14 BFCM Trends 2025 That’ll Decide Who Wins

Black Friday, Cyber Monday have grown into the biggest shopping events of the year. In 2024, online sales during the BFCM weekend reached up to 74.4 billion dollars worldwide (Black Friday Statistics, 2025), showing how massive the opportunity has become. With 2025 expected to be even bigger, every brand is looking for an edge.

But success this year will not come from discounts alone. Shoppers want more value, smoother experiences, and exciting campaigns that stand out in a super crowded market. The rules are changing, and what worked before may not be enough now.

In this blog, we'll look at 14 important BFCM trends for 2025 that will help us figure out who wins. These tips will help you a lot if you plan ahead and get your store ready for a successful BFCM holiday season. They include using AI better and giving customers better experiences.

BFCM 2025: How consumer behavior & trends are shifting

(Source: Posstack, 2025)

People are becoming more thoughtful and focused on getting good deals for Black Friday Cyber Monday (BFCM) 2025. Personalization and AI are important, well, yes… but trust and shared values are even more important. People want deals that make sense to them and experiences that are unique to them, not just random discounts.

Consumer Behavior Trends

• Value-Driven Shopping: Shoppers research ahead of time and look for clear pricing and long-term value instead of impulse buys.
• Early Holiday Shopping: Many started buying gifts as early as July 2025, often due to rising costs and tariffs.
• AI Use: Almost half of consumers (58%) believe AI makes shopping easier and trust its recommendations as much as human ones.
• Personalization: Customers want tailored suggestions, relevant products, and proactive support.
• Sustainability & Ethics: Brands that show care for the environment and act responsibly earn stronger loyalty.
• Local Preference: More people, especially younger buyers, want to support local products and businesses.
• Health & Wellness: Shoppers are prioritizing healthier choices like fresh food and cutting back on red meat.

Shifting BFCM Landscape

• Longer Shopping Season: BFCM now lasts up to ten days, or "Cyber Ten," so brands need to plan for longer periods of time.
• AI Personalization: AI enables smarter recommendations and round-the-clock support.
• Community & Connection: Brands that show empathy and support their communities build stronger, lasting trust.
• Omnichannel Experience: Shoppers expect smooth, connected experiences across online and offline channels.

As you can see, even the smartest BFCM strategies won’t mean much if you don’t have a store to put them into action. The good news? You don’t need to be a tech expert to launch one. Shopify gives you everything: simple drag-and-drop design, built-in tools, and flexibility to run with the trends that matter most this Black Friday.

In general, BFCM 2025 is being shaped by smarter shoppers who want trust, value, and personalization at every turn. Now, let's take a closer look at the trends that are affecting consumer behavior, marketing, and technology, as well as payments, data, and operations.

The 14 BFCM Trends 2025 That’ll Decide Who Wins

For BFCM trends 2025, success hinges on early October shopping, mobile-first buying, and meaningful discounts. Gen Z drives sustainability, while TikTok Shop and scarcity tactics boost sales. AI personalization, UGC, and loyalty programs elevate marketing, and trust comes from BNPL, transparent shipping, zero-party data, and standout post-purchase experiences.

Consumer Behavior Shifts

Trend #1: Shoppers are starting BFCM in October

In 2025, planning earlier than ever, many shoppers are. A recent survey found 59% will start their holiday shopping before BFCM even begins (Attentive, 2025). This means customers are spreading out their spending across October and November instead of waiting for one big weekend. For stores, the earlier rush changes how discounts, ads, and inventory should be planned.

Why shoppers are buying early:

• Fear of higher prices: Rising costs and tariff concerns push customers to lock in deals before they go up.
• More time to look at: Shoppers like having more time to do research, read reviews, and find the best deals.
• Avoiding stress: People want to skip the last-minute rush and make sure gifts arrive on time.

It's becoming normal to start early, and businesses that plan ahead will do best.

Trend #2: Generic discounts? Consumers don’t care anymore.

(Source: Impresee)

People are not as impressed by the same old "20% off everything" deals anymore. They want deals that are important to them, not just cheap ones. Yes, better tools and more options are what they want. And that’s why, simple discounts might get clicks, but we promise, they don't always keep customers coming back or make them loyal.

Why people are moving on from generic discounts:

• People want deals on things they actually need or are interested in, not random price drops.
• More rewarding than just percentage cuts: bundles, free shipping, and exclusive gifts.
• Consumers are more likely to buy from those brands that seem real and share their values, like supporting the community or being environmentally friendly.

For brands, this clear shift is: focus less on blanket discounts, more on creating personalized, value-driven offers that truly connect with the audience you must.

Trend #3: 70% of BFCM sales will be mobile

Shopping on phones is no longer a backup option; it is the main way people buy during BFCM. More than 70% of all BFCM traffic will come from a mobile device (Conversion Wax, 2025), which means brands that are not mobile-ready risk losing the majority of their sales.

