20 November 2023 , 11:09
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Money guru Martin Lewis has issued a message to shoppers as lots of big retailers launch their Black Friday sales. The annual shopping event sees UK shoppers spend millions as plenty of eye-catching deals fly off the shelves.
But it pays to take a step back and consider if what you're buying is something you really need, and can actually afford. It's a point Martin Lewis stressed as he tweeted to his 2.5million followers about the launch of Amazon's Black Friday sales.
He said on X, formerly Twitter: "Amazon has launched its Black Friday offerings, my team have been through to try and sort deals from duds... https://moneysavingexpert.com/deals/amazon/#55226… PS remember only buy what you planned to, don't let it tempt you just because its cheaper."
Earlier in the week, in a message during his Money Show Live broadcast on ITV, Martin warned bargain hunters to only buy what they need. Martin said: "If you were going to buy it anyway and it is half price you have saved 50%. But if you weren't going to buy it but do cos it's half price you have wasted 100% of your money."
Martin also urged people to “be careful” and do their research first - as not all discounts are as good as they seem. The MSE founder has also said shoppers should spend within their means at Christmas, to avoid a financial "hangover" in 2024. Martin added: "Christmas has become a retail festival and it shouldn't be. It should be joyous, but causes some people unhappiness, debt and worry."
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Black Friday doesn't actually fall until November 24 this year, but with retailers keen to tempt us to part with our hard-earned cash, more brands than ever before have pushed the button on some huge discounts early, including not just Amazon but also eBay, Shark, Ninja, Lakeland, Sky, Oodie, Currys, Boots, LookFantastic and more.