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James Batchelor

What exactly IS Black Friday?

As an American living in France, I often notice little reminders of home, especially during the holiday season. But one thing that has caught my attention is the rise of Black Friday here in France—and even in my own neighborhood in Vincennes. Walking through town last year, I saw shop windows covered with posters advertising sales and discounts. From major chain stores to smaller boutiques, it seemed like everyone was celebrating Black Friday.


It made me wonder: How did this very American tradition, rooted in the post-Thanksgiving rush to kick off holiday shopping, find its way across the Atlantic? And how has it evolved to suit the unique tastes and habits of French consumers?


In this article, I’ll explore the history of Black Friday, its transformation in the United States, and its fascinating journey into French culture—including how it’s becoming a staple even here in Vincennes.


Origins of Black Friday in the USA

Black Friday has long been associated with the day after Thanksgiving in the United States, marking the start of the holiday shopping season. Initially used in the 1950s by Philadelphia police to describe chaotic post-



Thanksgiving crowds, the term "Black Friday" later gained a more positive connotation. Retailers embraced the phrase in the 1980s to signify a financial turning point—moving from "red" (losses) to "black" (profits) in their accounting.


Over the decades, Black Friday evolved into a cultural phenomenon, characterized by midnight openings, doorbuster deals, and bustling stores. For many Americans, it symbolizes the unofficial start of the festive season.


Black Friday Arrives in France

Black Friday made its way to France in the early 2010s, driven largely by globalized marketing strategies and e-commerce giants like Amazon. Initially, the concept seemed foreign to French consumers, who don’t celebrate Thanksgiving. Yet, the promise of discounts and pre-holiday deals soon won them over.


By 2014, major French retailers such as FNAC and Auchan had jumped on the bandwagon, offering significant promotions. The event has since become a fixture of the French shopping calendar, often spanning multiple days and catering to the local market’s preferences.



Here in Vincennes, I’ve noticed how this once-American tradition is becoming a local event. Walking through the streets during Black Friday, it’s clear that businesses of all sizes participate. Bright posters in shop windows announce discounts, and even smaller boutiques join the action, offering deals on everything from clothing to home goods.


It’s fascinating to see how a global tradition can be embraced at a local level. For many businesses in Vincennes, Black Friday isn’t just about sales—it’s an opportunity to connect with customers and encourage holiday shopping in the community.


Current Trends and Criticisms

While Black Friday continues to grow in popularity in France, it has also sparked debates about consumerism and its environmental impact. Movements like "Green Friday" have emerged, encouraging sustainable shopping practices and challenging the excesses associated with the day.



Despite these criticisms, many French consumers appreciate the chance to secure deals, especially with the rise of online shopping. Retailers are finding ways to balance promotional activities with environmental and social responsibility.


Conclusion

From its origins in post-Thanksgiving America to its current role in French shopping culture, Black Friday has traveled a long way—both geographically and conceptually. Here in Vincennes, it’s amazing to see how this tradition has been adopted and adapted, becoming a moment for businesses to shine and for consumers to find great deals.


Whether you’re in the mood to shop or just curious about the evolution of this day, Black Friday in France offers a unique perspective on how traditions can cross borders and evolve in unexpected ways.

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