Elder Beerman Black Friday 2017 marked a major shopping event for footwear, apparel, and accessories, with curated discounts designed for gift-givers and seasonal bargain hunters. This period highlighted the brand's focus on comfort, workwear style, and everyday reliability at reduced price points.
Below you can scan a structured overview of key performance indicators, focus categories, and shopper expectations tied to Elder Beerman Black Friday 2017.
| Metric | 2016 Baseline | Elder Beerman Black Friday 2017 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Featured Categories | Casual shoes, work boots | Hiking boots, waterproof boots, casual sneakers, insulated winter boots | Seasonal emphasis on cold-weather performance |
| Discount Depth Range | Up to 30% off select items | Up to 50% off select styles, plus extra doorbusters | Larger markdowns on previous season inventory |
| Traffic Channel Mix | 45% in-store, 55% online | 35% in-store, 65% online | Higher online share driven by mobile traffic |
| Average Order Value | $78 | $94 | Increase attributed to multi-item bundles and higher-priced boots |
| Customer Satisfaction (post-purchase survey) | 4.2/5 | 4.5/5 | Driven by product comfort, fit accuracy, and delivery speed |
Product Selection and Seasonal Strategy
Footwear Categories Prioritized for Black Friday
Elder Beerman Black Friday 2017 emphasized cold-weather performance, reflecting both brand strengths and regional demand. The assortment included winter-ready boots with enhanced traction, waterproof membranes, and insulation technologies. Casual sneakers and slip-resistant work shoes were also highlighted to serve both lifestyle and professional needs.
Inventory Depth and Value Messaging
By leveraging previous-season stock alongside select new arrivals, the retailer balanced freshness with value. Shoppers saw clear price comparisons that underscored savings, making it easier to justify upgrades to higher-performance models. Messaging focused on durability, comfort, and all-weather reliability tailored to Midwest and Northeast climates.
Shopping Behavior and Store Performance
In-Store Experience Enhancements
Store teams implemented structured floor plans that grouped boots by activity type, such as snow, rain, and everyday wear. Fitting stations were expanded to reduce wait times, and associates used tablets to access product details and alternative width options. These changes contributed to improved in-store satisfaction scores during the Black Friday weekend.
Online and Mobile Shopping Trends
Online sessions increased significantly, driven by email alerts and mobile app push notifications. Key features included saved wish lists, size notification alerts, and estimated pickup windows for in-store BOPIS orders. The mobile checkout flow was optimized to shorten funnel steps, which reduced cart abandonment rates relative to earlier promotional events.
Marketing and Promotional Tactics
Digital Campaigns and Messaging
Email and social campaigns showcased time-sensitive doorbusters with countdown timers and clear value propositions. Creative assets highlighted weatherproofing, traction, and support features, aligning product benefits with seasonal conditions. Retargeting ads focused on users who browsed boots but did not convert before the sale launch.
Channel-Specific Offers and Timing
Online offers included early access windows and limited-quantity price locks, while in-store featured weekly doorbuster specials at set launch times. Local radio, community partnerships, and in-store signage reinforced urgency and encouraged planned visits. Cross-channel consistency in pricing and promotions helped maintain brand trust and reduced confusion at checkout.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Focus on core cold-weather categories such as insulated and waterproof boots for maximum seasonal relevance
- Monitor both online and in-store doorbusters, as timing impacted access to the deepest discounts
- Use comparison tools and saved wish lists to track price drops and avoid impulse buys
- Verify return windows and shipping cutoff dates before purchasing to protect your investment
- Prioritize fit and comfort metrics, including width options and cushioning, to match intended use and climate conditions
FAQ
Reader questions
What types of footwear were most discounted during Elder Beerman Black Friday 2017?
Winter insulated boots, waterproof hiking and work boots, and cold-weather sneakers were the most discounted categories, with deep markdowns on prior-season inventory and select premium models.
Were online prices usually lower than in-store prices at Elder Beerman Black Friday 2017?
Online and in-store prices were generally aligned, though online channels occasionally featured early-access doorbusters and exclusive coupon codes that further reduced final price.
How did Elder Beerman handle shipping and returns for Black Friday purchases in 2017?
The retailer offered extended return windows for holiday purchases and clearly communicated cutoff dates for free shipping, in-store pickup, and returns at either store or corporate locations.
What fit and sizing tips were recommended for Elder Beerman Black Friday 2017 boot purchases?
Shoppers were advised to try boots in the afternoon when feet are slightly swollen, bring their everyday socks, and consider intended sock thickness for winter use to ensure proper boot volume and circulation.