Bingeing on Black Friday: Australians set to splurge $7.5 billion on sales
Australians are cashing in on upcoming sales ahead of a busy holiday season, according to new research by Finder.
A nationally representative survey of 1,054 respondents revealed 1 in 2 Australians (48%) – equivalent to 9.6 million people – plan to shop during some of Australia's biggest sale periods.
Black Friday is set to take off in 10 days with a third of Aussies (32%) planning to splash some cash on the sales.
Boxing Day (30%) used to be king, but finishes a close second to Black Friday for the second year in a row.
Finder research found the average Australian is predicted to spend $375 on the upcoming sales season – totalling a whopping $7.5 billion across Australia.
Spending is more common among gen X ($450) and gen Z ($418), while millennials ($320) and baby boomers ($262) will be more vigilant with their money.
Chris Jager, shopping expert at Finder, said with the cost-of-living crisis pushing Australians to the brink, many are looking forward to snagging a bargain.
"Spending has largely been on pause with inflation and financial priorities shifting as Aussies fork up extra cash on everything from groceries to energy bills.
"There are some serious deals to take advantage of if you've had your eye on something for a while, and many of the sales have already begun."
Shoppers plan to purchase everything from clothing and shoes (69%) and electronics and gadgets (36%), to food and alcohol (25%) and furniture (17%).
Jager urged consumers to be cautious and look out for scams ahead of the sales season.
"Never disclose any personal or financial information unless you know the sender and are sure the request is legitimate.
"Avoid clicking on any links or attachments you think look dodgy. It's a good idea to regularly check your banking transactions for any unusual or incorrect debts.
"Stick to reputable retailers. If you're shopping with a new retailer, check for reviews online prior to making a purchase," Jager said.
Men plan to spend 10% more ($397) than women ($360) on the sales frenzies.
| Did you shop OR do you plan to shop during the following sales? | |
|---|---|
| Black Friday | 32% |
| Boxing Day | 30% |
| Cyber Monday | 17% |
| Click Frenzy | 12% |
| Amazon Prime Day | 11% |
| Singles' Day | 3% |
| Vogue Online Shopping Night | 2% |
| None of the above | 52% |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,054 respondents, October 2022 | |
| *Respondents could select all that apply |
| What did you buy OR plan on buying during the sales season this year? | |
|---|---|
| Clothes/shoes | 69% |
| Electronics/gadgets | 36% |
| Beauty/makeup/skincare | 31% |
| Toys | 28% |
| Accessories (e.g. jewellery, handbags, hair clips, etc) | 25% |
| Food/alcohol | 25% |
| Manchester/homewares | 18% |
| Furniture | 17% |
| Travel | 15% |
| Whitegoods | 12% |
| Other | 4% |
| I don't plan on buying anything | 4% |
| Source: Finder survey of 501 respondents that responded "yes" to shopping during the sales season, October 2022 | |
| *Respondents could select all that apply |
Don't wait until November 25. Shop all the Black Friday deals available now.