The Impact of Black Friday 2024 on Raw Materials: How Does It Affect Mexico and the World?

Black Friday 2024: But at What Cost? Black Friday 2024 is just around the corner, and with it comes an avalanche of discounts, frantic shopping, and record sales. But behind the shine of store windows and irresistible offers, there is a world of impacts that extends to raw materials, those essential resources that sustain our global economy. How does this discount season affect the raw materials market? And what role does Mexico play in this phenomenon? Black Friday and Raw Materials: What Do They Have in Common? When we talk about raw materials, we refer to basic resources like metals, oil, cotton, or agricultural products that are the foundation of goods production. Black Friday triggers product demand, from electronics to clothing and food, which translates into an increase in raw material use. Imagine this: millions of consumers in Mexico and the world acquiring cell phones, televisions, clothes, and appliances in a single day. To produce these goods, tons of lithium, copper, cotton, paper, plastic, and fuels are needed. This massive demand not only impacts the availability of these resources but also alters their prices. Mexico and the Black Friday Boom In 2024, Mexico has consolidated as a key player in international raw materials trade. We are a leading country in oil, copper, and silver production, in addition to being an important exporter of avocado, coffee, and textiles. However, this prominence comes with challenges, especially during seasons like Black Friday. Oil and logistics: Mexico, as a producer and exporter of oil, feels the impact of high fuel demand for goods transportation. During Black Friday, logistics companies increase their operations, consuming more diesel and gasoline. Metal mining: Copper, essential for electronic devices, is one of Mexico's main export products. During Black Friday, the increase in technology sales drives demand for this metal, generating benefits for the sector, but also pressuring local mines. The agricultural sector: The growing demand for food and packaging during this season also impacts Mexican producers of avocado, coffee, and paper. The E-commerce Boom and Its Relationship with Raw Materials Black Friday 2024 is marked by impressive e-commerce growth in Mexico. According to recent data, more than 70% of Mexican consumers plan to make online purchases during this season. This has direct consequences on raw materials, as: Cardboard and plastic packaging: Shipping millions of packages generates massive consumption of paper, cardboard, and petroleum-derived plastics. Accelerated transportation: Shipping companies like FedEx, DHL, or Estafeta are using more fossil fuels to meet express delivery times. Data centers: The boom in online commerce also increases energy and material demand to maintain servers, which depends on resources like copper and lithium. What's Happening with Prices? Black Friday not only affects raw material availability but also their prices. In 2024, we've seen interesting trends: Oil: The increase in land and air transportation demand generates a slight rise in crude oil prices. This impacts logistics companies and, therefore, the cost of final products. Metals like lithium and copper: With growing sales of electronic devices, these metals have become more expensive during the months leading up to Black Friday. Cotton: Fashion doesn't fall behind, and the high volume of cheap clothing sales can also increase cotton and other textile fiber prices. Sustainability: The Great Challenge of Black Friday 2024 Environmental impact is a topic we cannot ignore. The massive consumption of raw materials to satisfy Black Friday demand generates important challenges: Packaging waste: Every year, tons of cardboard and plastic end up in landfills after this season. Resource exploitation: Pressure on mines and agricultural fields can lead to over-exploitation, affecting ecosystems. Carbon emissions: Accelerated transportation and energy consumption in data centers increase the global carbon footprint. How Does Mexico Adapt to This Challenge? In 2024, many Mexican companies are implementing more sustainable practices. From using biodegradable packaging to investing in renewable energy, the country seeks to balance economic development with environmental care. Additionally, governmental initiatives like promoting the circular economy are helping to reduce the environmental impact of mass consumption. The Role of the Mexican Consumer Mexican consumers are also changing. This Black Friday, more people are prioritizing responsible purchases, opting for products from local brands or with sustainable practices. Some tips to take advantage of Black Friday without harming the environment are: Buy quality products that last longer. Choose brands that use recycled or biodegradable packaging. Reduce impulse purchases and focus on real needs. Mexico, Raw Materials, and the Future of Black Friday Black Friday 2024 is much more than a discount day. It's a phenomenon that moves economies, transforms industries, and directly affects the raw materials market. For Mexico, this season represents an opportunity to strengthen its position in global trade, but also a challenge to sustainably manage its natural resources. As consumers, we have the power to influence this dynamic. Opting for more conscious consumption and supporting responsible practices can make a difference, not only for the environment but also for our country's economy. Ready for Black Friday? Remember that every purchase has an impact on raw materials and the planet's future!