Black Friday's around the corner, and it's not just a shopping frenzy; it's a fantastic chance for your business to shine.
What are the best Black Friday marketing tactics for small businesses?
The best Black Friday marketing tactics are time-limited flash sales that create urgency, bundled offers that lift average order value, exclusive deals available only over the Black Friday weekend, targeted digital marketing across email and social media, and personalised promotions based on customer data. Combining a few of these with a clear value message works better than simply cutting prices.
Wondering how to stand out and boost your sales?
Let’s dive into some easy, smart marketing tactics to make Black Friday work wonders for you.
Whether you're starting out or already a pro, these tips are going to give you that extra edge.
So, let's get cracking and turn this Black Friday into your business's best day yet!
What is the meaning of Black Friday deals?
Black Friday marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. Originally a US tradition, it has gained immense popularity in the UK and worldwide. It's characterised by significant discounts and special offers, attracting a large number of consumers eager to snag deals.
But just how long can you expect this shopping bonanza to last?
How long does Black Friday last?
Traditionally, Black Friday was a one-day event following Thanksgiving in the US. However, it has evolved into a longer period, often extending over the weekend until Cyber Monday. Some retailers even start their deals earlier in the week.
So, when does this shopping spree actually start?
What time does Black Friday start?
Black Friday typically starts at midnight on the day after Thanksgiving. However, with the rise of online shopping, many deals go live at the stroke of midnight, enabling shoppers to take advantage of offers right away.
Now, let's explore the marketing aspect of this event.
When is Black Friday? Black Friday always falls on the day after the US Thanksgiving holiday, the fourth Friday in November, so the date moves each year. In 2025 it lands on 28 November, and in 2026 it falls on 27 November. Cyber Monday follows on the next Monday.
What is Black Friday Marketing?
Black Friday marketing involves strategies and campaigns designed to attract customers through deals and promotions. It's a critical time for businesses to increase sales, acquire new customers, and clear out inventory.
So, how can you effectively promote your business during this time?

How do you promote on Black Friday?
| Tactic | What it does | Best for |
| Time-limited / flash sales | Creates urgency with the fear of missing out | Clearing stock and driving fast conversions |
| Bundled offers | Raises average order value | Cross-selling related products |
| Exclusive deals | Rewards loyalty with weekend-only offers | Attracting new and repeat customers |
| Digital marketing | Promotes deals via email, social and ads | Reaching a wide audience quickly |
| Personalised promotions | Tailors offers using customer data | Boosting loyalty and repeat purchases |
Time-Limited Sales:
Create urgency with flash sales or hourly deals. This tactic, leveraging the fear of missing out, can significantly boost sales.
Many major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy often use time-limited sales during Black Friday. They create hourly deals or "lightning deals" that offer significant discounts for a short period, creating a sense of urgency among shoppers.
![]()
Bundled Offers:
Bundle related products or services at a discounted rate. This not only increases the average order value but also enhances the customer shopping experience.
Companies like Microsoft and Apple have been known to bundle products during Black Friday. For instance, offering a free accessory with the purchase of a laptop or a smartphone.

Exclusive Deals:
Offer special discounts or products available only during the Black Friday period. This can attract both new and existing customers.
This strategy is a staple for many brands. For example, fashion retailers like Zara or electronics companies like Sony might offer special discounts on specific items only available during Black Friday.

Digital Marketing:
Utilise email marketing, social media, and online advertising to promote your Black Friday deals. Tailor your messaging to highlight the uniqueness and time sensitivity of the offers.
For instance, Target and Walmart ramp up their email marketing, social media posts, and online ads to promote their Black Friday deals.
Personalized Promotions:
Use customer data to offer personalised deals. This can increase customer loyalty and satisfaction.
Brands like Netflix or Spotify might use customer data to offer personalized Black Friday promotions, like discounted subscription plans based on viewing or listening history.

Collaborations and Partnerships:
Partner with other businesses to offer combined deals, expanding your reach and customer base.
For example, a tech company might partner with a software provider to offer a combined hardware-software deal at a reduced price.
But it doesn’t stop there.
Many brands often team up with social media influencers, as seen in cases like fashion brands partnering with popular TikTok creators. These collaborations focus on creating engaging content about upcoming Black Friday sales.
By leveraging the influencer's significant social media presence and engagement, your brand can effectively broaden their reach and amplify their Black Friday promotions, leading to an increase in audience and sales.

Black Friday is more than just a day of discounts; it's a strategic opportunity for businesses to boost sales, attract new clients and customers, and enhance brand visibility.
By implementing a unique blend of strategies and understanding consumer psychology, businesses can effectively capitalise on this event.
Remember, it's not just about slashing prices but offering value and a memorable shopping experience.
If a sales surge pushes your turnover up, plan ahead by reading our guides on VAT registration for UK ecommerce sellers and the best online marketplaces to sell your products.
Got any Black Friday success tips? We're eager to hear from fellow business owners. Share your best strategies in the comments below!
FAQs
When is Black Friday in 2025 and 2026?
Black Friday falls on 28 November 2025 and 27 November 2026. It is always the fourth Friday in November, the day after the US Thanksgiving holiday, with Cyber Monday following on the next Monday.
How can a small business compete with big retailers on Black Friday?
Focus on value and experience rather than the deepest discount. Bundled offers, exclusive weekend-only deals, personalised promotions to your existing customers, and fast, friendly service let smaller businesses stand out where they cannot win on price alone.
Do I need to charge VAT on Black Friday discounts?
If you are VAT-registered, you charge VAT on the discounted price the customer actually pays, not the original price. If a Black Friday surge pushes your rolling 12-month turnover over the £90,000 VAT threshold (per HMRC), you will need to register for VAT.








