As Black Friday approaches, experts are urging consumers to be cautious about utilizing “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) offers, particularly amid a growing number of individuals seeking assistance with shopping-related debts. Recent surveys indicate that over one-third of British shoppers plan to use this payment option during the sales period, which is anticipated to generate billions in spending both online and in physical stores.
Debt charities, such as Citizens Advice, report a significant increase in cases related to BNPL, stating they are assisting more people than ever with these types of issues. They advise consumers to proceed with caution, especially if they are already facing financial challenges. Last month set a record for inquiries regarding BNPL debt, and further increases are expected in January and February as consumers deal with the aftermath of holiday spending.
The popularity of BNPL has surged in recent years, with usage jumping from 14% to 25% of UK adults within the last year. This payment method allows shoppers to split their purchases into three or four installments, typically without incurring interest, as long as they adhere to the repayment schedule. However, there are concerns regarding potential risks, particularly for those who may struggle to make payments on time, which could lead to charges, debt accumulation, and damage to credit scores.
More than 3 million customers reportedly missed BNPL payments last year, resulting in some facing actions from debt collectors. The peak of BNPL transactions coincides with Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which collectively drive substantial consumer spending. According to predictions from PwC UK, UK consumers are expected to spend £6.4 billion during this year’s Black Friday.
In July 2026, the Financial Conduct Authority plans to enforce new regulations on BNPL, which may include mandatory affordability checks for lenders. This timeframe marks the last Black Friday and Christmas season prior to the implementation of consumer protection measures related to BNPL transactions.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/money/2025/nov/22/beware-buy-now-pay-later-temptation-black-friday-debt-charities-warn