Black Friday 2025 is almost upon us, with less than 24 hours until the sales frenzy begins across the United Kingdom. As millions of Brits prepare to hunt for bargains, the sheer volume of deals can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, the consumer experts at watchdog Which? have compiled a definitive, fool-proof strategy to help shoppers navigate the discount day successfully.
Your Pre-Sale Strategy: Planning for Success
Creating a wish list is one of the most highly recommended tactics by Which? This simple step allows you to monitor price drops for specific items you genuinely want. Retailers like Amazon and John Lewis offer this feature, making it easy to track reductions and helping you stay focused, avoiding impulsive purchases triggered by flashy sale signs.
Another proactive move is to sign up for retailer newsletters. This ensures you are among the first to be notified about exclusive discounts and price reductions directly from your favourite shops. It’s a direct line to the best offers, keeping your eyes on the prize.
To truly understand a deal's value, turn to price tracking websites. Which? specifically mentions tools like PriceRunner and camelcamelcamel (for Amazon products) which display a product's price history. Checking this data ahead of the sale allows you to recognise a genuinely competitive price when you see one.
Leveraging Loyalty and Spotting Fakes
Don't overlook the power of loyalty schemes. Major retailers such as AO, Boots, and Superdrug often provide members with tailored pricing and exclusive deals. Which? advises signing up before the sales begin and checking your existing points balance, as they can be used to secure extra savings on Christmas gifts.
A crucial warning from the consumer champion is to be aware of counterfeit goods. If a deal on a high-demand product seems too good to be true, it probably is. Which? has previously uncovered fake electricals, clothing, toys, and cosmetics on online marketplaces. Always verify the seller and shipper before committing to a purchase.
Let the Experts Do the Work
Finally, remember that Which? can be an invaluable tool. The specialists have already done the heavy lifting by scouring the internet for worthwhile Black Friday offers. By using their researched findings, you can save time and shop with greater confidence, knowing the deals have been vetted.