South African consumers have been urged to shop responsibly as retailers begin to advertise Black Friday deals, just weeks before the annual Christmas shopping rush. The warning comes as millions of consumers buckle under the pressure of a rising cost of living and high unemployment rates, which have left some shoppers unable to access much credit. Instead of impulsive buying, shoppers have been advised to maximise the savings from Black Friday deals to cover Christmas gifts or even back-to-school essentials. For more on how YOU, the consumer can navigate this period, Bongiwe Zwane spoke to National Consumer Commission Spokesperson, Pheto Ntaba