For canny Christmas gift buyers Black Friday is a red-letter event.
A US tradition, it initially referred to discounts available the day after Thanksgiving.
“It used to be something we heard about on US TV shows but in the last five years it has become really popular here,” says Jaimie Cantwell, head of commercial at leading electrical retailer Currys Ireland.
“At the beginning it was a one-day sale, then a weekend event. Now Black Friday deals run almost all through November and we are seeing more shoppers coming in for their Christmas buys than ever.”
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Starting Christmas shopping during Black Friday allows people to spread their Christmas buying over a few pay cheques
Cantwell knows why. “There are definite advantages. Firstly, we do all our stock buying for Black Friday over the summer and that allows us to have better promotional prices at this time of year,” she explains.
“Also, starting your Christmas shopping during Black Friday allows people spread their Christmas buying over a few pay cheques.”
It also means you have a greater choice. “Stock issues are definitely better this year than last year for retailers, but for key gifting items, to be sure to get what you want, it’s good to get them as soon as you can – you mightn’t be able to do so by the end of December,” she cautions.
Easy-to-set-up gaming gifts
This year’s big seller is the Meta Quest VR Gaming Headset, which allows the recipient to jump into virtual reality without a PC or console.
“This version is better-performing all round, with better display resolution than the original Meta Quest. Consoles tend to hold their price year-round so where you can really get value is through bundling opportunities. This year we are offering great Black Friday bundles with games. There’s a wider choice of games than ever available and this VR headset will take the bones of 50 games,” says Cantwell.
One such bundle is the Meta Quest 2 Resident Evil Bundle – 128gb, which is on offer for €399.
Glossy hair and beauty gifts
Hair care products are a huge seller. “One of the things driving it is innovation and product development, including heat-free designs that cause less damage to your hair. It’s all about hair care.”
The most-known and established brand here is the Dyson Airwrap complete hair multi-styler, in vinca blue and rosé, which comes in a special edition gift set.
At €579 it’s the only hair product you’ll ever need. “With one tool you can dry, curl or straighten,” Cantwell explains.
A more affordable alternative is the Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Styler and Hair Dryer in stylish black and rose gold, which has been a big seller since its launch to the market a couple of months ago.
“Its unique selling point is the technology of the top brand for a fraction of the price, at €369.99,” says Cantwell.
Tasty gifts for foodies
Demand for air fryers is heating up too. “Once media began reporting on how much cheaper they are to run than an oven, demand exploded,” says Cantwell.
It speaks to a particular concern among shoppers this year – energy bills.
“The rising cost of living is an issue for people this year and, as a result, the way people are approaching gifting is different. They are going for a little more practicality. They are also cutting back on bits and bobs in favour of maybe one good gift for each person,” she explains.
“Once media began reporting on how much cheaper an air fryer is to run than an oven, demand exploded”
While some people might balk at the idea of being given an air fryer, others will absolutely love it. “If you love gadgets and love food, you’ll be delighted. Air fryers use less oil, so they are healthier too,” says Cantwell.
The most popular option at Currys is the Ninja Foodi MAX Dual Zone Air Fryer, at €269.99.
“It has two drawers, and you could put a chicken in one and chips in the other and it would cook both to perfection, with no cross contamination, and have them ready at the same time, so it’s really handy,” she explains.
The Tefal ActiFry Genius XL Air Fryer, currently €179.99, with a saving of €120, is another great option that can cook enough food for eight people. “It’s also super easy to use,” says Cantwell.
For a kitchen workhorse the Kenwood kMix in silver and rose gold, currently on offer €299.99, a saving of €300, will instantly enhance any countertop and be at the heart of the kitchen for years. “You get three key attachments so you can get going straight from the first time you open the box. It will be a staple seller because people wait for Black Friday to buy it,” says Cantwell.
E-Mobility
Electric scooters remain sought-after. “The Segway Ninebot F25E electric folding e-scooter is a great introduction to the world of micro mobility and is currently on offer for €399. It’s a really popular gift item right now,” Cantwell says.
Kids Tech
Currys has developed a strong kids technology offering. “It’s one of the fastest growing sections we have,” says Cantwell.
A top seller is the LeapFrog LeapGlobe Touch, on offer for €59.99, a fun way for kids to learn about different countries and cultures that lights up as it spins, with touch-sensitive landmarks and graphics. It is suitable for ages 3-10, which gives it lasting appeal too.
Or how about helping youngsters get to grips with the world of social media without ever needing a phone? The VTECH Kidizoom Studio Camera is suitable for ages 5-13 and is “all about creativity”, according to Cantwell.
They can take a picture, record a video and edit it all in camera, without the fuss of computers and editing software. It’s really easy to set up and use and comes with a tripod and green screen.
“It’s a nice introduction to this world in a safe way, without the need for mobile phones and without any streaming involved. And on offer at €59.99, saving €10, it is really good value,” she adds.
It’s also built to last, which matters. “Sustainability is a huge feature for customers. They want to know about the life cycle of a product,” Cantwell adds.
“We are all hearing about the cost-of-living crisis too this year, and it’s very real. Customers want value and choice this Christmas and the buyers and staff at Currys Ireland have worked hard to deliver on both.”
These Black Friday deals mean you can find something for everyone at affordable prices, leaving you free to enjoy the run-up to the big day.