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Record $11.8 Billion Spent Online on Black Friday Amid Economic Uncertainty

People shopping online during Black Friday sale

Jacksonville, Florida, November 30, 2025

U.S. consumers spent a record $11.8 billion online on Black Friday, marking a 9.1% increase from the previous year despite economic challenges. The surge in online spending was driven by AI-powered shopping tools, enhancing consumer experience. Overall retail sales reached $18 billion, with electronics and branded items among the top sellers. Cyber Monday is projected to surpass Black Friday, with anticipated sales of $14.2 billion.

Jacksonville, Florida

Record $11.8 Billion Spent Online on Black Friday Amid Economic Uncertainty

Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. consumers spent a record $11.8 billion online on Black Friday, November 28, 2025, marking a 9.1% increase from the previous year. This surge in online spending occurred despite ongoing economic challenges, including high unemployment and inflation. The data, reported by Adobe Analytics, highlights a significant shift toward e-commerce as consumers seek convenience and deals during the holiday shopping season.

AI-Driven Shopping Tools Boost Online Sales

The rise in online spending was largely driven by AI-powered shopping tools that helped consumers find deals more efficiently. Adobe Analytics noted an 805% surge in AI-driven retail site traffic, with tools like Walmart’s Sparky and Amazon’s Rufus assisting in the shopping process. These technologies have become integral in enhancing the online shopping experience, making it more personalized and efficient for consumers.

Overall Retail Sales and Economic Impact

Overall retail sales, including both online and in-store purchases, reached $18 billion, up 3% year-over-year. In-store sales saw a modest 1.7% increase, indicating a continued preference for online shopping. Despite lingering economic challenges such as high unemployment and inflation, consumers turned to e-commerce, showing a 10.4% increase in online sales compared to just 1.7% growth for in-store sales, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse. This trend underscores the growing dominance of online shopping in the retail sector.

Product Categories and Consumer Behavior

Electronics, games, and branded items like LEGO sets and Apple AirPods were among the top sellers. The strong demand for these products reflects consumer confidence in purchasing high-ticket items during the holiday season. Additionally, the use of “buy now, pay later” plans has increased, with such payment methods contributing to a significant portion of online sales. This trend indicates a shift in consumer behavior toward managing spending through flexible payment options.

Looking Ahead: Cyber Monday Projections

Cyber Monday is forecasted to surpass Black Friday, with sales projected at $14.2 billion and electronics seeing discounts of up to 30%. This projection suggests that consumers are expected to continue their spending spree, taking advantage of post-Thanksgiving deals. Retailers are likely to offer competitive discounts to attract shoppers, further driving sales during the holiday season.

Conclusion

The record-breaking online sales on Black Friday 2025 demonstrate the resilience of consumer spending amid economic uncertainties. The integration of AI technologies and flexible payment options has played a pivotal role in shaping shopping behaviors, leading to a significant shift toward e-commerce. As the holiday season progresses, these trends are expected to continue, with online sales playing an increasingly dominant role in the retail landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What was the total online spending on Black Friday 2025?

Consumers spent a record $11.8 billion online on Black Friday, November 28, 2025, marking a 9.1% increase from the previous year.

How did AI-driven shopping tools impact online sales?

AI-powered shopping tools, such as Walmart’s Sparky and Amazon’s Rufus, contributed to an 805% surge in AI-driven retail site traffic, enhancing the online shopping experience and driving sales.

What were the top-selling product categories on Black Friday 2025?

Electronics, games, and branded items like LEGO sets and Apple AirPods were among the top sellers on Black Friday 2025.

What is the projected sales figure for Cyber Monday 2025?

Cyber Monday is forecasted to surpass Black Friday, with sales projected at $14.2 billion, indicating continued consumer spending during the holiday season.

How have economic uncertainties affected consumer spending during the holiday season?

Despite economic challenges such as high unemployment and inflation, consumers have turned to e-commerce, showing a 10.4% increase in online sales compared to just 1.7% growth for in-store sales, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse.

Key Features of Black Friday 2025 Sales

Feature Details
Total Online Sales $11.8 billion, a 9.1% increase from the previous year
AI-Driven Shopping Tools 805% surge in AI-driven retail site traffic, with tools like Walmart’s Sparky and Amazon’s Rufus enhancing the shopping experience
Top-Selling Products Electronics, games, and branded items like LEGO sets and Apple AirPods
In-Store Sales Growth 1.7% increase, indicating a continued preference for online shopping
Cyber Monday Projection Sales projected at $14.2 billion, surpassing Black Friday

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STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER

The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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