Table of contents:
Online sales growth
Black Friday online sales surged by 14.6 per cent compared to the previous year, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse. Adobe Analytics reported that U.S. consumers spent USD 10.8 billion online on Black Friday, surpassing the USD 9.8 billion recorded in 2023. Thanksgiving Day also broke records, with USD 6.1 billion spent online.
Shopify reported USD 5 billion in global sales during Black Friday. The average cart value for U.S. shoppers was approximately USD 157. Popular products included apparel, skincare items, and vitamins. In-store sales grew by less than 1 per cent, further emphasizing the shift toward digital shopping platforms.
- Thanksgiving Day online sales: USD 6.1 billion
- Shopify Black Friday sales: USD 5 billion globally
- Average cart value: USD 157
Top product categories
Jewelry, electronics, and apparel were the most purchased items on Black Friday. Mastercard highlighted significant growth in apparel sales, even with warmer-than-usual weather. Restaurants also saw increased spending the day after Thanksgiving.
The National Retail Federation (NRF) estimated that Americans would spend an average of USD 902 per person during the holiday season, including USD 261 on food, candy, and decorations. Attractive discounts encouraged shoppers to prioritize purchases in these popular categories.
- Top categories: Jewelry, electronics, and clothing
- Average holiday spending per person: USD 902
- Spending on food and decorations: USD 261
Environmental concerns
The unprecedented sales figures have sparked discussions about overconsumption and waste. Flora Bagenal, producer of Netflix’s Buy Now documentary, pointed out the environmental impact of mass-produced goods. Electronics, toys, and clothing often end up discarded quickly, contributing to waste cycles.
Bagenal encouraged consumers to prioritize durable and sustainable products when shopping. Her insights underscore the need for balancing consumer habits with environmental responsibility, especially during high-consumption periods like Black Friday.
- Waste concerns from mass-produced items
- Encouraging mindful and sustainable shopping
- Focus on durable goods over disposable options
As Black Friday continues to set records, it highlights both the economic power of consumers and the challenges of promoting sustainability. These trends will shape future discussions around shopping habits and environmental impact.
source: CTV News
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