Codacons: about 27 million Italians ready to shop, + 8% on 2020
Black Friday 2021 officially kicks off on November 26th. About 27 million Italians are ready to make purchases, with an increase in buyers of + 8% compared to 2020. This was stated by Codacons, which disseminates forecasts on the trend of the week of extraordinary discounts online and in physical stores throughout Italy. At the moment 27 million compatriots are determined to take advantage of the promotions linked to Black Friday to buy products for themselves or for the home and anticipate Christmas gifts. There is also “a large slice of undecided consumers, who will evaluate purchases based on the offers and discounts offered online and in stores, and who will decide at the last minute if and how to shop”.
At the top of the ranking of the most popular products during Black Friday once again electronics and hi-tech, a sector where about 60% of consumers intend to make at least one purchase, according to Codacons. Interest is growing in the clothing, footwear and accessories sector, which will involve 50% of citizens who will take advantage of the discounts, and that of health and beauty products (20%).
The opportunity will also be used to make purchases related to the upcoming holidays: 39% of Christmas gifts will be purchased during the discount week at the end of November, in order to contain spending and save the wallet, estimates the Codacons. As for the purchasing channels, 61% of purchases will take place online, while 39% of shopping will be concentrated in physical stores. “On the other hand, there is great uncertainty about the budget to be allocated to promotions: the unknowns on the economic and health situation of the country, the tensions on the front of prices and bills could determine a reduction in the value of the average receipts compared to last year”.
Codacons warns consumers of possible scams during Black Friday, ” always lurking especially when buying on the web ”, and spreads useful tips to avoid ” rip-offs and unpleasant surprises ”: purchased only from Internet sites safe, protected by international security systems, recognizable by the presence of the padlock in the address bar; buy only from safe sellers. Check that the data of the company that owns the commercial activity are correctly reported in the feedback; always compare prices, both online and in physical stores. Beware of too high discounts.
The association also suggests to check that it is reported in addition to the initial price of the product also the final one, including shipping costs or taxes, check the shipping date and always check where the product is shipped from and always keep a copy of the order placed and verify that there is the possibility of canceling it without paying penalties.
On the web it is suggested to pay either by paypal or prepaid cards (better to avoid bank transfers or credit cards), and never communicate your personal data, either by phone or by email. Never enter private data online. And remember that by law, merchandise can be returned when purchased outside physical stores within 14 days. For online purchases, check the withdrawal conditions applied by the online seller and remember that the guarantee also applies to products purchased online. If the product or service purchased has a lack of conformity or production, you are entitled to a replacement or refund, remember the Codacons.
Source-www.adnkronos.com