How AI Revolutionized Black Friday Shopping: The Numbers Are In!
Black Friday has always been a big deal for shoppers and retailers alike, but this year, something remarkable happened. Thanks to AI-driven shopping tools, online spending skyrocketed, and the numbers are truly impressive! According to Adobe Analytics, US shoppers spent a record $11.8 billion online on Black Friday, marking a 9.1% increase from the previous year. That’s a significant jump, and it showcases how much we’ve turned to digital platforms in our quest for holiday deals.
One of the standout stats? AI traffic to US retail sites surged by an astonishing 805% compared to last year. This shift was largely driven by AI agents like Walmart’s Sparky and Amazon’s Rufus, which weren’t available last year. These tools have transformed how we shop—making it easier for us to find what we need without the chaos of crowded stores. Suzy Davidkhanian from eMarketer points out that the use of large language models (LLMs) can significantly reduce the stress associated with gift-giving, guiding consumers to their desired products more efficiently.
Interestingly, nearly half of the respondents in an Adobe survey indicated that they either had used or planned to use AI for online shopping this season. This revealing insight shows just how integral AI has become to our shopping experience.
Globally, AI and agents contributed to $14.2 billion in online sales, with the US alone accounting for $3 billion. It’s clear that as we adapt to a digital-first shopping culture, AI is leading the charge. Hot products this Black Friday included LEGO sets, gaming consoles, and popular gadgets like Apple AirPods and KitchenAid mixers, highlighting what shoppers are really after this holiday season.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. Although spending rose, price increases have tempered overall demand. Data from Salesforce shows that while US consumers spent about $18 billion on Black Friday, order volumes actually fell by 1%, with average selling prices climbing by 7%. This means shoppers were purchasing fewer items than the year before. The reasons? Increased tariffs and a shifting consumer demographic where higher-income earners are making a more significant impact on luxury sales.
Looking ahead, the stage is set for an even bigger Cyber Monday, projected to pull in $14.2 billion in sales. Discounts on electronics could reach as much as 30%, making it an excellent time for savvy shoppers to snag deals. However, there’s a notable caution among shoppers. Many are conscious of their spending, factoring in inflation and uncertainties in the economy.
In the midst of the excitement and deals, Lesliee Antonette, a shopper at a Best Buy in Los Angeles, encapsulates the mindset for many this holiday: “I got a good deal on the ice cream maker, but I was very aware of prices on everything in the store.” It’s a reminder that while we’re eager to score great deals, we’re also more thoughtful about our spending than ever.
As you navigate your holiday shopping, consider how AI tools can enhance your experience—helping you discover items faster and more efficiently. If you want to dive deeper into how technology can shape your shopping journey, connect with Pro21st!
This holiday season may be different from past ones, but with the rise of AI, there’s plenty of reason to be optimistic as we navigate through our wish lists!
