Black Friday Shopping Tips

Black Friday is an important shopping event that offers great deals on a variety of products. To make the most of your Black Friday shopping, it’s important to start early and take advantage of the discounts that are available before the actual day. Online shopping has become increasingly popular for Black Friday, as it provides more options and convenience. Using websites and apps can help you track prices and compare deals. It’s also important to create a budget and stick to it to avoid overspending. Checking the return and exchange policies of stores beforehand can help you make informed purchasing decisions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Start your Black Friday shopping early to avoid crowds and ensure availability of the items you want.
  • Consider online shopping for a wider range of options and the ability to easily compare prices.
  • Use websites and apps to track prices, read reviews, and find the best deals.
  • Take advantage of store loyalty programs and follow your favorite retailers on social media for exclusive discounts.
  • Create a budget to avoid overspending and understand store policies before making a purchase.

Start Early and Take Advantage of Pre-Black Friday Sales

One of the best strategies for successful Black Friday shopping is to start early and take advantage of pre-Black Friday sales. Many retailers offer discounts and promotions in the days leading up to the big shopping event, allowing you to score great deals before the crowds descend on the stores. By starting your shopping early, you can avoid the long lines and crowded stores that are characteristic of Black Friday. Plus, you’ll have a better chance of finding the items you want in stock.

When starting early, be sure to check if the stores you plan to visit have price match policies. These policies allow you to get a refund if the price of an item drops after you’ve made your purchase but before Black Friday. This way, you can take advantage of early discounts without worrying that a better deal will come along later. Saving your receipts and staying proactive about price adjustments can help you maximize your savings.

In addition to pre-Black Friday sales, it’s also worth checking if your favorite retailers offer early access to their promotions through loyalty programs. Many stores have loyalty programs that grant members exclusive discounts and perks, such as early access to sales. By signing up for these programs, you can get a head start on your Black Friday shopping and possibly snag some additional savings.

Pre-Black Friday Sales

Consider Online Shopping for More Options

When it comes to Black Friday shopping, online shopping offers a myriad of advantages that can enhance your overall experience. With just a few clicks, you can access a vast array of products and compare prices across different stores to find the best deals. Online retailers often offer the same promotions as their brick-and-mortar counterparts, and some even have exclusive online deals that you won’t find in physical stores. Shopping online also provides the convenience of avoiding crowded stores and long lines, allowing you to shop at your own pace from the comfort of your own home.

One of the key benefits of online shopping is the ability to find more options. While physical stores have limited shelf space, online retailers can offer a much wider selection of products. This means that you’re more likely to find the exact item you’re looking for, whether it’s a specific brand, color, or size. Additionally, online shopping allows you to easily compare prices and read reviews from other customers, giving you a better understanding of the quality and value of a product before making a purchase.

To make your online shopping experience even more convenient, many retailers have mobile apps that offer additional discounts and features. These apps often include price comparison tools, personalized recommendations, and notifications for exclusive deals. By downloading the app of your favorite retailers, you can stay updated on the latest promotions and easily access them whenever you want.

Table: Benefits of Online Shopping on Black Friday

Advantages Benefits
More options Access to a wider selection of products
Convenience Shop from the comfort of your own home
Price comparison Easily compare prices across different stores
Personalization Receive personalized recommendations and notifications for exclusive deals
Reviews and ratings Read reviews from other customers to make informed purchasing decisions

By considering online shopping for your Black Friday purchases, you can take advantage of a wider range of options, along with the convenience and savings it offers. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or treating yourself to something special, online shopping provides a seamless and enjoyable experience that can help you make the most of this shopping extravaganza.

Use Websites and Apps to Track Prices

One of the key strategies for making the most of your Black Friday shopping is to use websites and apps to track prices and compare deals. These online tools can help you stay informed about the latest discounts and ensure that you are getting the best possible price for the items on your wish-list.

There are several websites that provide price comparisons and up-to-date prices at various outlets. Consumer Reports, Google Shopping, and PriceGrabber are popular options for finding the best deals. These websites allow you to easily compare prices across different stores and identify the retailers offering the lowest prices. Additionally, many of them offer filters and search options to help you narrow down your search and find the specific products you are looking for.

