Mastercard SpendingPulse said sales rose 2.5% on Black Friday 2023, excluding automotive and not adjusted for inflation. 

“Consumers are navigating the holiday season well and taking advantage of holiday promotions, giving them ample choice as they hunt for gifts for everyone on their list,” said Steve Sadove, senior advisor for Mastercard and former CEO and chairman of Saks Incorporated. “Consumers are also shopping smarter, using all of their tools – from searching across channels to cross checking on apps and websites – to maximize value while they spend time with friends and family.”

While furniture, furnishings and department store sales continued to lag other sectors compared to 2022, jewelry and apparel were popular purchases. 

In-store sales increased +1.1% year over year. E-commerce sales increased 8.5% year over year as consumers shopped deals online, avoiding crowds. Further, a number of sporting events aired on Friday, making online shopping an appealing option for game day viewers to shop wherever they might be watching. 

Retailers once again started their Black Friday sales early in the month, giving consumers ample time to search for promotions and score the best deals.

In addition to shopping, consumers gathered with friends and families for shared meals to celebrate the holidays with the restaurant sector continuing its growth streak.