Mobile, AL, November 29, 2025

Black Friday 2025 experienced a major shift in consumer shopping habits as online sales reached a record $8.6 billion by the evening, a 9.4% increase from the previous year. Economic concerns like inflation influenced shoppers to prefer online retail over in-store shopping, with major retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy leading extensive promotional campaigns ahead of the holiday weekend. As sales surpassed expectations, the trend towards digital shopping became increasingly evident, setting the stage for a dynamic holiday shopping season that extends into Cyber Monday.

Black Friday 2025: Record Online Sales and Major Discounts

Mobile, AL – Black Friday 2025 marked a significant moment in the evolution of consumer shopping behavior. With online sales soaring to a record $8.6 billion by 6:30 p.m. ET, reflecting a 9.4% increase from the previous year, shoppers displayed a clear preference for online retail experiences. This notable shift is attributed to various factors including unfavorable weather conditions and economic concerns such as inflation and a fragile job market. While physical stores initially saw subdued foot traffic, end-of-day projections suggest that final online sales for Black Friday could range between $11.7 billion and $11.9 billion, potentially solidifying a new record. Following this trend, Saturday is expected to garner $5.5 billion in online sales, a 3.8% increase, and Sunday is forecasted for $5.9 billion at an uptick of 5.4%. Cyber Monday, however, is anticipated to eclipse these numbers as the peak shopping day with projected spending reaching $14.2 billion, up 6.3% from last year.

Retailers across the United States geared up for substantial consumer engagement over the Black Friday weekend, marking the start of the holiday shopping season which is vital for their annual revenue. The National Retail Federation (NRF) projected that around 186.9 million Americans would participate in shopping activities from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday. While holiday sales were anticipated to exceed $1 trillion for the first time, growth rates were expected to slow to between 3.7% and 4.2%, in contrast with last year’s figure of 4.8%. The average consumer was projected to spend approximately $890.49 during this shopping spree, with inflationary pressures steering shoppers towards seeking bargains rather than indulging in significant purchases.

Retailer Strategies and Discount Highlights

Major retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, Kohl’s, Target, and Walmart launched extensive promotional sales well before the weekend, with many starting as early as the Friday preceding Cyber Monday. Amazon’s promotions spanned from November 20 to December 1, representing one of the longest sales periods to date. Best Buy introduced its deals under a “Cyber Sunday and Monday” umbrella, offering discounts of up to 50%. Kohl’s operated its Cyber Days offering $15 Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent. Target embraced technology, unveiling new AI shopping tools alongside significant discounts, while Walmart’s deals were actively available both in-store and online throughout the weekend. Target also revived its unique gift card promotion, selling 6 million cards during last year’s event.

Consumer Trends: Online vs. In-Store Shopping

The inclination of consumers toward online shopping continued to grow during Black Friday 2025, with online spending on Thanksgiving alone rising 5.3% year-over-year to $6.4 billion. Economic variables such as persistent inflation and a soft job market played a critical role in influencing shoppers to budget more judiciously and avoid excessive debt. Traditional in-store attendance was notably lower this year, as fewer individuals lined up for promotional deals, though some consumers were still drawn in by considerable discounts.

Technology and Appliance Discounts

In the technology sector, Meta showcased significant Black Friday discounts on its flagship products: the Meta Quest VR headsets and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. The Meta Quest 3 and 3S, known for providing immersive gaming and fitness experiences, were offered for £249.99, down from £289.99. In parallel, Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, which feature a built-in AI Assistant and Ultra HD camera, were advertised starting at £239, lowered from £299. The deals on Meta Quest are set to remain valid through December 21, while the Ray-Ban promotion ends on December 1.

Shark, a popular home appliance brand, also delivered major discounts of up to 50% on its various products in both the US and the UK. Promotional highlights included top-rated vacuums and hair care products, with well-known retailers participating in these sales such as Amazon and Walmart in the US as well as Amazon UK and John Lewis in the UK. Notable offers in the US included the Shark PowerDetect Clean + Empty cordless vacuum priced at $379 (down from $599) and substantial markdowns on various other appliances, compelling consumers to upgrade their home equipment at record low prices.

Conclusion: A Shifting Retail Landscape

In sum, Black Friday 2025 was characterized by a remarkable transition towards online shopping, as consumers prioritized convenience and savings amid economic uncertainties. Retailers responded proactively with extended sales and innovative promotions aimed at captivating shoppers, ultimately leading to record-breaking online sales and generous discounts. As we move towards the remainder of the holiday season, community engagement and consumer initiatives are vital in supporting local businesses and fostering economic resilience. Civic involvement remains crucial in these changing times, encouraging residents of Louisville and beyond to stay engaged and invest in their communities.

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Author: HERE LOUISVILLE