While Black Friday crowds at brick and mortar retail stores have been dwindling over the last 10 years, it is still very much an early morning custom for many Georgia residents. The Peach State’s early Black Friday shoppers stand out nationwide for their determination to secure the best deals.
A survey by Red Stag Fulfillment revealed key trends in their habits and attitudes toward the shopping event.
Just the Facts:
• Georgia shoppers begin their online Black Friday hunts as early as 4:20 a.m., slightly ahead of the national average start time of 4:36 a.m.
• Early risers from South Dakota and Vermont shop at 1 a.m., while Mississippi starts latest at 8:24 a.m.
• 43% of surveyed shoppers cite slow internet as a major hurdle, with missed deals due to poor connectivity.
• Half of Georgian shoppers plan their Black Friday shopping a week in advance, while 29% start two weeks ahead and 12% a month ahead.
The Details: Popular items with discounts often exceeding 50% attract shoppers who meticulously research store hours, inventory, and sale timings. Georgia shoppers describe the day using words like “Exciting” (20%), “Worthwhile” (17%), and “Chaotic” (15%). Meanwhile, 14% find it “Stressful,” reflecting the intensity of the event.
Why It Matters: Black Friday shopping isn’t just about savings; it reflects regional preferences and challenges, including internet access disparities.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
