On October 28, 2024, Walmart updated its plans for the upcoming Black Friday shopping event, outlining a series of “Black Friday Deals” events scheduled to occur throughout November. These events will capitalize on the later-than-usual timing of the shopping holiday in 2024.
The retail giant announced the return of its staggered seasonal sales, which include early access for Walmart+ members, surprise deal drops, and an expanded beta trial of its new generative AI shopping assistant. Walmart is incentivizing new memberships to its Walmart+ service by offering annual subscriptions at a reduced rate of $49, a 50% discount valid through December 2.
Walmart is the second major retailer to reveal its Black Friday 2024 schedule, closely following Best Buy’s announcement of extended Black Friday savings. The first two Walmart Black Friday Deals events are set for November 11 and November 25, beginning online at 12 p.m. ET for Walmart+ members and opening to the general public at 5 p.m. ET. These events will reach physical stores four days later, on November 15 and November 29, at 6 a.m. local time, with the latter coinciding with the actual Black Friday.
Additionally, Walmart plans to release deals online and through its app progressively during the events, rather than only at the start. The retail chain will conclude its promotion period with a Cyber Monday event, commencing on December 1 at 5 p.m. ET for Walmart+ members and expanding to all customers at 8 p.m. ET. This online-exclusive sale will continue through Cyber Monday on December 2.
A significant component of Walmart’s strategic offerings includes expanding the beta test of its AI-powered shopping assistant to assist customers in product searches and purchasing decisions. This feature is designed to facilitate natural, conversational inquiries.
Walmart clarified that it will not match prices if an item purchased during a Black Friday Deals event sees a subsequent price reduction. However, the company offers an extended return policy, allowing most items bought through December 31 to be returned until January 31, 2025.
Walmart stores will operate from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Black Friday, marking the in-store launch of its second Black Friday Deals event. As previously confirmed by the company, all Walmart locations will remain closed on Thanksgiving to allow staff to spend the day with their families.
The Black Friday Deals events promise significant discounts on sought-after gifts from top brands such as Apple, Samsung, Xbox, Beats, Barbie, Lego, Dyson, Reebok, and Levi’s, among others. Walmart has released a preview of the top deals available during the initial event in its announcement.