Smartphone apps like BuyVia, Shopkick, and ShopSavvy also play a valuable role in tracking prices while you are in the store. These apps allow you to scan barcodes and compare prices with other retailers, giving you instant access to information that can help you make a purchasing decision. Some apps even provide personalized alerts and notifications when prices drop or when your favorite items go on sale.

Website/App Features Price Comparison Alerts/Notifications
Consumer Reports Product reviews, price comparisons Yes No
Google Shopping Product search, price comparisons Yes No
PriceGrabber Price comparisons, deal alerts Yes Yes
BuyVia Barcode scanner, price comparisons Yes Yes
Shopkick Rewards program, price comparisons Yes Yes
ShopSavvy Barcode scanner, price comparisons Yes Yes

Furthermore, there are websites that specialize in leaking Black Friday ads and providing early access to deals. Websites like BestBlackFriday.com and DealNews are great resources for finding leaked ads and getting a sneak peek at the discounts that will be available on Black Friday. By signing up for deal alerts and using browser extensions, you can stay ahead of the game and be prepared to snag the best deals as soon as they become available.

By leveraging these websites and apps, you can stay informed about the market prices, compare deals, and make informed purchasing decisions. This will help you track down the best possible prices and ensure that you are getting the most value for your money.

Utilize Store Loyalty Programs

One effective strategy to enhance your Black Friday shopping experience is to take advantage of store loyalty programs. These programs offer various benefits such as early access to coupons, sales, and exclusive promotions. By signing up for these programs, you can gain an edge over other shoppers and increase your chances of snagging the best deals.

Store loyalty programs also provide valuable rewards for your continued patronage. As a member, you may earn points for every purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts, freebies, or even cash back. These rewards can add up quickly, allowing you to save even more on your Black Friday purchases.

Furthermore, some loyalty programs offer additional perks, such as the ability to check product availability and reserve items online for in-store pickup. This can save you money on shipping fees and ensure that the items you want are ready for you when you arrive at the store. Be sure to check the features and benefits of each loyalty program to make the most of your Black Friday shopping experience.

Loyalty Program Benefits
Rewards R Us Early access to Black Friday deals, members-only discounts, and birthday rewards
My Best Buy Exclusive deals, free shipping, and member-only prices
Ulta Beauty Points for every purchase, birthday gifts, and access to special events

Don’t miss out on the benefits of store loyalty programs this Black Friday. Sign up for your favorite retailers’ programs and enjoy the perks of early access, rewards, and exclusive promotions!

Create a Budget and Stick to It

One of the most important tips for successful Black Friday shopping is to create a budget and stick to it. Black Friday sales are designed to entice you to buy more than you planned, so having a set budget can help you avoid overspending. Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your shopping spree and prioritize your purchases accordingly.

When creating your budget, take into account not only the cost of the items you want to buy but also any additional expenses such as taxes, shipping fees, or extended warranties. By considering these factors upfront, you can avoid any surprises when it comes time to make your purchases.

It’s also essential to track your spending as you shop. Keep a running tally of the total amount you’ve spent, so you can stay within your budget. If you find yourself reaching your limit, reassess your purchases and consider if there are any items you can live without or find alternative options for.

Table: Black Friday Budget Planner

Item Planned Budget Actual Spent Notes
Electronics $500 $450 Found a better deal than anticipated
Clothing $200 $250 Went over budget due to unexpected discounts
Home Appliances $300 $320 Decided to splurge on a higher-end model
Gifts $150 $150 Stayed within budget

Remember, the goal is to find great deals and save money, not to spend more than you can afford. By creating a budget and sticking to it, you can enjoy the thrill of Black Friday shopping while maintaining control of your finances.

Avoid Overspending

Familiarize Yourself with Store Policies

Before making any purchases on Black Friday, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the store’s policies. Understanding store policies can help you make informed decisions and avoid any surprises or additional costs. Here are some key store policies to consider:

Price Match Guarantee

Many retailers have a price-match policy that allows you to get the lowest price available, even if it’s from a competitor. This can be especially helpful on Black Friday when prices may vary across different stores. Research which retailers offer price matching and what their specific requirements are. Keep in mind that some stores may suspend their price-match guarantees and have specific policies for the Black Friday weekend.

