HELLO GOOD BUY: BLACK FRIDAY’S HERE

TODAY isn’t Friday the 13th but a US retail tradition has today as Black Friday and that means sales are on everywhere, even Down Under.

For Gold Coasters it’s a good chance to attack the Christmas shopping.

The US sale, held the day after Thanksgiving, draws crowds of millions to stores around the country.

Pacific Fair’s senior marketing manager Kate Halpin said although it isn’t a traditional sale period in Australia, its popularity has risen in recent years.

“When international brands established stores here they always celebrated it. It’s a huge tradition and online retail has also caught on to it,” she said.

“We’ve had people emailing us and through social media asking when it’s going to be released, so it feels like there’s more interest and understanding in it this year at an Australian level.”

The excitement has spread to other centres on the Gold Coast – Westfield Coomera centre manager Lauren Frew said massive crowds were expected during the weekend.

“Black Friday has really become a key moment on

the Australian retail calendar and we are excited that many of our retailers are taking part,” she said.

“Our customers will be able to save across all categories including homewares, electronics, fashion and beauty, as the sale runs over four days for many of our retailers.

“And with only one month to go until it is Christmas, this weekend is when we really see gift buying ramp up.”