The prospect of crowds of people jostling their way to the check-out counter just doesn't make a lot of sense in 2020. So the messaging from retailers for Black Friday 2020 has encouraged the public to shop early in the week rather than wait for the day.
Some retailers have even saved their best deals for online shoppers. The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce hopes that whatever path consumers take, that they consider supporting local stores.
"You can order online, phone or email," said chamber president Jeffrey Robinson. "You want to beat the crowds? Do that. The retailer will set aside what you want. Give you the best price and you get the best value and shop local."
People were lined-up outside the Kelowna Best Buy store this morning ahead of the 10 am opening. Many of the shoppers were specifically avoiding the crowds expected tomorrow.
"I don't think they're going to have any different deals," said one shopper. "The sales stay for a couple of days after," said another. "So I'll just come when it's less busy and take advantage of it then."
Another couple said they chose to come Thursday after getting assurances from the store that the very same deals will be there for them. "We're not interested in big crowds if we can avoid it," said the husband. "We get the same deal."
Still, it's believed that some stores will reserve special deals for the actual day. Whether that will mean big crowds, remains to be seen.
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