Black Friday 2011 Brings Out Record Breaking Numbers
The numbers are in, and I think it’s safe to say that Black Friday was a smashing success. But you don’t need to take my word for it. Let’s look at the details:
According to the National Retail Federation, shoppers spent an estimated $52.4 billion, a 7% increase over last year. That’s a record breaking number, and it’s just one of several.
For one thing, 226 million shoppers walked through the doors of shopping centers and retailers on Black Friday, and they spent a bundle. The average shopper spent $398.62 this holiday weekend, over last year’s average of $365.34.
So what were they shopping for? According to the NRF’s survey, clothing and clothing accessories took the top spot, with 51% of shoppers partaking. Given the prominence of electronics in Black Friday advertising and discounts, they were the third most popular purchase over the weekend, followed by toys and then media, including books, music, movies and games. Department stores were big winners, as were discount stores.
Will the numbers hold out over the rest of the holidays? Only time will tell. But clearly shoppers were ready to spend, and not just online. This can’t help but be a good start to the season.
And while it wasn’t without injuries, violence and one tragic death, this Black Friday was fairly well controlled. So pat yourselves on the back, everyone. We survived another Black Friday, and the holiday shopping season has officially begun.