Why mobile rules BFCM now:

• Convenience first: People can shop and buy right away while they are on the bus, at home, or even waiting in line.
• Faster checkout: Mobile wallets and one-click payments make it easy to buy things, which means fewer people leave their carts.
• Social influence: A lot of people find out about products on TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook, and they often buy them right there.

The takeaway is simple: if your store is not optimized for mobile, you could miss out on most of your potential sales this BFCM.

Trend #4: The Gen Z effect, sustainability is no longer optional

(Source: Positive+)

Gen Z is a very important group of shoppers, and they are changing how brands do Black Friday and Cyber Monday. People in this generation really care about the history of the things they buy, the environment, and doing the right thing. They want to know that the stores they buy from aren't just trying to make money.

Why sustainability matters more than ever:

• Purchase decisions: Only buy from brands showing eco-friendly packaging, fair labor, and responsible sourcing—many Gen Z shoppers will.
• Brand trust: Companies that highlight transparency and community impact can build stronger loyalty with younger buyers.
• Social voice: Gen Z amplifies what they like or dislike on TikTok and Instagram, meaning sustainable brands often get free advocacy.

For brands, proving sustainability is no longer optional during BFCM. It is a must if you want Gen Z to shop with you.

Trend #5: TikTok Shop will be a real BFCM sales channel

In 2021, TikTok Shops made about $1 billion in gross merchandise value (GMV). By 2024, that number had grown to an amazing $33 billion (x33 times within just 3 years). This makes it one of the online stores that is growing the fastest (Statista, 2024). This rise shows that social shopping is now a big part of the BFCM scene.

Shoppers, especially younger generations, are turning to TikTok to discover, review, and buy products without ever leaving the app. Brands can get people's attention and get them to buy things on impulse more easily because there is both shopping and entertainment.

Why TikTok Shop matters for BFCM 2025:

• Shoppers trust authentic creator content more than polished ads.
• In-app checkout makes the buying process seamless.
• Viral trends can turn small brands into overnight BFCM winners.

Brands that do not use TikTok this holiday season might miss out on a big sales channel.

Trend #6: Inventory drops will drive scarcity marketing

Shoppers are paying closer attention to products that feel rare or limited. Instead of endless discounts, many brands are now creating buzz with timed inventory drops. The idea is simple: release a small batch of products, promote the urgency, and let scarcity build the hype.

This approach makes shopping more exciting, especially during BFCM when buyers are already in a deal-hunting mood. People do not want to miss out, so limited stock pushes them to act faster. For smaller brands, it is also a smart way to control inventory while boosting sales.

Why scarcity marketing works for BFCM:

• Limited drops create urgency and push faster purchases.
• Scarcity makes products feel more valuable and desirable.
• Drops can build anticipation and encourage repeat visits.

For BFCM 2025, brands using smart inventory drops may find themselves with higher engagement and faster conversions than those relying only on discounts.

Marketing & Tech trends

Trend #7: AI-powered brands will out-sell everyone else

(Source: Sendbird)

All brands getting ready for BFCM have to follow new rules because of AI. AI helps businesses figure out what customers want before they even click by using things like predictive analytics and product recommendations. In the end, shopping is faster, smarter, and more suited to your needs.

Why AI-driven brands stay ahead:

• AI remains ahead: Customized shopping: AI systems make product recommendations based on past browsing activity, converting infrequent visitors into customers.
• Smarter campaigns: AI can predict the best time to send emails or launch ads, boosting conversion rates.
• Efficiency: From chatbots to inventory planning, AI reduces costs while improving customer experience.

A 2024 survey by Statista showed 46 percent of shoppers were fully comfortable with brands using AI, which means there is still plenty of room for growth and adoption.

Trend #8: UX and speed are non-negotiable

(Source: EComposer’s template)

Even though 2025 has arrived, non-customers still anticipate having to wait for a sluggish or unclear website. A bad shopping experience can cost you sales, even if you have the greatest deals and merchandise. Clear navigation, quick-loading pages, and easy checkout processes are now necessities rather than extras.

Why UX and speed matter most:

• First impressions count: A page that loads in seconds builds trust and keeps visitors engaged.
• Checkout simplicity: Long or confusing checkout steps often lead to abandoned carts, especially on mobile.
• Smooth experience everywhere: Whether on desktop, tablet, or mobile, shoppers expect consistency without glitches.

Brands that invest in speed optimization and user-friendly design will keep customers happy and buying. Those who overlook it risk losing sales to competitors with smoother, faster experiences.

Also, if you’re preparing for BFCM, the EComposer Shopify page builder is a smart way to get your store ready fast. No coding needed, just drag, drop, and launch in minutes. You can save time and get better results with ready-made templates, AI-powered layouts, and features like flash sale blocks, bundles, and countdown timers.

Try EComposer for FREE!

Trend #9: UGC Is the new Black Friday Billboard

People now trust what other people say more than well-made ads for brands. User-generated content (UGC) is content that people make themselves, like customer reviews, unboxing videos, and social media posts. UGC has become a big sales driver during BFCM. It seems more real, relatable, and convincing than regular campaigns.

