Every year, millions of people in Spain look forward to Black Friday to buy Christmas gifts or upgrade electronics at attractive prices. However, not every deal that looks appealing actually helps you save money. Consumer protection experts warn: many stores use clever tactics to create the illusion of big discounts.
How artificial discount schemes work
One of the most common tricks is gradually raising product prices in the weeks leading up to the sale. When Black Friday arrives, the price drops back to its original level, but is advertised as a ‘unique offer’. Shoppers see what appears to be a huge discount, yet end up paying the same amount as a month ago. This practice is more widespread than most people think, and is especially prevalent during major promotion periods.
Consumers who don’t monitor price changes can easily fall for this trick. As a result, they buy items that could have cost them less at other times of the year. Experts recommend not giving in to the hype and carefully analyzing offers to avoid becoming a victim of marketing manipulation.
Tools for checking real discounts
To avoid falling for fake discounts, experts recommend using special services that track price history. These platforms let you see how a product’s price has changed over the past months. This helps determine whether the price has truly dropped or if the store simply returned it to its previous level after an artificial markup.
It’s especially important to check price trends for popular items—smartphones, home appliances, and electronics. These categories are most often targeted for manipulation during major sales events. Spending just a few minutes analyzing prices can help you avoid unnecessary spending and disappointment.
Tips for Smart Shopping
Experts advise not to rush into purchases, even if an offer seems extremely attractive. It’s better to compare prices across different stores, read reviews, and resist advertising pressure. Stores often create a false sense of urgency to push impulse buys. However, taking a calm and thoughtful approach is what truly helps you save money.
Before placing an order, check whether the price has been inflated in recent weeks. If the difference between the “old” and “new” price is minimal, the discount is likely fake. This approach helps you avoid disappointment and keep your budget on track.
Why You Should Stay Vigilant During Sales
As the New Year holidays approach, many Spaniards are planning major purchases. During this period, stores ramp up their use of marketing tricks to boost sales. Understanding the main deception schemes and being able to analyze offers are essential skills for any shopper.
Consumer rights experts urge people not to trust bold promises and to always verify information independently. Only this way can you avoid unnecessary spending and truly benefit from seasonal promotions. A mindful approach to shopping is the best way to protect yourself from disappointment and keep your family budget intact.
