AI Tools Propel Record Online Sales on Black Friday: A Digital Shopping Revolution

AI-driven shopping tools significantly boosted U.S. online spending on Black Friday, as consumers navigated economic challenges and rising tariffs. This led to a 9.1% spending increase from 2024, with AI contributing significantly to $14.2 billion in global sales. Physical store shopping remained subdued, highlighting the shift towards e-commerce.

AI-powered shopping tools fueled a notable increase in U.S. online spending on Black Friday, as consumers avoided crowded brick-and-mortar stores and opted instead to use chatbots for price comparisons and discounts amidst tariff-induced price hikes. Adobe Analytics reported a record $11.8 billion was spent online, a 9.1% rise from 2024.

The holiday shopping period comes as households face budget constraints, with unemployment near a four-year peak, and U.S. consumer confidence dropping to a seven-month low. Despite these challenges, online shopping saw demand grow, with Mastercard SpendingPulse highlighting a 10.4% increase in e-commerce on Black Friday, in contrast to a 1.7% growth at physical stores.

Globally, AI and digital agents impacted $14.2 billion in Black Friday sales, Salesforce noted, of which $3 billion was from the U.S. alone. The popularity of products like LEGO sets and gaming consoles indicates a significant shift towards online stimulus, setting a promising prospect for Cyber Monday.

(With inputs from agencies.)