Return and Exchange Policies

It’s important to check the return and exchange policies of the stores you plan to shop at. Look for stores with flexible return windows and no restocking fees. Some retailers may have more generous return policies during the holiday season, but it’s crucial to know the specifics. This will ensure that you can return or exchange any items if needed without any added fees or hassles.

Store policies

Retailer Price Match Policy Return Policy
Store A Yes 30 days, no restocking fees
Store B No 14 days, restocking fee may apply
Store C Yes 60 days, no restocking fees during holiday season

Knowing store policies can help you make informed decisions and avoid any surprises or additional costs on Black Friday.

By familiarizing yourself with store policies, you can shop with confidence and make the most of your Black Friday experience. Take note of stores that offer price matching and understand their requirements. Additionally, be aware of the return and exchange policies to ensure a hassle-free shopping experience. Being informed about store policies will allow you to make smart purchasing decisions and maximize your savings on Black Friday.

Be Social and Follow Favorite Retailers

One effective way to stay updated on the latest Black Friday deals and promotions is to follow your favorite retailers on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. By doing so, you can gain access to exclusive deals and promotions that are often shared exclusively with their followers. Retailers often reward customers who engage with them on social media by providing special alerts for Black Friday discounts and incentives.

Following your favorite retailers on social media not only keeps you informed about the latest deals but also allows you to be a part of a community where you can share shopping tips and information with fellow shoppers. By engaging with others, you may even discover additional deals and discounts that you may have otherwise missed.

Retailer Social Media Platform Exclusive Deals
Target Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Early access to Black Friday discounts
Amazon Facebook, Twitter Exclusive flash sales and limited-time offers
Best Buy Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Special promotions for social media followers

By being social and keeping up with your favorite retailers on social media, you can take advantage of exclusive deals and promotions that can add to your Black Friday savings.

Alt text: Social media icons representing Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Set a Wish-List and Research Ahead of Time

Before diving into the frenzy of Black Friday shopping, it’s essential to set a wish-list of the items you’re looking to buy. By knowing exactly what you want, you’ll be able to stay focused and avoid impulsive purchases. Take some time to research the products ahead of time, comparing features and reading reviews to make informed decisions. By having a clear understanding of what you’re looking for, you’ll be better equipped to spot the best deals and avoid any temptations that might lead to overspending.

Wish-list

When creating your wish-list, prioritize the items that are most important to you, and be prepared to make compromises if necessary. It’s also a good idea to have alternative options in mind in case your top choices are sold out or not within your budget. By having a well-planned wish-list, you’ll be able to navigate the Black Friday sales with ease and confidence, ensuring that you don’t miss out on the best deals.

Research for the Best Deals

In addition to creating a wish-list, conducting thorough research ahead of time is crucial for finding the best deals on Black Friday. Visit websites like Best Black Friday and Money Saving Expert to stay updated on the latest deals and promotions. These platforms provide comprehensive information on discounts offered by various retailers, allowing you to compare prices and make informed decisions. It’s also worth checking out leaked Black Friday ads on websites like BestBlackFriday.com and DealNews, as they can provide insight into upcoming deals and help you plan your shopping strategy.

By having a well-planned wish-list and conducting thorough research, you’ll be able to approach Black Friday with confidence, maximize your savings, and make the most of this annual shopping event.

Shop Online for Convenience and Extra Perks

When it comes to Black Friday shopping, online shopping offers unparalleled convenience and extra perks. Many retailers extend their deals to their online platforms, allowing you to take advantage of the same discounts and promotions without leaving the comfort of your home. The convenience of online shopping means you can avoid the crowds, long lines, and hectic atmosphere that often accompanies in-store shopping on Black Friday.

One of the biggest advantages of shopping online during Black Friday is the additional perks that come with it. Many retailers offer free delivery on online orders, saving you money on shipping costs. Some even provide the option for curbside pickup, allowing you to skip the lines and get your purchases quickly and conveniently. These perks can make your Black Friday shopping experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Shopping online also gives you the ability to easily compare prices across different stores. With just a few clicks, you can explore a wide range of retailers and find the best deals. Using online shopping apps and coupon aggregators can further enhance your savings by helping you discover exclusive deals and discounts. These tools provide a convenient way to browse through flyers, compare prices, and receive personalized alerts for Black Friday offers.

