According to The Sun, Best Buy has announced that all its stores will be closed for 24 hours on Thanksgiving Day 2024, prompting shoppers to adjust their holiday plans. The decision aims to provide employees with a much-needed break and reflects a growing trend among major retailers.
A Shift in Retail Trends
This closure marks a return to a practice that has gained traction in recent years, as many retailers, including Walmart and Target, previously launched Black Friday deals on Thanksgiving itself, igniting a shopping frenzy before the holiday had officially ended. However, since 2020, there has been a notable shift, with most retailers now choosing to close on Thanksgiving Day.
Prioritizing Employee Well-Being
Best Buy’s decision is part of a broader industry movement to prioritize employee well-being and acknowledge the significance of family time during the holiday season. While shoppers looking for early Black Friday deals will need to adjust their plans, Best Buy is expected to roll out its biggest deals online, offering options for free delivery and contactless curbside pickup. This allows customers to enjoy the convenience of shopping from home while still accessing the deals they love.
Embracing Online Shopping
Although in-store shopping will be unavailable, Best Buy’s extensive online offerings aim to keep the holiday spirit alive for deal hunters. Customers are encouraged to take advantage of these online options to ensure they don’t miss out on the technology and electronics savings that Best Buy is renowned for.
Other Retailers Following Suit
Best Buy is not alone in its decision, as other retailers, including Walmart and Target, have also announced they will close their doors on Thanksgiving Day 2024. Shoppers can still anticipate a wealth of Black Friday deals that will become available shortly after the holiday, both in-store and online.
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Controversy Over Return Policy
Recently, Best Buy faced backlash from customers over its new 15-day return policy, which many shoppers deem too short. This change reduced the previous 30-day timeframe for returns, leading to frustration among customers. One disgruntled shopper expressed their dissatisfaction on X, stating, “Best Buy return policy is 15 days?! This is ridiculous. They won’t even let me exchange it for a different color. Not shopping here anymore…”
Alternative Return Options
While Best Buy’s return policy only allows for a 15-day window for a full refund, the retailer does offer additional options, albeit at a price. Following the policy change, Best Buy promoted its three-tier membership program as an attractive alternative.
- The My Best Buy basic plan is free, allowing for 15 days for a refund and store credit beyond that timeframe.
- The My Best Buy Plus and My Best Buy Total memberships provide a 60-day return window on most products, along with other benefits.
