Origins of Black Friday
The term 'Black Friday' was first used in the 1960s in Philadelphia to describe the heavy traffic after Thanksgiving. Police used it negatively due to the congestion and chaos it caused in the city.
Black Friday Evolution
Initially, Black Friday wasn't associated with sales or shopping. Over time, retailers saw the potential to attract shoppers by offering significant discounts on this day, thus turning it into a positive phenomenon.
The First 'Sales' Day
The concept of a post-Thanksgiving sale dates back to the late 19th century when Macy's launched its first Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1924, indirectly marking the start of the holiday shopping season.
Economic Indicator
By the 1980s, Black Friday had become an unofficial retail holiday, and sales performance on this day was seen as a predictor of the overall success of the holiday shopping season.
Global Phenomenon
Although rooted in American tradition, Black Friday has become a global event. Countries across the world now participate, with retailers offering similar deals, despite not celebrating Thanksgiving.
Cyber Monday Emergence
Cyber Monday was created in 2005 by retailers to encourage online shopping. The term was coined based on the spike in online sales occurring the Monday after Thanksgiving.
Black Friday Myths
Contrary to popular belief, Black Friday is not the biggest shopping day of the year. That title often goes to the Saturday before Christmas, although Black Friday remains the most famous.Record-Breaking Black Friday
In 2018, Black Friday online sales surpassed $6 billion, breaking records and highlighting the shift from in-store to online shopping.
When was 'Black Friday' first used?
1920s, post-Thanksgiving sales
1960s, Philadelphia traffic
1980s, retail holiday
Company
