By Rorisang Modiba
- Shoppers across South Africa wake up early for Black Friday specials in stores and online, with many looking for everyday essentials.
- Financial experts warn South Africans to stick to their budgets as banks caution customers about scams and dodgy deals.
South Africans are up before sunrise as Black Friday hits the country, with shoppers rushing into stores and logging on to websites, hoping to score the best bargains.
Many people start their shopping from midnight or in the early hours of Friday. Others wait for the biggest specials that retailers save for the weekend.
Big-name stores roll out huge discounts, and online deals continue through to Cyber Monday. While specials have been running through November, retailers keep their best offers for the
Black Friday weekend to boost sales before the festive season.
Analysts say South Africans are expected to spend more than R3-billion this year. Early sales figures show shoppers are already well on their way to hitting that number.
This year, many people are not chasing luxury items. Instead, they are looking for basics to help them get through the long stretch to January.
The spending push comes at a time when the economy looks slightly more hopeful. With lower inflation and falling interest rates, many households have a bit more room in their budgets.
But financial experts warn shoppers not to blow their money in one weekend.
Banks also urge customers to watch out for scams and fake sellers.
Shoppers are reminded to read the fine print before paying, especially when buying online.
Hundreds of retailers are offering deals, but not every bargain is worth it.
Pictured above: Shoppers rush for Black Friday deals.
Image source: Supplied
