Every November, as the holiday season creeps closer, an unstoppable force takes over: Black Friday. It’s the day shoppers wait for, big brands prepare for, and small businesses dread.

But behind the doorbuster deals and flashy promotions lies a truth worth uncovering. Let’s take a closer look at Black Friday, what it means for businesses big and small, and how you can make better choices during the chaos.

What Is Black Friday?

Black Friday lands the day after Thanksgiving in the United States and has become a global shopping frenzy. Black Friday 2024 in Ireland this year is Friday November 29th. It marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, where discounts and sales drive consumers into stores and online in search of bargains. Black Friday 2023 saw worldwide spending surpass a staggering $70.9 billion, cementing its place as the retail industry’s favourite day of the year.

When Did Black Friday Start?

Black Friday has its roots in the United States, dating back to the 1960s. The term was first used by police in Philadelphia to describe the chaotic traffic and crowds that descended on the city the day after Thanksgiving. Over time, retailers embraced the name, transforming it into a shopping extravaganza. By the 1980s, it became associated with businesses “going into the black” (turning a profit) as shoppers flocked to stores for early holiday deals. In recent years, Black Friday has spread globally, including to Ireland, where it’s now a major event on the retail calendar. But while the day has evolved, the underlying frenzy and focus on overconsumption remain the same.

In Ireland, "Black Friday Harvey Norman" is one of the most Googled terms this time of year. But while big brands thrive, it’s an entirely different story for small businesses. 

Why Small Businesses Can’t Compete with Big Discounts

Let’s get real: small businesses can’t compete with Black Friday deals offered by global giants. Why? Because the economics don’t add up. Big retailers have the advantage of bulk buying and massive economies of scale. They can offer discounts because their margins allow it, and their minimum order quantities (MOQs) are sky-high. That's why, for Black Friday some stores will offer 60% off the price of a tv for example because they've bought thousands of units so their per unit cost is much lower. 

For small businesses, the picture is very different. Sustainable brands like Due South focus on fair production practices, using eco-friendly materials, and reducing waste. Each item is crafted with care, and that quality comes at a cost. Offering slashed prices during Black Friday sales often means eating into profits that small brands simply can’t afford to lose.

Black Friday Deals—But at What Cost?

Those irresistible bargains? They often come with hidden consequences. Large retailers slash prices by cutting corners elsewhere. Many items are mass-produced, meaning higher waste, poorer labour conditions, and a heavy toll on the planet. The focus is on price, not quality or sustainability. So when a brand has a Black Friday sale and the price of the tv was reduced by 70%, it makes you realise the staggering profit margin to begin with.

In contrast, brands like Due South prioritize ethical production, ensuring workers are paid fairly and that our environmental footprint is minimal. This commitment to sustainability means we can’t throw out “70% off” banners—but it also means you’re investing in clothing that lasts, not fast fashion destined for landfill.

How to Support Small Businesses Through Black Friday Madness

The best way to support small businesses during the Black Friday Ireland rush? Shop consciously. Look for brands offering alternatives to mindless consumerism. For example, at Due South, we don’t jump on the Black Friday bandwagon. Instead, we celebrate Green November, where you can save up to 30% on selected designs until Saturday, 30th of November. It’s our way of balancing sustainability with value, ensuring you get premium quality at an honest price.

When you choose small, you’re voting with your wallet for businesses that prioritize people and the planet over profits. You’re also getting unique, high-quality products you won’t find in the aisles of the high street. And you’re often also supporting family run businesses too.

The Hidden Costs of Black Friday Sales

When you buy something on Black Friday, have you ever stopped to wonder: How was this made? What corners were cut? Here’s the truth: that €20 sweater probably cost the planet a whole lot more. The low prices are achieved through:

• Compromised quality: Cheaper materials mean shorter product lifespans. 
• Environmental damage: The carbon footprint of mass production is immense. 
• Excess waste: Unsold inventory often ends up in landfill. 

Sustainable brands like us at Due South approach this differently. We focus on timeless pieces that you’ll wear for years, not just one season so if you want to shop consciously for Christmas presents, now is the time. By investing in better materials and ethical practices, we’re making clothing that aligns with the slow fashion movement.

Choose Quality Over Quantity

As the allure of Black Friday sales sweeps across Ireland like a spell, it’s easy to get caught up in the hype. But take a moment to pause and think: Do I need this? Who made this? What’s the real cost? By choosing small, sustainable brands like Due South, you’re not just buying a product—you’re making a statement.

So this Black Friday, skip the queues, the waste, and the regrets. Instead, opt for conscious shopping with Green November. Together, we can create a better future, one thoughtful purchase at a time.

DUE SOUTH:

Due South is a sustainable and responsible fashion brand based in Dublin. Our unique designs are produced by our founder Paul and showcase all of the beauty and wonders that Ireland has to offer. All our products are made from either 100% organic cotton or 100% recycled materials and are certified vegan friendly. We aim to help protect our planet, for many seasons to come.