Black Friday is here and the Better Business Bureau Serving Eastern North Carolina wants people to be smart shoppers as they look for the best holiday deals.
Instead of setting an alarm to brave crowds for deeply discounted items, dedicated shoppers are expected to look for deals online, similar to last year -- that is, if they haven't already finished their holiday shopping.
Changes like shipping delays, hiring challenges and microchip shortages, are impacting how people will shop. Retail experts are predicting higher than normal crowds in the stores and increased percentages in spending on gifts, decorations, and other holiday-related items.
If you do decide to shop in person on Black Friday, the Better Business Bureau offers says planning ahead will make it go more smoothly; they added shoppers should make sure to read product reviews on extremely discounted items and know the return policy and warranty information before purchasing.