International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management

Purpose – The purpose of the present study is to explore the collective consumption rituals associated with Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, and one of the largest shopping days in the USA.

Design/methodology/approach – The research design for this study followed the approach of psychological phenomenological interviewing. Over a two-year period, the authors, along with trained research assistants, conducted interviews with experienced female Black Friday shoppers.

Findings – Qualitative data from 38 interviews indicated that Black Friday shopping activities constitute a collective consumption ritual that is practiced and shared by multiple generations of female family members and close friends. Four themes emerged from the data: familial bonding, strategic planning, the great race, and mission accomplished. The themes coalesced around a military metaphor.

Practical implications – The findings of this study indicate that Black Friday shoppers plan for the ritual by examining advertisements and strategically mapping out their plans for the day. Recommendations for retailers are presented.

Originality/value – This exploratory investigation of Black Friday as a consumption ritual offers new insight into the planning and shopping associated with this well-known American pseudo-holiday. Findings also extend theory and research on collective consumption rituals.