Massive turnout for Black Friday deals at Courts, Standard

IN the early hours of November 29, eager shoppers formed queues outside Courts Megastore, Barataria, and Standard Distributors, Grand Bazaar, Valsayn, arriving as early as 2 am to take advantage of Black Friday sales. Despite the rain, large crowds gathered outside.

Abigail from Sangre Grande stood outside Standard's Grand Bazaar location, securing a 55-inch Samsung television for just one dollar. She arrived at 2 am and left shortly after 7am.

"I can't wait for next year; I'll be here from the night before," she said, holding a television and three air fryers.

Standard's marketing manager, Aabida Allaham, said preparations for the sale began at the start of the month. Arriving at work at 2.30 am she found shoppers already in line.

"It was nearly impossible to barricade the door; it's actually damaged," she said. To manage the influx, additional staff were hired for peak times.

Televisions, particularly 50-inch models priced at $2,699 and 55-inch models at $2,999, were the main attractions, she said.

At Courts' Megastore, Robelto from Chaguanas lined up for a vacuum cleaner. Despite joining the line an hour before opening, she said she’s excited about her first Black Friday experience and plans to return next year.

Courts’ employee Chelsea said owing to the massive turnout, a limit of three televisions per person was imposed. She said the previous week's sale had a bigger turnout since the real sale prices were advertised then. However, lines still awaited the store's opening. "The experience as an employee during these times has been great, with smooth sailing and no disputes," she said.

“Air fryers, small kitchen appliances and televisions were the best seller,” said Chelsea.

Jonathan Walter from Las Cuevas said he braved the pouring rain to reach Courts.

"This is a half-off sale; I came for televisions and speakers," he said, accompanied by a friend excited for the adventure.

RadioShack, located within Courts, offered discounted items like small speakers and headphones, with speakers as low as $100. People gathered to secure home sound systems to add to their television purchases.

Local government councillor J-Lynn Roopnarine bought a 55-inch television valued at $3,010 with regular prices usually $6,000 and upwards. She said regardless of the rain, she is extremely happy she came out. "Courts is the best place for all the deals," said Roopnarine as she acknowledged Black Friday as the best time for bargains.

Newsday spoke with a customer who visited both establishments and chose to remain anonymous.

He sought the place with the best customer experience.

"I am looking to purchase items at the least chaotic place, something relaxed," he said. He said he’s looking for the best deals with the easiest purchasing process. He told Newsday he would go wherever the price and experience were right.

The crowds across various stores this Black Friday comprised a mix of different age groups, with many young adults observing costs and spending decisions. Many said it was their first time participating and looked forward to making informed decisions about their spending habits.