A New Era of Bargain Hunting: The Allure of Island Black Friday
In a world where bargain hunting has become a national pastime, a new concept is redefining the retail experience. Welcome to Island Black Friday, a 12,000-square-foot store on Hempstead Turnpike in Levittown, NY, where the thrill of the hunt meets the excitement of a treasure trove. This innovative "bin store" specializes in selling returned and overstocked items from major retailers like Amazon, Target, Home Depot, Walmart, and Costco, offering customers the chance to snag high-value merchandise for a fraction of its original price. Every Friday, the store transforms into a frenzy of activity, with shoppers braving the elements and lining up early to snag deals that start at just $12 an item, with prices dropping daily.
How It Works: The Unique Bargain-Hunting Model
The store’s unique model is as intriguing as it is effective. Items are placed in mystery boxes—some in original manufacturer packaging, others in nondescript brown boxes. The prices are staggered throughout the week: $12 on Fridays, $10 on Saturdays, $8 on Sundays, and so on, until Wednesdays, when items are just $1. This creates a sense of urgency and keeps customers coming back for more. On Fridays, the store’s peak day, items are rolled out on long-wheeled tables covered in black tablecloths to build suspense. Before the shopping begins, co-owner Joseph Shuaib takes to a megaphone to remind everyone of the rules: no touching the merchandise until the official start, no opening boxes, and hands up to ensure fairness.
The Thrill of the hunt: A Shopper’s Paradise
When the fabric is pulled back, chaos ensues in the best possible way. Shoppers of all ages dive in, grabbing boxes, tossing them into their carts, and hoping for the best. Some items are revealed to be high-value treasures—like a $400 HP laptop or a $700 Apple iPhone—while others remain a mystery until employees open them at the checkout counter. If a customer decides they don’t want an item after seeing what’s inside, the box is resealed and put back on the floor for someone else to try. This element of surprise adds to the excitement, making every shopping trip feel like a gamble worth taking.
More Than Just Bargains: Community and Connection
Island Black Friday isn’t just about saving money—it’s about the experience. The store has become a hub for like-minded bargain hunters, many of whom have formed friendships and rituals around their visits. Take Maria Machado, a 54-year-old Freeport homemaker, who calls the experience “exciting” and has even won prizes in the store’s daily raffles. Or Jill Steiger, a 72-year-old retiree from Wantagh, who has been following the store’s owners since their previous venture, Crazy Hot Deals in Bethpage. She visits daily, not because she needs anything, but because it’s become a social outing she cherishes.
A Family Affair: The Story Behind Island Black Friday
The brains behind this operation are cousins Joseph and Ali Shuaib, who brought their concept to life six months ago. Before opening Island Black Friday, they owned Crazy Hot Deals, where they honed their unique approach to bargain shopping. The Shuaibs understand the psychology of their customers and have built a business model that keeps people coming back for more. Their commitment to community extends beyond the store: on Thursdays, they donate surplus items to local churches and schools, while also focusing on selling discounted furniture and preparing for the next Friday’s restock.
A Secret Worth Sharing: The Island Black Friday Phenomenon
As word of this bargain hunter’s paradise spreads, more and more Long Islanders are discovering the joy of Island Black Friday. For some, like Rachell Rosales Cardena, a 32-year-old nurse from East Northport, it’s a way to unwind after a long shift. For others, like David Lopez, a 35-year-old from Selden, it’s a family affair. The store’s ability to combine value, variety, and excitement has created a loyal following, with many customers eager to keep it under the radar. Whether you’re a seasoned bargain hunter or just looking for a fun day out, Island Black Friday offers something for everyone. Its location at 3131 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown, NY 11756, and extended hours make it easy to join the adventure and see what treasures you can uncover.
