The 'Black Friday' shopping frenzy returns this week, with shops competing to draw shoppers' attention with special deals. However, some Brussels business owners are going against the grain of this discount period.
Ahead of Black Friday (the retail campaign that follows Thanksgiving Thursday) the City of Brussels is launching the third edition of its "responsible alternative" – Local Friday. The aim is to support local entrepreneurs who focus on quality rather than quantity, as their sales are impacted by the huge discounts offered by global retail chains for Black Friday.
"From Monday 25 November to Sunday 1 December, almost 30 Brussels shops will pamper their customers with surprises, discounts and special offers," the City of Brussels said in a statement. A wide range of businesses will be taking part, from concept stores and specialist shops to stylists and restaurants.
"It's all about passionate people putting their know-how at the service of their customers, and local, more ethical and sustainable addresses that favour quality over quantity." The initiative joins other European initiatives such as 'Green Friday' and 'Giving Tuesday'.
All promotions and participating businesses can be found here.
