What: Three different approaches to the upcoming promotional season.

Why it is important: reviewing the options taken in a competitive FMCG segment can be sources of inspiration for department stores while some of them are currently closed due to forced lockdown.

Black Friday is usually a traditional shopping experience in the US across a weekend, with long lines outside stores. This year will be different:

• Walmart is expanding its promotional period over four weeks, with deals centred on toys, electronics and home products (one category per week).  A limitation of customers in store will be implemented, as the goal remains to have them come to the retailer
• Best Buy is sprinkling promotions over four weeks, with an all-category promotion after that period. There will be a limitation of customers instore, however Best Buy is insisting on its curb side pickup options, as well as a free next day delivery (read out article aboutthe cost of free shipping here).
• Target will be announcing each Thursday the deals for the following week, with a promotional period extended over four weeks as well. A focus on curb side delivery will be emphasized, as well as the lowest-price-guarantee for all items on promotion.

The three retail giants are all extending the promotional period over four weeks, and not a week end, but with a different approach when it comes to dealing with welcoming the customers and how.

Walmart, Target, and Best Buy have revealed their Black Friday plans [...]