What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is a commercial operation that lasts one week. It usually marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season. 

Unfortunately, it is a day that encourages overconsumption and goes against the behavioral changes that are needed in order to limit the impacts of the climate crisis.

Our solutions to resist it

If you are open to buying second hand.

1. Opt for thrift stores

There are many thrift stores in Montreal for all tastes! A thrift store is a business that sells second-hand clothes. The advantage? Just like in a regular store, you can browse, try on, touch and see the clothes from every angle. The clothes are generally in very good condition and much cheaper than if they were new. 

Our favorites? 

• Renaissance!  Did you know that there are several in Montreal? You will find clothes but also… dishes, small appliances, furniture, decorations, toys, books, etc. The prices are very affordable and by shopping there you also support a non-profit organization with a social vocation. Pssst… you can also bring the items that you do not use at home anymore and make your donations!
• Empire Exchange
• Ex voto
• And so many others!

2. Buy second hand directly from a private seller

Kijiji: so many great finds here! You probably know this site, which allows individuals to sell their items themselves. 

Market Place, you can find everything! It’s like the Kijiji of Facebook.

Many Facebook groups also make donations. One of them is Veux-tu ça toi? c’est à donner 😊 Montréal.

If you don’t want to buy second-hand

First of all, know that many people sell things that are completely or almost new on second-hand sites or at thrift stores. If you fear ending up with damaged items, you can go back to the previous section, I promise.

You really want to buy new at all costs? We understand and we have solutions for you!

1. Buy local, in store

We are lucky to have Quebec and Montreal designers; Let’s cherish them! You can guess, it’s more ecological to support local artisans.

If you are looking for a gift, don’t forget that intangible gifts such as tickets to a show or concert are a great option! Self-made gifts such as; a simple letter full of love or a nice cake are more examples of simple yet unforgettable gestures.

2. Go for destocking

A clearance store is a place of “opportunity” shopping. The products come from industrial stores that want to liquidate their excess stock. Many stores do this and the products are generally much cheaper while still being new. Good plan, no?

3. Simply buy nothing

A nice challenge, isn’t it? Ask yourself the right questions… Is it a desire or a need? What will this new object allow you to live? Is your desire greater than the pollution it will generate?

So, are you convinced?

If so, share this article with your friends who are not!