Your 2024 blueprint for Black Friday and Cyber Monday success

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As we head into another Black Friday and Cyber Monday season, the landscape of retail looks very different from what it did just a few years ago. 

This year, high consumer expectations, economic uncertainty, and an emphasis on both sustainability and speed have brought new pressures on retailers to prepare with extra precision. For retails in particular, getting these two crucial days right can mean the difference between a profitable Q4 and missing out on a huge revenue opportunity. 

Let’s dive into what’s new this year, what retailers need to be on top of, and how a strong ERP system can help make it all manageable.

What to expect this year

In 2024, Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren’t just about slashing prices and driving sales. Shoppers are more digitally savvy, comparison-focused, and expect a seamless experience across channels—whether they’re shopping in-store or online. Rising concerns around environmental impact mean that sustainability in packaging and delivery can also be make-or-break factors in a consumer’s decision to buy. Plus, with inflationary pressures still affecting many households, consumers are looking for better value, not just lower prices.

This year, shoppers will likely spread their spending across multiple retailers, looking for personalised deals, fast service, and brands that align with their values. For retailers, that means focusing on these priorities like never before:

🌱 Sustainability: Sustainable packaging and ethical sourcing are hot topics.

⚡ Efficiency: Consumers expect same-day or next-day delivery options.

🎯 Personalisation: Data-driven, personalised offers make a big impact.

🤝 Customer Experience: Clear communication and reliable delivery are essential.

What retailers need to be prepared for

These days are intense in terms of order volume, warehouse activity, and customer service demands. To be truly prepared, retailers need a strategy that covers three key areas: stock, orders, and customer satisfaction.

1. Stock readiness

Stock control is at the heart of a successful Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The fine line between having too much and not enough stock can be difficult to navigate, but getting your stock levels right is critical to avoid overstocking (and the markdowns that follow) or understocking (and the risk of losing sales). Real-time inventory visibility can help make sure you have just the right amount of product on hand. It’s worth looking at past sales data to guide these decisions, especially for products that performed well last year.

2. Speedy fulfillment

Black Friday and Cyber Monday place a huge strain on fulfillment processes. From picking and packing to shipping, every step needs to run smoothly to meet customer expectations. Ensure that your team is well-prepared, and consider using handheld scanners or other automation tools that can reduce errors and save time. Efficient picking, combined with real-time tracking and route optimisation, will keep customers happy with fast delivery times.

3. Clear communication

Keeping customers informed is crucial, especially if there are unexpected delays or stock issues. Automated updates via email or SMS help maintain trust, allowing customers to feel reassured during the busy season. This is also the time to double down on your customer service support so that questions and concerns are quickly addressed, enhancing the overall experience.

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How an ERP system can help

While preparing for these key days may seem overwhelming, having a powerful ERP system can streamline the entire process. Here’s how an ERP can bring it all together without complicating things:

Data-driven forecasting

Analysing last year’s data to predict demand is key. An ERP system can compile historical sales data and pinpoint trends, helping you forecast demand with more accuracy. With this insight, you can make smarter purchasing decisions, focus on popular products, and avoid overstocking items that haven’t sold well in the past.

Stock control in real time

During a high-stakes sales event, an ERP’s real-time stock visibility can be a lifesaver. By knowing exactly what’s available, you can manage orders with confidence and avoid disappointing customers with out-of-stock items. Automated restocking alerts can also help you stay proactive rather than reactive, making sure you’re always prepared.

Streamlined order fulfillment

Speed is critical during peak seasons, and an ERP can help ensure that your warehouse is operating as efficiently as possible. By organising orders and helping staff follow optimised picking paths, you can get products out the door faster. With an ERP, processes like picking, packing, and shipping become smoother and faster, cutting down on errors and helping you avoid bottlenecks. 

Enhanced customer service

Communication is critical in maintaining customer trust, especially if there are any issues with their order. With an ERP, you can set up automated notifications that keep customers in the loop, from order confirmation to delivery updates. This ensures transparency and keeps your customer service team from becoming overwhelmed with questions, allowing them to focus on resolving any more complex issues. 

Personalised marketing

With a detailed view of your customers’ buying habits, an ERP can help you set up personalised offers that are more likely to convert. By identifying trends and customer preferences, you can tailor promotions that resonate with your audience, enhancing engagement and boosting sales.

Ready to make this your best Black Friday and Cyber Monday yet?

Mastering Black Friday and Cyber Monday requires planning, the right tools, and a responsive strategy. With the support of a powerful ERP, you can tackle every aspect of the customer journey—from stocking shelves to delivering orders, all while keeping customers informed and engaged.

For more insights on preparing for your peak seasons, visit our resource hub, How to master your seasonal sales. With practical tips on everything from optimising stock levels to data-driven forecasting, you’ll find everything you need to meet customer demands and boost your bottom line all year round.