Clear Lake Coffee Roasters: Explorer & History Series - The Evolution of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday: From Roots to Retail Frenzy - Nov 23, 2023

Black Friday and Cyber Monday have become synonymous with the holiday shopping season. These two days, known for their incredible deals and discounts, have become a tradition for many shoppers. But have you ever wondered how Black Friday and Cyber Monday came to be? In this blog post, we will explore the history of these shopping holidays and how they have evolved over time.

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving and is often considered the beginning of the Christmas shopping season. The term "Black Friday" originated in the 1960s and was used to describe the heavy and disruptive pedestrian and vehicle traffic that would occur on the day after Thanksgiving. It wasn't until the 1980s that the term began to be associated with the idea of retailers offering significant discounts and sales on this day.

How did Black Friday become a shopping holiday?

In the early 2000s, Black Friday started to gain more attention and became a highly anticipated shopping event. Retailers began opening their doors earlier and earlier, with some even opening at midnight. This led to long lines and chaotic scenes as shoppers rushed to get the best deals. The media coverage of these events further fueled the popularity of Black Friday as a shopping holiday.

What is Cyber Monday?

Cyber Monday is the Monday following Thanksgiving and was created as a way to encourage online shopping. The term "Cyber Monday" was coined by Ellen Davis and Scott Silverman in a press release in 2005. They noticed that online retailers experienced a significant increase in sales on the Monday after Thanksgiving, as people returned to work and had access to high-speed internet.

How did Cyber Monday become a shopping holiday?

As online shopping continued to grow in popularity, retailers saw an opportunity to extend the Black Friday shopping frenzy to the online space. They began offering exclusive online deals and discounts on Cyber Monday, enticing shoppers to make purchases from the comfort of their own homes. This strategy proved to be successful, and Cyber Monday quickly became one of the biggest online shopping days of the year.

How have Black Friday and Cyber Monday evolved?

Over the years, both Black Friday and Cyber Monday have continued to evolve. Black Friday has become known for its doorbuster deals and early morning store openings, while Cyber Monday has expanded beyond just one day, with many retailers offering deals throughout the entire week. Additionally, the rise of mobile shopping has led to the emergence of "Cyber Week," where consumers can find deals and discounts on their smartphones and tablets.

In conclusion, Black Friday and Cyber Monday have a rich history that dates back several decades. What started as a day of heavy traffic and chaos has transformed into a highly anticipated shopping holiday. Whether you prefer to brave the crowds on Black Friday or shop from the comfort of your own home on Cyber Monday, these two days offer incredible opportunities to find great deals and kick off the holiday shopping season.

Celebrate Small Business Saturday: Supporting Local Gems

Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities, embodying the passion and dedication of entrepreneurs who pour their hearts into their work. As we approach Small Business Saturday, an annual event celebrated on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving, it's the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the local gems that make our neighborhoods unique. This year, let's come together to support and celebrate these small businesses that contribute so much to the character and vitality of our communities.

1. The Heartbeat of the Community: Small businesses are the backbone of our local economies. They create jobs, foster innovation, and infuse our neighborhoods with character. Whether it's the corner bookstore, the family-owned bakery, or the artisanal craft shop, each small business adds a distinct flavor to our community.

2. Personalized Service and Unique Experiences: One of the standout features of small businesses is the personalized service they provide. Unlike large corporations, small businesses often offer a more intimate and tailored experience. Owners and employees are likely to know their customers by name, remember their preferences, and go the extra mile to ensure satisfaction.

3. Quality Over Quantity: Small businesses often prioritize quality over quantity. Whether it's handmade products, locally sourced ingredients, or carefully curated selections, small businesses take pride in offering something unique and of high quality. This commitment to excellence sets them apart from mass-produced alternatives.

4. Community Connection: Small businesses play a vital role in fostering a sense of community. They sponsor local events, support neighborhood initiatives, and create spaces where residents can come together. When you support a small business, you're not just making a purchase; you're investing in the fabric of your community.

5. Surviving and Thriving: The last couple of years have posed significant challenges for small businesses. Many have had to adapt, pivot, and find innovative ways to survive. As we celebrate Small Business Saturday, let's not only show our support through purchases but also by spreading the word about these resilient businesses and the stories behind them.