Overall, shopping online for Black Friday is a smart choice. It offers convenience, extra perks like free delivery, and the ability to compare prices easily. Take advantage of online shopping apps, browse through different retailers, and enjoy a stress-free and money-saving shopping experience.

Shop online for convenience and extra perks

Take Advantage of Price-Matching Policies

Price-matching policies can save you money and ensure that you get the best discounts on Black Friday. Many retailers offer price-matching guarantees, which means they will match the price of a product if you find it cheaper at a competitor’s store. This allows you to shop with confidence, knowing that you’re getting the best deal possible. Before making a purchase, be sure to check if the store has a price-match policy and gather proof of the lower price.

“Price-matching policies can be a game-changer on Black Friday. By taking advantage of these policies, you can save money and enjoy the same discounts as competitors. Make sure to do your research ahead of time and come prepared with evidence of lower prices. Retailers are often more than willing to match prices, so don’t hesitate to ask!”

When utilizing price-matching policies, it’s important to note any restrictions or exclusions that may apply. Some stores may have specific guidelines for the type of product, brand, or model they will price match. Additionally, there may be limitations on how the price match is applied, such as only matching prices from physical stores or excluding online-only retailers. Understanding these details will help you make the most of price-matching opportunities and maximize your savings.

By taking advantage of price-matching policies, you can ensure that you’re getting the best possible discounts on Black Friday. Compare prices, gather proof, and confidently shop for the items you want, knowing that you’re getting the most competitive prices available.

Retailer Price-Matching Policy
Store A Store A offers a price-match guarantee and will match the price of any identical product found at a competitor’s store. Proof of the lower price is required.
Store B Store B has a price-match policy that extends to both physical stores and online retailers. They will match the price of an identical product, but the lower price must be advertised and available to the general public. Proof of the lower price is required.
Store C Store C offers a price-match guarantee for both in-store and online purchases. They will match the price of an identical product found at a competitor’s store or website. Proof of the lower price is required.

Use Credit Cards for Added Benefits

When it comes to Black Friday shopping, using credit cards can offer you added benefits and rewards. Many credit card companies have rewards programs that can earn you cash back, discounts, or other perks for your purchases. These rewards can help you save even more money on your Black Friday deals.

Additionally, some credit cards offer extended warranties on your purchases, providing you with additional protection for your items. This can be especially beneficial when buying electronics or other high-value items. By using a credit card with an extended warranty benefit, you can have peace of mind knowing that your purchases are covered for a longer period of time.

Using credit cards for your Black Friday purchases can have added benefits, such as rewards programs and extended warranties, but be cautious of interest-free promotions offered by store credit cards.

However, it’s important to be cautious of interest-free promotions offered by store credit cards. While these promotions may seem tempting, failing to pay off the balance before the promotional period ends can result in high interest charges. It’s important to carefully consider the terms and conditions of any credit card offers before making a decision.

Overall, using credit cards for your Black Friday shopping can provide you with added benefits and rewards. Just be sure to use them responsibly and pay off your balances to avoid high interest charges. By taking advantage of credit card perks and rewards, you can maximize your savings and make the most of your Black Friday shopping experience.

Credit Cards

Credit Card Rewards Program Additional Benefits
Chase Freedom Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases Extended warranty protection
Discover it Cash Back 5% cash back on rotating categories Price protection
Citi Double Cash 2% cash back on all purchases Extended warranty protection

Table: Credit Cards with Rewards Programs and Additional Benefits

Plan Your Shopping Itinerary

Planning your shopping itinerary ahead of time is essential for a successful Black Friday shopping experience. By strategically organizing your route and prioritizing stores, you can save time, navigate crowded shopping centers, and maximize your chances of finding the best deals.

Start by determining which stores you want to visit and researching their locations. Consider the proximity of the stores and choose the most convenient order to visit them. This will help you save time and energy by minimizing travel between locations. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the store layouts and map out your route within each store to efficiently navigate the aisles and departments.

