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It's about more than just deep discounts.
When it comes to Black Friday, it’s not all about deep discounts. At least, that’s what some indie brands are setting out to prove. With the exponential rise of consumerism, Black Friday is arguably one of the largest shopping days of the year — and a major culprit when it comes to over-production. Perhaps it’s time to take a step back and try a different approach this year. Enter Alternative Black Friday.
Indie brands are coming up with ways to participate in Black Friday without contributing to a culture of consumerism. From planting trees to creating jobs in small villages of third-world countries, brands are giving back and investing in the environment and well being of others, rather than simply driving sales and revenue.
The Alternative Black Friday movement began with REI, who shut down on Black Friday while still paying employees for the day. In its stead, they promoted their #OptOutside campaign encouraging people to enjoy the great outdoors instead of shopping in-store or at their computers.
Since then, the movement is growing in popularity among indie brands like The Series and Come Back As A Flower with options for participating in Black Friday in a more ethical way. Read on for 3 brands joining the Alternative Black Friday Movement, ahead.
We only include products that have been independently selected by Bustle's editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
1
Come Back As A Flower
Come Back As A Flower and Seed have partnered this holiday season on a sweatshirt that costs $0, meaning it cannot be bought, it must be earned. It centers around an at-home science class that can be found on Instagram, through which the consumer will learn about the connection between humans and the environment in a 6-day digital event. After completing the course, users will receive a limited-edition, sustainable sweatshirt from CBAAF + Seed for free.
2
Dagsmejan
Dagsmejan is going to be planting one tree for every order placed on Black Friday through Cyber Monday in partnership with the Eden Reforestation Project, which is a non-profit that hires local villagers to plant trees, helping the environment and creating jobs at the same time.
3
Supply Your Own Puffer Project
The Series by Ella Wiznia is launching the 'Supply Your Own Puffer' project on Black Friday. During this program, the brand is inviting you to dig out anything cozy from your storage closet or under your bed (think: adolescent comforter, vintage quilt, childhood sleeping bag, and more) and send it their way. From that unique item, they will transform it into a puffer jacket to keep you warm all Winter long.
The jackets will be limited to 10 per month, so get your order in ASAP. They will retail for $240 plus shipping, and promise to be completed within 3-4 weeks, if not sooner.
