SALT LAKE CITY — The day after Thanksgiving has grown to be known as Black Friday. Traditionally, it is the single-busiest shopping day of the year.

According to the Better Business Bureau, retail experts are expecting higher-than-normal crowds. Additionally, experts are also predicting a higher increase in spending on holiday-related items, such as gifts and decorations.

Despite that, the BBB also says last year’s trend of shoppers staying home and shopping online is likely to continue this year.

“Changes, such as shipping delays, hiring challenges, and microchip shortages, are impacting how people will shop this year,” said Jane Rupp, President and CEO of BBB in a news release. “That makes it even more important to ensure consumers are educated on making the best purchase decisions possible.”

Black Friday tips

The BBB offers seven tips to keep in mind, if you plan to shop in person on Black Friday.

• Research the best deals and signup for email alerts: Often times, businesses announce their best Black Friday deals and exclusive coupons to those customers, who have signed up for their emails.
• Read the fine print: Be on the lookout for companies who may be advertising high percentages off. Many times, according to the BBB, an item may be marked up to 70% off. However, original price could be inflated.
• Plan ahead: Make a list of stores you want to visit and the items you want at each business.
• Read product and retailer reviews: This is a good way to avoid getting scammed, according to the BBB. If a deal is too good to be true, it likely is.
• Understand the return policy and warranty information: It’s best to know what a store’s return policy is before making a purchase, according to the BBB. Gift receipts are an ideal way for people to return or exchange the gift.
• Don’t give in to holiday pressure: Black Friday can generate high-pressure shopping. The BBB says it’s better to miss out on a deal, rather than lose your money.
• Include small, locally owned businesses in your shopping: In person visits can help lift local shops that likely don’t have a large online presence.

For additional online shopping tips, click here. For tips on avoiding holiday scams, click here. 

Related reading:

• At least 30 people burglarize a Best Buy in Minnesota on Black Friday
• Black Friday sees record online as US shoppers stay home

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