For some people, sales are the most tedious part of the holidays, but for others, saving money is a way of life. So it should come as no surprise that, in 2020, thousands of Puerto Ricans formed virtual communities where they shared the best online deals, in response to the restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, these communities are more active than ever, looking to ease the burden of inflation, which reached its highest average point in 15 years in 2022, according to Sin Comillas, and to be smarter consumers.
That is what Paula Madera, founder of Great Deals PR, one of these communities, which she started in 2020, described. It all began when Madera shared stories featuring deals from stores like Marshalls, Macy's and TJ Maxx. Over time, she added online offers and started conversations about product quality and best uses.
The platform of deals, reviews and tips has since accumulated nearly 74,000 followers on Instagram, whom Madera affectionately calls the Deal Lovers.
"Puerto Ricans are always looking to stretch their dollar. I mostly see it because maybe they want to buy something at a good price, with good quality, so they can save that money and put it toward other things," she told Platea. Madera is also a speech pathologist by profession.
According to the San Juan native, many followers thank her for helping them save on a necessity, because it frees up money to pay for other items, bills or even travel. Those who want something specific but are working with a tight budget have also benefited from her curated deals.
The best deals for Black Friday 2023
As her community keeps growing, Pau, as her followers call her, continues to share the biggest deals of the season. Below are some of the tips she shared with Platea to help you make the most of Black Friday as a smart shopper.
1. You have multiple days, but don't forget to check online
Some deals are available online only, and they are no longer limited to Friday. They run through the entire weekend and into Monday, Nov. 27. This option has reduced the number of in-person lines, and Madera considers both approaches viable this year.
2. What you should buy
High-priced tech devices and kitchen appliances are the most recommended purchases. For this year, she suggested keeping an eye on robot vacuums, regular vacuums, air fryers and smart refrigerators. In particular, online retailers like Amazon and Macy's will offer special appliances, such as air fryers with slow cooker and conventional oven functions. For those looking to cut back on their daily Starbucks spending, she suggested Breville coffee makers.
3. What is not worth it
According to Madera, this season is not the best time to find significant savings on clothing, shoes or perfume. These products are less time-sensitive, and similar discounts can be found during other sales around the holidays.
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