To further optimize your itinerary, create a list of the specific products or deals you’re targeting at each store. This way, you can prioritize your time and focus on the items that are most important to you. Keep in mind that popular items may sell out quickly, so consider visiting these stores earlier in your itinerary to increase your chances of securing them.

Lastly, allocate more time than you expect for your shopping trip. Black Friday can be chaotic and crowded, resulting in longer wait times at checkout counters and crowded aisles. By planning for extra time, you can ensure a stress-free shopping experience and avoid rushing through stores.

Shopping Itinerary

Table: Sample Shopping Itinerary

Store Location Priority Items Estimated Time
Electronics MegaMart 123 Main Street Smart TVs, Gaming Consoles 1.5 hours
Fashion Boutique 456 Center Plaza Winter Coats, Designer Handbags 1 hour
Home Improvement Warehouse 789 Oak Avenue Tools, Appliances 2 hours
Toy Emporium 321 Elm Drive Board Games, Dolls 1.5 hours

This sample shopping itinerary provides a structured approach to your Black Friday shopping trip. By customizing it to your needs and preferences, you can efficiently navigate the stores and ensure that you don’t miss out on any deals.

Download Shopping Apps for Deals and Coupons

When it comes to maximizing your savings on Black Friday, downloading shopping apps can be a game-changer. These apps provide access to exclusive deals, discounts, and coupons that can help you get the best prices on your favorite items. Whether you’re looking for clothing, electronics, or home goods, these apps have you covered.

One popular shopping app is Rakuten, which offers cashback rewards and special offers from a wide range of retailers. By making purchases through the app, you can earn money back on your Black Friday shopping. Flipp is another useful app that allows you to browse weekly flyers and compare prices at different stores. With this app, you can easily find the best deals on the products you want.

If you’re in search of coupons and promo codes, The Coupons App is a must-have. This app provides a vast collection of coupons and allows you to search for deals based on your location. You’ll never miss out on a great discount with this handy app. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, these shopping apps can help you find the best deals and save money on Black Friday.

Shopping Apps

Table: Comparison of Popular Shopping Apps

App Features Availability
Rakuten Cashback rewards, special offers iOS, Android
Flipp Weekly flyers, price comparisons iOS, Android
The Coupons App Coupons, promo codes, location-based deals iOS, Android

Whether you’re looking for the lowest prices, cashback rewards, or exclusive coupons, these shopping apps can help you make the most of your Black Friday shopping experience. Download them today and get ready to score amazing deals!

Understand Return Policies and Fees

Before making any purchases on Black Friday, it’s crucial to understand the return policies and fees of the stores you plan to shop at. Familiarize yourself with their return windows, requirements for returns, and any restocking fees that may apply. Some retailers may have more generous return policies during the holiday season, but it’s important to know the specifics. This will ensure that you can return or exchange any items if needed without any added fees or hassles.

Returning or exchanging items can be a common occurrence during the holiday season, as gifts may not always be the perfect fit. By understanding the return policies, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have options if you need to make a change. Additionally, knowing the timeframe for returns can help you plan accordingly and avoid missing any deadlines.

Restocking fees are another important consideration when making returns. Some stores charge a fee for restocking certain items or for returns made after a certain period of time. Understanding these fees can help you make informed decisions about your purchases and avoid any unexpected costs. Be sure to read the fine print and ask for clarification if needed.

Table: Return Policies Comparison

Retailer Return Window Requirements Restocking Fee
Retailer A 30 days Unused, in original packaging No
Retailer B 14 days Receipt and tags intact Yes, 10%
Retailer C 60 days Proof of purchase No
Retailer D 45 days Original packaging and accessories Yes, 15%

Researching and comparing return policies before Black Friday can save you time and money in the long run. By being aware of the requirements and potential fees, you can make more informed purchasing decisions and ensure a smoother shopping experience.

Return Policies and Fees

“Understanding return policies and fees is essential for a hassle-free Black Friday shopping experience. By knowing the specifics, you can confidently make purchases, knowing that you have options if the need arises to return or exchange items. Take the time to read the fine print and familiarize yourself with the policies of the stores you plan to shop at. This will help you avoid any surprises and make the most of your Black Friday savings.”

