Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday: What’s the Difference and Why Do They Exist?
As November draws to a close, two major shopping events dominate the retail calendar: Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While they often overlap today, these events have distinct histories and purposes. Let’s explore their differences, why they happen, and what deals you can expect from TheInternetRetailer.co.uk and its marketplace partners.
What is Black Friday?
Black Friday falls on the Friday after Thanksgiving in the U.S. and marks the start of the holiday shopping season. Traditionally, it was an in-store event, famous for doorbuster deals and long queues. Retailers used this day to clear inventory and attract crowds with steep discounts on big-ticket items like TVs and appliances.
Why is it called “Black Friday”?
The term originated in 1960s Philadelphia, describing traffic chaos after Thanksgiving. Retailers later embraced it as the day they moved from “in the red” (loss) to “in the black” (profit). By the 1980s, Black Friday became a nationwide—and eventually global—shopping phenomenon.
What is Cyber Monday?
Cyber Monday occurs the Monday after Thanksgiving and was introduced in 2005 by the National Retail Federation to promote online shopping. Initially, it catered to those who missed Black Friday or preferred shopping from home. Today, it’s synonymous with tech deals, digital bundles, and sitewide discounts.
Key Differences
- Timing: Black Friday = Friday; Cyber Monday = Monday.
- Channel: Black Friday started in-store; Cyber Monday was born online.
- Deals: Black Friday focuses on doorbusters; Cyber Monday offers sitewide codes and free shipping.
- Products: Black Friday = TVs, appliances; Cyber Monday = tech gadgets, software, fashion.
Why Do They Happen?
Both events aim to kickstart holiday shopping and boost retail profits. Black Friday grew from a cultural tradition tied to Thanksgiving, while Cyber Monday emerged as a response to the rise of e-commerce. Together, they’ve evolved into a five-day shopping marathon known as “Cyber Week.”
Deals from TheInternetRetailer.co.uk
This year, TheInternetRetailer.co.uk is rolling out exclusive Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotions across its own store and major marketplaces, including Amazon, eBay, Etsy, OnBuy, and Fruugo.
Final Thoughts
Black Friday and Cyber Monday may have different origins, but both share one goal: delivering unbeatable deals. With TheInternetRetailer.co.uk and its marketplace partners offering massive discounts, this is the perfect time to upgrade your home, tech, and lifestyle essentials.