Costa Rican retailers prepare for Black Friday

November 5th, 2012 (InsideCostaRica.com) “Black Friday” has officially become a new tradition in Costa Rica. Retailers in the country are now trying to do their best to compete with the prices from retailers outside the country and on the Internet.

Retailers agree that due to the success they’ve had in recent years, it is time to better prepare and offer even more competitive pricing discounts this year.  Retailers say that consumers have come to expect better deals every year.

Last year, over 186,000 people visited Multiplaza in Escazu and Curridabat for Black Friday.

Elisa Rojas, marketing manager for Grupo Roble, owner of the Multiplaza shopping centers, stated that many of the regional shops had their highest daily sales in the entire region.

Black Friday in the United States is the day after Thanksgiving Day, which is also recognized as the beginning of the holiday season. The date this year is November 23^rd.

The Universal, a large department store, is planning on offering discounts in all departments. Meanwhile, Cemaco (the retailer offers household items, as well as electrical appliances, a large selection of toys and other goods) will be offering extended hours and attractive promotions.

As retailers prepare for the big day, they are trying to spread that message that it is worthwhile to shop in their stores, even when compared to the steep discounts offered by U.S. and Internet retailers, once travel or import costs are considered.

Some travel agencies are offering Back Friday trips to the United States, which cost between $750 and $1,000 per person, including accommodations and airfare.

For those who decide to shop in one of the Mutiplaza malls, the company will be offering an app for Blackberry, Android, and iPhone cellphones, with a complete directory of stores, maps, services, promotions and events.