nrc.nl
Dutch Black Friday 2024: Fewer Transactions, Higher Spending
Despite fewer transactions on Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2024 in the Netherlands compared to 2023, total spending increased by 10%, indicating a shift to a longer sales period ("Black November") due to earlier promotions and a strategy to manage logistics and consumer expectations.
- What were the key changes in consumer spending patterns during the 2024 Black Friday and Cyber Monday period compared to previous years?
- In the Netherlands, Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales in 2024 showed a decrease in transactions compared to 2023, but a 10% increase in total spending on Black Friday. This resulted in a longer sales period, with retailers starting promotions up to 19 days earlier. The total number of iDeal transactions increased in the week leading up to Black Friday.
- What are the long-term implications of this shift towards a more extended "Black November" sales period for both consumers and retailers?
- The 2024 Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales demonstrate a move towards sustained consumerism. While transaction numbers decreased on the main sales days, the total spending value increased. This shows that the strategy of extending sales periods to manage logistics and generate consumer demand is proving successful for retailers. Further research is needed to determine if this trend signals a long-term shift in consumer behavior.
- How did the timing of Black Friday in 2024, and retailers' strategies, contribute to the observed changes in transaction numbers and spending?
- The shift from concentrated sales days to a longer "Black November" reflects retailers' strategies to manage delivery demands and customer expectations. Earlier discounts create a "fear of missing out," driving sales, and spreading deliveries over time improves logistics efficiency. This trend counters the potential negative impact of reduced transaction numbers on peak sales days.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the shift from concentrated Black Friday spending to a longer sales period as a primarily positive development, highlighting the benefits for retailers and logistics. While acknowledging some consumer criticism, the overall tone suggests that the spread of sales is an efficient and largely beneficial change. The headline (if there was one) and introduction would likely reinforce this framing.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and descriptive. The use of terms like "grauwe" (grey) to describe Black Friday could be interpreted as slightly negative but is also arguably factual based on the data presented. There are no overtly loaded terms or emotionally charged language.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the economic impact of Black Friday in the Netherlands, using data from payment processors. It omits discussion of the environmental impact of increased consumption and shipping during this period, as well as the potential social impact of consumerism and the pressure it puts on individuals. While acknowledging space constraints is reasonable, including a brief mention of these broader consequences would provide a more complete picture.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of consumer behavior, focusing primarily on the "spreading out" effect of sales. While it acknowledges some consumer criticism of Black Friday, it does not delve into the complexities of consumer motivations or the potential for manipulation through marketing tactics. The narrative leans towards a neutral presentation of the economic data, without fully exploring the ethical or social implications.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses the 'Black Friday' and 'Cyber Monday' sales events, highlighting their impact on consumer behavior and the environment. The excessive consumption promoted during these events contradicts the principles of responsible consumption and production, leading to increased waste and environmental strain. The spread of sales over a longer period ('Black November') doesn't negate this negative impact, it simply changes its distribution. The quote mentioning "nepkorting" (fake discounts) further emphasizes the unsustainable aspects of these sales.