Cherry Hill Mall Attracts Philly-Area Black Friday Shoppers with Holiday Traditions Beyond Just Discounts
As the holiday shopping season commences, many consumers are reconnecting with time-honored traditions, particularly on Black Friday. At the Cherry Hill Mall in New Jersey, shoppers eagerly engaged in another year of the retail phenomenon, despite ongoing economic and inflationary pressures. This year, Stephanie Greenleaf initiated her festive shopping spree on what has become a regional ritual, joining family members early Friday morning after hosting Thanksgiving dinner. They embarked on their Black Friday adventure at Nordstrom, before moving on to various stores, including Soma and Urban Outfitters, to secure gifts for their loved ones.
The atmosphere at the Cherry Hill Mall was vibrant, with shoppers arriving early, carrying shopping bags and enjoying seasonal beverages. Store displays featured trendy items like puffer jackets and collectibles that have captured the interest of young consumers, while teenagers flocked to popular retailers such as Abercrombie and Zara. Retailers varied in their experiences, with some reporting a steady flow of customers, while others noted a more subdued atmosphere than in previous years, reflecting the ongoing challenges posed by rising prices and the digital shopping landscape.
The term “Black Friday,” originating in Philadelphia during the 1960s, has evolved significantly. Originally associated with the influx of tourists arriving for the Army-Navy football game, the term has since been adopted to signify the day retailers transition from losses to profits. What once was a singular event has transformed into an expansive season of promotional strategies, fueled by the rise of e-commerce, compelling businesses to attract customers both online and in physical stores. According to Barbara Kahn, a marketing professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, retailers are now navigating an “omni-channel experience,” balancing traditional in-store sales with digital offerings.
The nostalgia attached to Black Friday remains potent, as many shoppers expressed that their participation was driven more by tradition and the experience of shopping than by the lure of discounted prices. Some, like Karrim Gordon, sought to impart the experience of Black Friday shopping to their children, while others, like Daniel Leslie, seized opportunities for significant savings, finding compelling deals that justified early morning shopping. Despite underlying economic concerns, shoppers like Alicia Hall reaffirmed their commitment to retail therapy, viewing it as a deserved reward for hard work.
Ultimately, the enduring appeal of Black Friday endures against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, with shoppers keen to partake in an experience that bridges nostalgia and the excitement of the holiday shopping season.
For those interested in engaging with this shopping tradition, early preparation and understanding the evolving landscape of retail can enhance the Black Friday shopping experience.
