What: Amazon reports its biggest-ever Black Friday Week and Cyber Monday, with record sales driven by electronics, beauty, and toys, while independent sellers contributed over 60% of total sales during the 12-day period.

Why it is important: The success demonstrates Amazon's ability to leverage its pricing power and vast seller network to capture consumer spending during a critical shopping period, despite economic uncertainties and increased competition. This record-breaking event underscores Amazon's dominance in e-commerce, particularly in attracting value-conscious consumers through a combination of competitive pricing and broad product selection from both independent sellers and direct retail.

Amazon's Black Friday Week and Cyber Monday event, running from November 21 to December 2, achieved unprecedented sales volumes across its platform. Electronics, beauty, and toys emerged as the top-selling categories, with specific items like Beats headphones, Samsung TVs, and Barbie products leading consumer demand. The event marked a significant milestone for independent sellers, who generated more than 60% of total sales. According to e-commerce analytics firm Profitero, Amazon maintained its competitive edge by offering prices averaging 14% lower than other leading US retailers. CEO Doug Herrington emphasised the company's focus on customer savings, noting that shoppers saved billions during the event, with plans for additional savings opportunities throughout the holiday season.

IADS Notes: While global online sales reached $74.4 billion during Black Friday, Amazon's success was particularly notable due to its strategic pricing approach and effective use of AI for personalised shopping experiences. This comprehensive strategy helped maintain its market leadership during the crucial holiday shopping period.

Amazon reports record-breaking Black Friday week & Cyber Monday