RETAILERS across Donegal are gearing up for a bustling day tomorrow as ‘Black Friday’ is set to draw thousands of shoppers seeking pre-Christmas bargains.
Tinney’s Toys, Ireland’s largest online farm toy superstore, situated on the Leck Road in Letterkenny, assures ample parking space amidst ongoing traffic concerns in the town. Owner Liam Tinney shared his perspective on Black Friday with Donegal News, expressing a balanced approach.
“We offer Black Friday deals throughout November, but out of fairness to customers in our ‘Tinney’s Toys Christmas Clubs,’ we avoid major discounts on just one day. Some shops stopped doing Black Friday due to reputation issues, inflating prices beforehand, then slashing them on the day,” stated Mr. Tinney.
The retailer, shipping toys across Europe, highlighted the shift to online business since the pandemic.
“Pre-Covid, most of our business was in-store, but now it’s predominantly online.”
Donegal Gardaí caution about the rise in online scams during the Black Friday period, urging vigilance. Speaking to Donegal News, Garda Sgt. Paul Wallace advised, “If it seems too good to be true, it usually is!”
The Crime Prevention Officer continued, “Never give away your personal data; bank details, PIN numbers, passwords or PPS numbers. At the end of the day your local high street retailers should always be considered and will value your custom.”
Frances Spears, owner of Mourne Antiques & Jewellery on Upper Main Street in Letterkenny, expressed reservations about Black Friday, emphasising the importance of local shopping.
“I dislike the whole idea because it’s centered around online shopping. We need people to shop locally for a bit of chat and a laugh. Local shops may vanish if this trend continues. Fortunately, in our business, people still enjoy coming in to browse,
“People often regret online purchases because what arrives is not what they were expecting.” warned Ms. Spears.
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