Discover Top Black Friday 2024 Shopping Trends Now
Black Friday: A Multi-Billion Dollar Opportunity?
Excitement for Black Friday 2024 is growing, with this year promising dramatic changes in how people purchase. Mobile shopping is dominant, social media is transforming how customers find bargains, and AI is assisting companies in better connecting with customers. These modifications underline the need to plan ahead of time to make the most of this huge retail event.?
This event has solidified its place as a global shopping phenomenon. In 2023, U.S. online sales reached $9.8 billion, and projections for 2024 exceed $10 billion. Global revenues are expected to hit $12.3 billion by 2025. This growth highlights the continued evolution of consumer behavior fueled by early shopping trends, personalized marketing, and the integration of advanced technologies.
Social Media’s Influence on Black Friday Shopping
Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are central to modern shopping habits. 41% of consumers now rely on social media for purchasing decisions, and this number rises to 46% among 18-24-year-olds. Women, in particular, are more likely (47%) than men (36%) to turn to social platforms for product discovery.
For younger shoppers, these platforms have overtaken traditional search engines as preferred tools for finding deals, making them essential for Black Friday marketing strategies. Brands using visually engaging, time-sensitive promotions can connect effectively with Gen Z and millennial audiences.
Mobile Geo-Targeting: Reaching Shoppers Anywhere
According to Salesforce, mobile phones accounted for a record 79% of Cyber Week e-commerce traffic in 2023, up from 76% in 2022. This statistic highlights the increasing reliance on mobile devices for online commerce, as well as the relevance of location-based advertising. Geo-targeting enables marketers to provide targeted adverts depending on the user's location, enhancing relevancy and conversions. For example, retailers might utilize targeted advertisements to direct local customers to flash specials or limited-time deals.
The development of mobile messaging via SMS and WhatsApp increases the effectiveness of geo-targeting. These channels had strong open rates on Black Friday. Real-time, location-based ads ensure that companies get consumers' attention when it counts the most.
DOOH Advertising: Capturing Attention on the Move
Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) advertising is a cornerstone of Black Friday campaigns. Positioned in high-traffic areas like malls and transit hubs, DOOH displays offer dynamic, visually engaging content. Unlike static ads, they can adapt to local weather conditions, peak shopping times, or product availability, making them highly relevant to on-the-go shoppers.
By combining DOOH with mobile geo-targeting, brands create a cohesive consumer journey that bridges the gap between physical and digital touchpoints. QR codes on DOOH screens, for example, can lead shoppers directly to online stores or exclusive deals, seamlessly integrating in-store and online experiences.
AI’s Role in Black Friday 2024 Shopping
Artificial intelligence is changing significantly the way consumers shop and how brands engage with them. 44% of shoppers plan to use AI tools this year to find the best deals, compare prices, and get gifting inspiration. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT are becoming integral, with 42% of users leveraging AI for gift ideas and 56% using it to identify discounts.
For retailers, AI enhances campaign optimization, customer interactions, and inventory management. Predictive analytics help forecast demand, while AI-powered chatbots provide real-time support, guiding shoppers from discovery to purchase with ease.
Early Shopping Trends Dominate
Consumers are shopping earlier than ever, with 54% starting their Black Friday purchases at least a week in advance. Retailers that launch pre-event promotions and targeted campaigns early are more likely to capture this audience. Social media plays a pivotal role here, offering a platform for brands to engage shoppers before the rush fully begins.
Black Friday: Top-Selling Categories and Changing Preferences
Understanding what shoppers are looking for is key to crafting successful Black Friday campaigns. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular categories and trends driving consumer behavior:
Sustainability is becoming a significant factor, especially in Europe, where consumers increasingly favor brands with eco-friendly practices. Highlighting sustainable products in marketing campaigns is an effective way to attract environmentally conscious shoppers.
Connecting Digital and Physical Shopping
While online shopping is growing, 70% of Black Friday sales still happen in physical stores. Retailers must embrace omnichannel strategies, blending digital campaigns with in-store experiences. QR codes on DOOH displays or push notifications through mobile apps are tools that link online and offline shopping seamlessly, ensuring a unified consumer experience.
Furthermore, AI supports this integration by delivering personalized recommendations across platforms and ensuring consistency in messaging. Retailers that adopt these tools can build stronger connections with their audiences while maximizing engagement and sales.
Sustainability Matters
Black Friday’s environmental impact is a growing concern. UK sales alone in 2023 generated 386,243 tonnes of CO2, raising awareness about the need for sustainable shopping practices. Retailers promoting eco-conscious products and green initiatives are well-positioned to resonate with environmentally aware consumers.
Conclusion: A New Era of Black Friday Marketing
Black Friday 2024 offers immense opportunities for retailers to connect with shoppers through mobile geo-targeting, DOOH advertising, social media, and AI-powered tools. By embracing early shopping trends, sustainability, and personalized messaging, brands can stand out in a competitive landscape.
Moreover, integrating these strategies will drive sales and foster long-term consumer loyalty, ensuring success during the holiday season and beyond.