With Black Friday finally here, and Cyber Monday just around the corner, shoppers are ready to take advantage of discounts, while retailers aim to boost sales ahead of the holiday season. These highly anticipated sales events, which align with the monthly payday for many, present both opportunities for savings and challenges for potential scams.
President of Athens Trade Association, Stavros Kafounis, encouraged consumers to support local businesses that play a vital role in the economy. “The major offers that will appear in stores are the result of hard preparation and great effort, with one and only goal: the satisfaction of the consumer, whose disposable income has been dramatically reduced by the high costs of recent years.”
Stores in Greece can opt to open on Sunday, December 1, the weekend after Black Friday, and will continue to operate on Sundays (bar December 8) as the holiday season officially kicks off.
Consumer Precautions During Black Friday and Cyber Monday
While the allure of discounts is strong, consumers are advised to shop wisely. The Consumer’s Ombudsman and the Greek European Consumer Center offered some critical tips:
- Verify Discounts: Not all advertised discounts are genuine. Compare prices over time using online tools to ensure deals are authentic.
- Choose Reputable Retailers: Prioritize stores with good reputations and an established market presence. Positive reviews and recommendations can guide choices.
- Avoid Suspicious Online Shops: Be cautious of retailers operating solely through social media without clear contact information or business registrations.
- Secure Transactions: Shop on websites with SSL certification (indicated by “https”) and avoid storing sensitive information on unfamiliar sites. Never make purchases while connected to public Wi-Fi.
- Check Total Costs: Additional charges such as shipping, insurance, and payment fees can inflate the final price. Review the total cost before completing transactions.
- Beware of Phishing Scams: During the sales period, phishing attempts often spike. Be wary of unsolicited emails offering extreme discounts, as they may contain malicious links or attachments.
- Stick to Your Budget: Sales events can encourage overspending. Focus on items that address actual needs and align with your financial plan.
