• In just three days, the retailer has sold enough sugar to sweeten more than 70 million cups of coffee
• Research shows evolution of Black Friday from splurging frenzy to carefully planned savings opportunity

Pick n Pay has put everyday staple grocery items front and centre for Black Friday, responding to a growing trend among shoppers to prioritise essential purchases during the annual sales event.

The company’s decision to prioritise staples is paying off, and over just three days (Friday–Sunday), Pick n Pay sold enough sugar to sweeten over 70 million cups of coffee and enough rice to serve over two million meals.

The retailer launched its Early Black Friday deals on the weekend and reported strong customer support for the promotional items in-store and across its online platforms, pnp.co.za and Pick n Pay asap!.

Basic staple items like sugar, rice, toilet paper, and nappies were the major contributors. Pick n Pay’s private label was one of the top-selling brands, adding to the exceptional everyday value this range already offers across various product categories. Other top sellers included cool drinks and cereals.

Reflecting on the top sellers this past week, Tessa Chamberlain, Marketing Director at Pick n Pay, says staple items are increasingly dominating shopping trolleys and online carts.

An online survey by Chirp, which surveyed 1,000 South African shoppers post-Black Friday weekend last year, showed that 84% took advantage of Black Friday deals. Of those shoppers, 74% prioritised groceries, followed by clothing (42%), alcohol (24%), electronics, and appliances (22% and 21%, respectively).

“Black Friday has evolved from a frenzy of splurging into a highly anticipated savings opportunity. Many customers now carefully plan their shopping lists to make the most of the deals, and we work nearly a year in advance with suppliers to ensure we deliver unbeatable value that helps households stretch their budgets,” says Chamberlain.

The retailer currently also has deals running for general merchandise items, ranging from electronics to big appliances and homeware, which remain popular for some. “While groceries are a priority, deals on electronics, home appliances, and even pool equipment remain Black Friday favourites. Electronics and large appliances are always in demand during Black Friday, as customers use the opportunity to upgrade their homes or buy gifts,” added Chamberlain.

Pick n Pay will again amplify customer Black Friday savings this year through its Smart Shopper loyalty programme and its new partnership with FNB eBucks, offering these customers even greater discounts.

“Pick n Pay’s early Black Friday deals were a hit, and we have even bigger savings and more products later this month. From essentials to electronics, enhanced through loyalty rewards, we look forward to helping customers save on needed items so they can also spend on the products they want,” concludes Chamberlain.