Tips for UAE customers, retailers to get the best out of White Friday

Whether you are a traditional or an online retailer, a last-mile logistics provider, or a consumer, you must be gearing up for White Friday, the Middle East’s version of Black Friday. Since the concept was introduced in 2014, its popularity has grown each year.

For the consumer, it is an opportunity to bag a bundle of the best brands at bargain prices. For the retailer, it is a chance to boost revenues in the year’s final quarter. And for logistics providers, it is an occasion when they can test their mettle with a deluge of deliveries.

Whether you are a shopper, a seller or a delivery provider, you will get more from White Friday with a little preparation. Below is a roundup of tips that could get you ready to cash in while the big day stands a few days away.

Retailers – take your marks

As a seller, you should already have begun executing your White Friday marketing strategy. Lest you haven’t, not much is lost. Now is the time to get on your social media podium, and announce the discounts and offers to tempt those shoppers waiting for the big day.

However, don’t show all your cards up front. It is a great idea to have some surprise deals prepared, and to build shopper interest by promoting them—without revealing all the specifics—via social media posts and outreach emails.

Remember, savvy shoppers will be preparing in advance of the day too, and you would want your store to be the one they hit first.

So, craft some tempting messages, make sure you replenish your inventory, and line up some extra customer service staff for the inevitable influx of calls. Then you can be ahead of the pack on White Friday.

Consumers – get set

If you are planning to be a White Friday shopper, you shouldn’t skip the retailer’s advice above. Skim through for a quick read.

Why? Because sellers heeding that advice will be pulling their socks up to promote their offerings on social media platforms.

While White Friday is full of opportunities for impulse purchases, a little planning and preparation can reap big rewards. Now is the time to take a look at any up-front information you can find from brands and sellers participating in the event. You may find that one special something that has caught your fancy since ages.

Scour for deals aligned to your wish list. Do a quick internet recon. Check out the social media pages of specialist sellers and other retailers.

Chalking out a plan to shop for what you need will yield better results – and less regret – than a whimsical spending spree much after the event gets rolling.

Logistics providers – go, go, go!

Logistics providers would know that customer acquisition is far more costly than retention of old ones. White Friday will be an event when regular patrons will rely on you to uphold an extend sublime customer experience. So think of how you can support those key accounts in fulfilling high order volumes efficiently and reasonably.

Do a recon of your resources to see if you can handle a spike in volumes.

Prep-Up for a brighter, whiter Friday
Whether you are a shopper, seller, or carrier, White Friday is an opportunity not to be missed.

Preparing well-ahead is the key to a successful run at one of the most anticipated events for all. So spend time wisely and go ahead all guns blazing.

Borhene Ben Mena is the CEO of Shipa Delivery