Black Friday: The Biggest Day for Online Shopping

The Significance of Black Friday

Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season in the United States and beyond. Historically known for deep discounts and bustling shopping malls, it has transitioned into a massive online shopping event. This year, it’s projected to drive a staggering $78 billion in global online sales and $18 billion in the U.S. alone, according to data from Salesforce, a leading cloud-based software company.

Shopping Habits Post-Thanksgiving

The shopping frenzy kicks off on Thanksgiving Day itself, with online sales expected to rise 6% from the previous year, reaching $8.6 billion in the U.S. These numbers reflect a growing reliability on e-commerce platforms as consumers find themselves drawn to the allure of substantial discounts, even amidst economic uncertainties influenced by tariff changes.

As of 2 p.m. ET on Thanksgiving, spending statistics revealed a 5.8% increase compared to the same timeframe in 2022, amounting to $2.6 billion. Globally, consumers have already splurged $13.1 billion, with expectations for digital sales to soar to $36 billion by the end of Thanksgiving Day.

Retailer Performance and Consumer Sentiment

Retailers are well aware of the stakes involved in this shopping bonanza. Electronics giant Best Buy reported strong interest in discounted computers, laptops, and smartphones, while clothing retail chains like Gap and Abercrombie & Fitch have also expressed optimism given the current demand.

Despite an overall weak consumer sentiment due to economic fluctuations, the latest results from American retailers indicate that shoppers are still keen on purchasing gifts and essentials, seeking out great bargains. This resiliency demonstrates that, even in turbulent times, the desire to celebrate the holiday season and give gifts prevails.

Economic Underpinnings

The backdrop for this year’s shopping season is marked by economic uncertainty brought on by President Donald Trump’s tariffs on imported goods. These tariffs have raised the costs for both retailers and consumers, adding an extra layer of complexity to holiday shopping strategies. As many forecast a muted holiday sales season, brands are relying more heavily than ever on promotions and discounts to attract value-seeking consumers.

Sales Projections and Trends

Sales forecasts this holiday season reflect cautious consumer behavior. For instance, Mastercard data reveals that promotional activities will notably influence spending patterns as holiday shoppers prioritize value.

Salesforce predicts that U.S. online sales growth during the 2025 holiday season will slow compared to previous years. Estimated online spending from November 1 to December 31 is set to rise 2.1% to $288 billion, a significant drop from last year’s 4% increase to $282 billion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When is Black Friday 2025?

A1: Black Friday 2025 will fall on November 28.

Q2: What about Thanksgiving sales?

A2: Global spending on Thanksgiving has already reached $13.1 billion, with digital sales projected to hit $36 billion globally by the end of Thursday, demonstrating the potent combination of holiday spirit and online shopping accessibility.

With the rise of e-commerce and ever-evolving consumer expectations, Black Friday continues to redefine itself, solidifying its place as a pivotal day for retailers worldwide.