Black Friday and Cyber Monday (BFCM) 2024 wasn’t just another sales event. It was a global phenomenon, a strategic opportunity, and for many, the make-or-break moment of the year. For eCommerce sellers, it underscored one undeniable truth: you need data, agility, and tools that work as hard as you do. This year, the top 5 categories of CedCommerce collectively generated over $30M in sales, and this analysis doesn’t just tell the story—it highlights the playbook for 2025 success.
Let’s cut the fluff and dig into the numbers, the trends, and the takeaways that will set you apart in the ever-competitive eCommerce landscape.
The Big Picture: CedCommerce’s Marketplace Performance
This year’s BFCM wasn’t about small wins—it was about creating a monumental impact across platforms. CedCommerce sellers didn’t just participate; they redefined success across multiple marketplaces. Notably, TikTok made waves, this BFCM, with its unique ability to merge entertainment with commerce, driving instant purchases through engaging short-form videos and interactive shopping experiences.
Here’s a snapshot of how CedCommerce sellers conquered in just two days:
- Amazon: Leading the charge with a staggering $15M in sales, Amazon remains the undisputed powerhouse for our sellers.
- TikTok: Social commerce took center stage, with TikTok driving an impressive $10M in sales. Its blend of viral content and seamless shopping experiences cemented its role as a dominant eCommerce force this BFCM.
- Etsy: The charm of handcrafted and unique products pulled in $5.5M, showcasing the platform’s resilience and appeal.
- Walmart: A robust $5M further reinforced Walmart’s position as a major player during BFCM.
- eBay: Garnering 4.80% of the sales share, eBay highlighted the importance of marketplace diversity.
- Shein: With 4% of the sales pie, Shein continues to demonstrate the power of its fast-fashion appeal.
Takeaway: In the chessboard of eCommerce, Amazon is the queen, but diversity in platforms is your best strategy for long-term checkmate.
What Shoppers Bought: Top Categories by Sales Volume
Shoppers spoke with their wallets, and here’s what they said:
- Clothing: Leading with $9.38M, fashion remained the undisputed champion of BFCM.
- Electronics: $2.51M in sales highlights our collective obsession with tech and gadgets.
- Home & Living: $286.44K showed that shoppers didn’t just shop for gifts; they invested in comfort and style for their spaces.
- Accessories: At $252.97K, accessories proved their gifting versatility.
- Toys: With $221.82K, the holiday spirit was alive and well in the toy aisle.
Data Backed Tip: Shopify’s analysis showed that BFCM customers actively seek bundles and deals in these categories. Package your top-sellers strategically to increase your AOV (Average Order Value).
Consumer Trends: Behavioral Insights
Shopping during BFCM is no longer a desktop affair; it’s a global, mobile, and cross-border experience:
- Mobile Commerce: Over 60% of transactions came from mobile devices. If your listings aren’t optimized for mobile, you’re losing sales.
- Cross-Border Purchases: Japan ($3.15M) and India ($1.36M) emerged as major markets, signaling the value of localized strategies.
- Returns Management: Returns peaked during BFCM, but CedCommerce’s tools helped sellers minimize losses and keep customers happy.
Actionable Insight: Invest in AI-driven localization tools to optimize for international buyers. Moreover, Statista predicts cross-border eCommerce will grow 17% year-over-year.
Performance Under Pressure: Operational Metrics
The difference between good and great sellers often comes down to operations. Here’s how CedCommerce tools delivered:
- Order Processing Time: Seamless integration reduced delays, keeping customers satisfied and loyal.
- Inventory Syncing: Avoiding stockouts wasn’t just a feature; rather, it became a necessity, especially during the critical period of BFCM.
- 24/7 Support: With CedCommerce’s team on-call, sellers tackled technical issues in real time.
Did You Know?: According to McKinsey, faster processing and delivery speeds can improve customer retention by up to 30%. Efficiency isn’t optional—it’s critical.
Strategic Insights: Lessons Learned and 2025 Goals
BFCM 2024 isn’t just history; it’s a blueprint for the future:
Key Lessons:
- Mobile-first strategies are no longer a choice—they’re a survival tool.
- Cross-border selling isn’t just about shipping; it’s also about trust and localized experiences.
- Data-driven stocking, undeniably, is the antidote to stockouts and excess inventory.
CedCommerce’s Upcoming Enhancements:
- Automatic Image Optimization: Boost your click-through rates with visually appealing listings.
- Advanced Promotions Management: Make your next BFCM campaign impossible to ignore.
- Localization Features: Speak the language of your customers—literally.
Sellers’ To-Do List for 2025:
- By leveraging analytics, you can effectively identify high-performing SKUs and, in turn, capitalize on emerging trends.
- To strengthen your presence, focus on optimizing your efforts across platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and Etsy.
- As Black Friday and Cyber Monday approach, prepare early with pre-holiday promotions while ensuring robust inventory planning.
Industry Perspective: eMarketer projects eCommerce will account for nearly 24% of global retail sales by 2026. If you’re not evolving, you’re already behind.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
BFCM 2024 was a resounding success for CedCommerce and its sellers, but it’s only the beginning. With over $30M in sales and countless insights gained, we’re gearing up to make 2025 even more impactful. The game has changed—it’s faster, smarter, and more global. Are you ready?
Next Steps: Partner with CedCommerce today and make 2025 your breakthrough year. Your customers are waiting; let’s help them find you.