Black Friday (and the newer but nevertheless popular Cyber Monday) has come and gone for another year - but not without significant hiccups for some unlucky - and possibly unprepared - retailers. Site-busting deals and multi-channel, round-the-clock promotion of these bargains drives more and more shoppers to beat the crowds and shop online. But, as many a dissatisfied shopper complained across social media channels, what is the point of offering exceptional deals that no one can take advantage of?

We're only about two months away from the Christmas holiday, and one month from the long Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend, long celebrated as a shopping extravaganza.