Matthew A. Gilbert, MBA, is a lecturer of marketing at Coastal Carolina University, teaching courses in advertising, personal selling, and principles of marketing. His academic research focuses on artificial intelligence, marketing technology, the sharing economy, social media marketing, and sports marketing. A charismatic communicator, he facilitated professional development workshops and delivered three TEDx Talks. He is a prolific writer who has published articles, book chapters, short stories, and textbooks. As a consultant, he crafts marketing content, creates business curriculum, and composes professional communications.
"If you are tempted to buy something just because you feel it's a great deal, you're being persuaded to buy something you don't need and don't want." -- Newsweek
"Consumers can judge if these deals are legitimate by identifying products they want to get and thoroughly researching them ahead of time." -- Newsweek
"Consumers should carefully consider promotions for products with a limited supply. This tactic creates demand based on artificial scarcity and often triggers impulse decisions based on a fear of missing out, not an actual need for the item." -- Newsweek
The article analyzes a study revealing the top retailers for Black Friday discounts, highlighting that JCPenney and Macy's offer some of the most significant price reductions. I emphasized that consumers should focus on value rather than just discounts, as inflated pre-sale prices or lower-quality items can undermine the actual benefits of these deals.
The article discusses the increasing prevalence of shrinkflation, where companies reduce product sizes while maintaining prices, as a strategy to manage rising costs without alarming consumers. I pointed out that shrinkflation can erode consumer trust over time, emphasizing the importance of transparency and value-based communication to maintain brand loyalty amidst this practice.
The article examines the best and worst items to purchase during Black Friday sales, providing insights to help consumers make informed decisions. I emphasized the importance of thorough research and strategic planning to maximize savings and avoid common pitfalls during the shopping season.