Black Friday 2025: Key Dates and When Sales Will Begin

Black Friday 2025 is fast approaching, and South African shoppers are already gearing up for what promises to be one of the biggest retail events of the year. In Gauteng, where shopping malls and online platforms alike experience major footfall and traffic spikes, preparation is key. This guide will help you navigate important dates, major retailers, and the trends shaping this year’s Black Friday.

What is Black Friday 2025?

Black Friday 2025 falls on Friday, 28 November 2025. It follows the American Thanksgiving holiday but has become a huge event in South Africa. Many South African retailers extend deals well beyond a single day, often running specials throughout November.

Why Black Friday 2025 Matters to South African Consumers

With the rising cost of living, South Africans are becoming increasingly price-conscious. Black Friday offers a chance to save significantly on essentials, tech, clothing, and groceries. Shoppers use the event to prepare for the festive season, making this shopping period even more valuable.

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When Will Black Friday 2025 Sales Begin?

Though the official date is 28 November, many major retailers launch deals much earlier. Expect the first promotions to begin in early to mid-November.

Retail trend: South African brands now promote “Black November” to spread out shopping activity. This helps avoid site crashes and long queues.

Top South African Retailers to Watch

1. Takealot

South Africa’s leading online retailer is known for its early deals and wide variety. Look out for its Blue Dot Sale, often beginning a week before Black Friday.

2. Game

Known for major deals on appliances, electronics, and home goods. Their deals usually start two weeks early. Game is part of Massmart, ensuring nationwide availability.

3. Makro

Expect bulk deals and discounts on tech, homeware, and groceries. Makro typically offers both in-store and online promotions.

4. Woolworths

Fashion, homeware, and premium food deals dominate Woolworths Black Friday offers. Expect online-only discounts as well.

5. Checkers / Shoprite

These retailers focus on everyday essentials. With inflation tightening household budgets, affordable food and household goods become high-priority.

When Does Cyber Monday 2025 Take Place?

Cyber Monday will be on Monday, 1 December 2025. It’s the online-focused follow-up to Black Friday. Many retailers extend their Black Friday deals through the weekend until Cyber Monday, offering additional discounts on electronics, fashion, and services.

Prepare Early: Why Timing Matters

Deals move quickly on Black Friday. Stock sells out fast, and technical issues on websites can delay checkout. Here’s how to prepare:

• Subscribe to newsletters from key retailers.
• Create wishlists ahead of time.
• Download retailer apps for early notifications.
• Compare prices using tools like PriceCheck.

Popular Product Categories in 2025

Industry analysts expect continued interest in:

• Smartphones and laptops (due to remote work and school demand)
• Appliances and kitchenware
• Groceries and household items
• Fashion and personal care

Consumers are focusing on practicality and value rather than splurging on luxury items.

Black Friday vs. Black November: What’s the Difference?

Retailers are no longer limiting deals to a single day. Many now promote month-long campaigns:

• Takealot and Makro run early access events.
• Game sometimes offers week-long promotions.
• Fashion brands like Superbalist, Cotton On, and H&M stagger daily deals.

This extended approach helps reduce site overloads and long queues at malls like Sandton City, Mall of Africa, and Menlyn Park.

Online vs. In-store Shopping: What to Expect in Gauteng

More Gauteng residents are shopping online. Still, major malls will see heavy foot traffic. Expect queues and crowd control measures, especially for high-demand electronics and grocery specials.

Retailers offer hybrid models:

• Click-and-collect options
• In-app exclusives
• Online-only flash sales

Payment Trends and Safety Tips

South Africans are increasingly using secure digital payment options:

• Instant EFT
• Debit and credit cards
• Mobile wallets like SnapScan, Zapper, and Apple Pay
• Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options such as PayFlex

Tip: Only shop from trusted platforms. Check for HTTPS in URLs and avoid third-party sellers with no reviews.

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Realistic Expectations: Not Every Deal Is a Bargain

Some retailers inflate original prices before offering “discounts”. Be vigilant. Use tools to track historical pricing or check competitor listings.

Price comparison tools:

• PriceCheck
• Guzzle

Key Dates Summary

Make the Most of Black Friday 2025

Black Friday 2025 is more than a one-day shopping spree. In South Africa, especially Gauteng, it’s a month-long value hunt across online and physical stores. With preparation and a smart strategy, you can secure serious savings.

For the best experience:

• Set a budget.
• Shop early.
• Compare prices.
• Focus on essentials.

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As always, ensure you’re buying from reputable retailers. Deals will be abundant, but not all are equal.

Stay informed by following updates from leading retailers and consumer watchdogs.