Video: What do Gen Z students REALLY think about BFCM?

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Video: What do students REALLY have to say about BFCM?

Key Moments on Campus Student Marketing Masterclass

Let’s be honest – financial independence is tough for students. Between paying rent, weekly grocery runs and the occasional society night out, It’s a lot! Luckily, Black Friday comes along just in time to see them through their first term. With #BFCM fast approaching, we asked our native grads how they navigated shopping szn.

1. They treat themselves to items they missed off their Freshers shopping list

Whether it’s splurging on last-minute health kits or just some room decor, BFCM allows 14.9% students the chance to satisfy their uni needs and tick off those missing essentials.

India recalls how important it was to stock up on a mini health kit, prioritising wellness during those early days of living away from home.

For Mar, Black Friday and the discounts it brings was a great opportunity to purchase any missed items.

2. They see it as the perfect opportunity to snap up luxury items

Students shop on a budget, but BFCM gives them the chance to indulge in a few ‘little luxuries’ they usually can’t justify.

According to native’s own research, fashion and beauty is the number one vertical that students will be shopping in this Black Friday. Close behind it is Tech, with Health and Fitness taking third place.

All of these verticals have their higher price points – and many students will wait until Black Friday to get their hands on higher value items.

3. They favour brands which offer them student-friendly exclusives

Brands that cater to students’ financial needs are an instant hit!

According to our native research, 41.1% of students are influenced by high discount codes, while 5.4% are motivated by free shipping offers.

Here, India talks about the value of BFCM offers personalised specifically to students, as well as the extra perks that convince her to click buy – including free delivery.

4. They seek out products they can’t find elsewhere

From loading up their carts with exclusive UK brands to packing their suitcases with unique local uni-town finds, BFCM was the perfect opportunity for both international and local students to buy items that weren’t available back home.

Here, Mar reflects on the brands she didn’t know ahead of starting university in the UK – from the joys of collecting points via a Tesco ClubCard to collectively mourning the closure of Wilko with the rest of the nation.

5. They shop with purpose, prioritising brand quality and values

When it comes to shopping, native found that 48.46% of students are willing to invest in products that stand for something more. Whether it’s sustainability or inclusivity, these brands earned their loyalty both BFCM and beyond.

Black Friday is often pitted as a “Get Sales Quick” opportunity – but play your cards right, and you could end up securing lifelong loyalty with Gen Z students.

Here, India and Mar explain how.

Ready to tap into the buying power of Gen Z? Let’s make your brand top of their wishlist this #BFCM. Speak with a student media expert and book your package today.