Every November, my inbox starts to explode with promises of the “biggest” Black Friday ever.
Subject lines shout about massive discounts, one-day-only offers, and “exclusive” deals I never signed up for. And every year, I quietly think to myself — if anyone needs to offer Black Friday specials, it’s petrol garages.
Fuel is officially a luxury item now. Each time I fill up, I whisper a small prayer and avoid eye contact with the total on the screen. A “fill up and get one litre free” deal would heal this country more than any flat-screen TV ever could.
The State of Black Friday 2025
But jokes aside, this year feels different. The economy is tight. Groceries cost more. Rent is higher. And the gap between what we earn and what we spend keeps widening.
So, yes — Black Friday 2025 comes with mixed feelings. We still love a good bargain, but it’s harder to get excited when you’re counting every rand.
That’s why I find it interesting how brands are trying to innovate. It’s not just about cutting prices anymore. It’s about creating value that makes sense for where people are.
Take Checkers, for example. Their new campaign, “Orange is the New Black,” is both subtle and clever. No loud sale signs. No screaming headlines. Just confidence and quiet creativity. It’s marketing that respects the customer — something we don’t see enough of these days.
The New Way to Shop
Black Friday used to be a bit of chaos — long queues, rushed carts, and buyers’ remorse by December. But South Africans are becoming smarter shoppers. We’re comparing prices, setting budgets, and thinking before we swipe.
Online shopping has taken over, and honestly, I prefer it that way. There’s something peaceful about scrolling from your couch with a cup of tea instead of standing in a crowded mall.
Still, this is the season for overpromising. Some stores hike prices before the sale, only to “slash” them back down. If you’re planning to shop, check your facts. Know what things cost before Black Friday arrives. Make a list. Stick to it.
Because sometimes, the best way to save money is not to spend it at all.
The Deals We Actually Need
If I could plan my own South African Black Friday, it wouldn’t look like what’s in the flyers. It would look something like this:
- Petrol garages: Buy one litre, get one free.
- Supermarkets: Free nappies with every grocery run.
- Hair salons: Half-price wash days for moms who’ve been “making a plan” all year.
- Restaurants: Two-for-one meals, because joy should still taste good.
- Eskom: Free electricity weekends. (We can dream.)
- Gyms: Join now, pay in February — by then, motivation might be back.
These are the deals that would actually make sense in 2025.
Beyond the Discounts
This year, I’m learning to see Black Friday differently. It’s not just about buying things cheaper — it’s about understanding what value means.
Value is a tank of petrol that lasts the week.
It’s a grocery trip where you still have change left for bread.
It’s peace of mind when your child’s needs are met and the lights stay on.
So maybe the best deal isn’t out there. Maybe it’s already in the quiet moments we overlook — gratitude, contentment, and small mercies that money can’t buy.
If you do shop this year, may your purchases bring you joy, not guilt. And if you skip the sales entirely, may you still feel rich in all the ways that matter.
(But if a petrol garage does announce a Black Friday special, please let me know. I’ll be the first in line.)