Conclusion

By following these Black Friday shopping tips, you can navigate the annual shopping event with ease and maximize your savings. Starting early and taking advantage of pre-Black Friday sales can help you find the best deals before the rush. Utilizing websites, apps, and loyalty programs can assist in tracking prices and comparing offers, ensuring that you get the most bang for your buck.

Creating a budget and sticking to it is crucial to avoid overspending during the exciting shopping frenzy. Understanding store policies, such as price-match guarantees and return policies, can help you make informed decisions and save money. Additionally, leveraging social media and planning your shopping itinerary can further enhance your Black Friday shopping experience.

Remember to research products and create a wish-list ahead of time, allowing you to stay focused and avoid impulse buying. Price-matching policies can save you money by ensuring that you get the lowest price available. Consider using credit cards for added benefits such as rewards programs and extended warranties.

Finally, download shopping apps to access exclusive deals and coupons, and familiarize yourself with return policies to avoid unexpected fees. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle Black Friday, make successful purchases, and maximize your savings.

FAQ

When is Black Friday?

Black Friday falls on the day after Thanksgiving, which is the fourth Thursday in November. It is considered the official start of the holiday shopping season.

How can I make the most of Black Friday shopping?

To make the most of Black Friday shopping, it’s important to start early and take advantage of pre-Black Friday sales. Create a budget, track prices, and compare deals using websites and apps. Utilize store loyalty programs for early access and rewards, and familiarize yourself with store policies.

What are the benefits of online shopping on Black Friday?

Online shopping offers more options and convenience. It allows you to easily compare prices, track sales, and find exclusive online deals. Online shopping also helps you avoid crowds and long lines.

How can I track prices and compare deals?

You can track prices and compare deals by using websites and apps such as Consumer Reports, Google Shopping, and PriceGrabber. Smartphone apps like BuyVia, Shopkick, and ShopSavvy allow you to scan barcodes and compare prices in-store.

Are there any benefits to store loyalty programs?

Store loyalty programs offer members early access to coupons, sales, and promotions. They may also provide additional perks such as checking product availability and offering online purchase and in-store pickup options.

How can I avoid overspending on Black Friday?

Creating a budget and sticking to it is crucial to avoid overspending on Black Friday. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and prioritize your purchases accordingly.

What should I consider about store policies before making a purchase?

Before making any purchases on Black Friday, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the store’s return and exchange policies. Check if they have price-match policies and any restocking fees that may apply.

How can social media help me find deals on Black Friday?

Following your favorite retailers on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can give you access to exclusive deals and promotions. Retailers often reward engagement by providing special alerts for Black Friday discounts and incentives.

How can I research products ahead of time?

Before Black Friday, create a wish-list of the items you want to buy. Research the products ahead of time to make informed decisions about the features and brands you prefer. Look for early deals and discounts from retailers to start your shopping early.

What are the benefits of shopping online on Black Friday?

Shopping online on Black Friday offers convenience and additional perks. Many retailers offer the same deals online as they do in-store, plus extra benefits like free delivery and curbside pickup. It also allows you to avoid crowds and easily compare prices.

How can I take advantage of price-matching policies?

Many retailers offer price-matching guarantees, allowing you to get the lowest price available, even if it’s from a competitor. Check if the store has a price-match policy and gather proof of the lower price to save money.

What are the benefits of using credit cards for Black Friday purchases?

Using credit cards for Black Friday purchases can offer benefits like cash back, discounts, and extended warranties. However, be cautious of interest-free promotions offered by store credit cards, as failure to pay off the balance in time can result in high interest charges.

How can I plan my Black Friday shopping itinerary?

Planning your shopping itinerary ahead of time can help you make the most of your Black Friday experience. Determine which stores you want to visit and plan your route accordingly. Allocate more time than you expect, considering the chaotic and crowded nature of Black Friday shopping.

What are the benefits of downloading shopping apps for Black Friday?

Downloading shopping apps can provide access to exclusive deals and coupons. Apps like Rakuten, Flipp, and The Coupons App offer a wide range of discounts and money-saving opportunities.

Why is it important to understand return policies and fees?

Before making any purchases on Black Friday, it’s crucial to understand the return policies and fees of the stores you plan to shop at. Familiarize yourself with their return windows, requirements, and any restocking fees that may apply.

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