe Black Friday is a scam to encourage excessive spending. However, 84% of Gen Z consumers view Black Friday sales as good value, although 60% of this demographic regret at least one Black Friday purchase.

Economic Implications

Black Friday has significant implications for the broader economy. Consumer spending during this period is often seen as a litmus test for consumer confidence and sentiment. Higher spending on Black Friday typically indicates greater consumer confidence and optimism about the future, while lower spending suggests decreased confidence and pessimism.

The retail sector, a major contributor to GDP and employment, relies heavily on Black Friday sales. For many retailers, including clothing suppliers, Black Friday week can account for a substantial percentage of their annual revenue.

Black Friday spending can also influence inflation trends. Increased spending can lead to higher demand for goods and services, potentially pushing up prices and inflation. Conversely, lower spending can result in reduced demand, potentially pulling down prices and inflation. These inflation trends can, in turn, affect interest rates set by central banks, impacting borrowing costs and overall economic activity.

Artificial intelligence has begun to play a crucial role in driving sales during Black Friday and Cyber Week. In 2023, AI contributed to USD 51.00 billion in global online sales by delivering personalized promotions, recommending products, and providing chat services. This technological integration highlights the evolving nature of retail and its potential to further boost economic activity during these shopping events.

Conclusion

Black Friday has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a day of chaos in Philadelphia to a global retail phenomenon. Its journey reflects shifts in consumer behavior, technological advancements, and economic trends. While the event continues to draw massive crowds and generate substantial revenue, it also raises important questions about safety, sustainability, and the changing face of retail.

As we reflect on Black Friday’s impact, it’s crucial to consider its broader implications for personal finances and well-being. The shopping frenzy can sometimes overshadow the importance of mindful spending and maintaining healthy relationships. At Inquire Talk, we understand the significance of mental health in all aspects of life, including shopping habits, and offer online counseling services to support individuals in managing stress and fostering better relationships. To wrap up, Black Friday serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between commerce, culture, and personal choices, encouraging us to approach our shopping decisions with awareness and intention.

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