6. Shop Local, Shop Small: This Small Business Saturday, consider making a conscious effort to shop local. Whether you're looking for holiday gifts, everyday essentials, or a treat for yourself, explore the offerings of nearby small businesses. You might discover hidden gems and one-of-a-kind finds that you wouldn't encounter in larger, more mainstream establishments.

Small Business Saturday is not just a day to shop; it's an opportunity to express gratitude and support for the small businesses that make our communities thrive. By choosing to shop local, you contribute to the resilience and success of these enterprises. So, this Saturday, join the movement, explore the charm of your local businesses, and celebrate the diversity and uniqueness they bring to our lives. Together, let's make Small Business Saturday a day to remember and cherish the local gems that make our communities special.

Embrace the Spirit of Giving Tuesday: A Day to Make a Difference

As the holiday season unfolds, amidst the hustle and bustle of shopping and festivities, there's a day that stands out for its emphasis on selflessness and generosity—Giving Tuesday. Falling on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday serves as a powerful reminder to shift our focus from consumerism to compassion, encouraging people around the world to come together and make a positive impact. In this blog post, let's explore the essence of Giving Tuesday and how each of us can contribute to creating a brighter, more compassionate world.

1. A Global Movement for Good: Giving Tuesday is more than just a day; it's a global movement that began as a response to the consumer-driven days of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Instead of chasing deals and discounts, Giving Tuesday invites individuals, organizations, and communities to channel their energy and resources towards charitable initiatives.

2. The Power of Small Acts: One of the beautiful aspects of Giving Tuesday is the recognition that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a significant difference. Whether it's donating to a local charity, volunteering time, or simply spreading kindness, the collective impact of individual actions can be transformative.

3. Choose Your Cause: Giving Tuesday is a chance to support the causes that resonate with you personally. Whether it's addressing poverty, promoting education, supporting healthcare initiatives, or championing environmental conservation, there are countless organizations and projects in need of assistance. Take this opportunity to align your giving with your values.

4. Engage with Local Organizations: While global charities do incredible work, don't overlook the impact you can have on your local community. Giving back to local nonprofits, shelters, and community organizations can have a direct and immediate effect, creating a ripple of positive change right where you live.

5. Spread the Word: Giving Tuesday is not just about financial contributions; it's also about raising awareness and inspiring others to join the movement. Use your voice, both online and offline, to share information about causes that matter to you. Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to participate and amplify the impact of Giving Tuesday.

6. Volunteer Your Time: If financial contributions aren't feasible, consider donating your time and skills. Many organizations are in need of volunteers to support their initiatives. Whether it's mentoring, organizing events, or lending a hand in community projects, your time can be an invaluable gift.

7. Corporate and Institutional Giving: Many businesses and institutions actively participate in Giving Tuesday by matching employee donations, organizing community service projects, or making corporate contributions. If you work for a company, inquire about any initiatives they might have in place and how you can get involved.

 Giving Tuesday is a beautiful reminder that the holiday season is not just about receiving; it's about giving back and making a positive impact in the lives of others. As we approach this special day, let's embrace the spirit of generosity, kindness, and community. Whether through financial contributions, volunteer efforts, or spreading awareness, each of us has the power to be a force for good. Together, let's make Giving Tuesday a day filled with compassion, empathy, and positive change.

 Six reasons for making Clear Lake Coffee Roasters - CLCR - your go-to coffee roaster:


☕️ We are a local family-run business located in the heart of Clear Lake, Iowa.

☕️ We go to great lengths to find only the finest and ethically sourced coffee around, from the top 2% of coffee beans in the world.

☕️ We only source 100% certified Arabica coffee beans, carefully hand-selecting each coffee based on specific quality and taste attributes.

☕️ Our roasting process has been refined over the years and each roast profile is individually designed to complement the nuances of the coffee we source, from Cup of Excellence (COE) award-winning producers.

☕️ By roasting in smaller batches, we can ensure our coffee is ALWAYS fresh, in fact, we roast your coffee only after you place an order - the same day your order ships out.

☕️ At CLCR, we are dedicated to a single mission: the unyielding pursuit of coffee perfection in every cup.

We would give you more reasons, but rather than reading it's better if you visit our website, purchase a bag or two, and experience a unique caffeinated or half-caff journey for yourself 😊!
Explore goodness. Click. Buy. Smile.

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