Amazon reported yesterday that its Black Friday Week and Cyber Monday holiday shopping event—from November 21 through December 2—was its biggest ever compared to the same 12-day period ending on Cyber Monday in prior years.
While Amazon did not disclose specific figures, industry analysts estimate that the retailer processed billions in sales over the five-day shopping period; it did say it had record sales and a record number of items sold.
According to Amazon, sales surpassed any previous Black Friday and Cyber Monday in the company’s history because of a combination of deals, an expanding product range, and an efficient supply chain that ensured timely deliveries even for last-minute shoppers.
The retailer also launched exclusive offers for Prime members, further incentivizing consumers to capitalize on their subscriptions.
“We know how much our customers appreciate saving money, and our customers saved billions with us during this year’s holiday shopping event,” said Doug Herrington, CEO of Worldwide Amazon Stores. “And we have many more fun and exciting ways for them to continue to save this holiday season. Whether they’re checking off their holiday lists, finding new deals on toys, fashion, electronics, homewares, and other products dropping every day between now and December 24, turning to Amazon for Same-Day Delivery on everyday essentials to help celebrate the holidays, or discovering ultra-low priced stocking stuffers in Amazon Haul, we want to thank our customers for choosing Amazon during this special time of year. I also want to thank our employees, vendors, and selling partners for delivering an outstanding experience time after time.”
A new independent study by ecommerce analytics firm Profitero found that Amazon had the lowest online prices entering the holiday season, on average 14% lower, compared to other leading retailers in the U.S. for the eighth year in a row.