Why UGC matters during BFCM:

• Trust is built by real voices: Real-life pictures and honest reviews of products help customers feel more sure about their purchases.
• Social proof spreads quickly: When buyers share on TikTok or Instagram, it can create viral moments that brands cannot buy with ads.
• Low-cost, high impact: Encouraging customers to post saves brands from spending heavily on traditional ad spaces while still boosting visibility.

This BFCM, the strongest ads may come from your customers. Brands that make it easy for shoppers to share their stories will stand out and convert more sales.

Trend #10: Subscriptions & loyalty will outlast Flash Sales

The race for the steepest discount is losing its edge. Shoppers are no longer impressed by a 24-hour deal that disappears as quickly as it came. Instead, they are looking for a sense of belonging and ongoing value. That is where subscriptions and loyalty programs take the lead.

Why this matters:

• From one-off to long-term: BFCM 2024 showed a 119% jump in new loyalty members compared to a regular weekend (LoyaltyLion, 2024), proving people prefer rewards that stick.
• Convenience first: Subscriptions simplify shopping by auto-replenishing essentials or giving access to exclusive perks.
• Community factor: Loyalty programs give consumers a sense of belonging rather than just another transaction.

It's clear that flash sales don't last long, but loyalty and subscriptions make connections that last long after BFCM.

Payments, Data & Operations trends

Trend #11: BNPL is quietly becoming the BFCM conversion hack

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) has gone from a nice-to-have payment option to a quiet driver of BFCM sales. During last year’s BFCM weekend, shoppers spent over $686.3 million through BNPL, an 8.8% jump from the year before (Shopify, 2025). Even more telling, nearly one in three people who use BNPL say they are more likely to spend on non-essential items if it is available.

Why shoppers lean into it:

• It makes splurges feel manageable, spreading the cost out.
• It reduces that checkout guilt and keeps the excitement alive
• It allows smaller brands to deliver the same smooth experience as retail giants.

BNPL is not replacing traditional payments, but it is quickly becoming the hidden boost that can turn browsers into buyers during peak shopping days.

Trend #12: Zero-party data wins BFCM discounts

Shoppers want a clear exchange of value. Zero-party data is how to deliver the exact value, which is the information customers choose to share directly with brands, and is becoming the key to unlocking BFCM discounts. When they participate in a survey, take a quick quiz, or sign up for early access, they anticipate receiving something of value, such as customized deals or special packages that truly align with their interests.

Why it matters for BFCM success:

• Better targeting: Brands can send discounts that seem like they are for you, not just random ones.
• Stronger trust: Customers are more likely to share when they know how their information will be used.
• Personal touches: Imagine a shopper who says they love running getting a special deal on sneakers instead of kitchenware.

The takeaway: data is no longer about tracking, it is about a fair exchange that makes shopping feel personal.

Trend #13: Transparent pricing and shipping wins trust

During BFCM, shoppers move fast, but they also look closely at the details. Hidden fees, unclear shipping times, or surprise charges at checkout are deal-breakers. Customers want to know upfront what they will pay and when their order will arrive. In fact, clear pricing and honest delivery information often matter as much as the discount itself.

Why it matters for BFCM success:

• Fewer abandoned carts: Shoppers are less likely to leave when costs are clear from the start.
• Customer confidence: Being upfront about shipping times builds trust, especially during the holiday rush.
• Stronger loyalty: Brands that keep promises on price and delivery stand out and earn repeat buyers.

The conclusion is that trust is a valuable asset, and that honest pricing combined with dependable shipping can make the difference between a repeat customer and a one-time buyer.

Trend #14: Post-purchase experience is the new battlefield

During BFCM, it's great to make a sale, but the real competition starts when you try to keep that customer after the sale. People do not think of checkout as the end of their shopping trip anymore. It's just the start of their time with your brand.

Here’s the problem: eMarketer shows 83% of consumers believe the post-purchase journey could be better, yet only 18% of retail leaders feel the same. This mismatch explains why so many brands lose repeat business.

What makes the difference after checkout:

• Clear delivery updates and accurate tracking reduce anxiety.
• Hassle-free returns make customers more likely to buy again
• Small touches, like thank-you emails or exclusive offers, turn buyers into fans

In 2025, the brands that treat the post-purchase phase as a chance to build relationships, not just close orders, will win the loyalty battle long after BFCM ends.

Others also read

• Success BFCM case studies to learn from
• BFCM Checklist: A Practical Guide to Win Big
• 15 BFCM Marketing Ideas to Skyrocket Your Revenue 

How to Prepare for BFCM 2025 (Action Plan)

To win this BFCM, you need to have a clear plan. That means checking your website to make sure it works well, making good offers, setting up marketing, getting your inventory ready, giving great customer service, and keeping customers coming back even after the event is over.

Phase 1: Plan & Analyze (Now – August 2025)

• Check past results: Look at what worked and what failed in previous BFCM events.
• Pick products smartly: Use data to spot bestsellers, plan stock, and forecast demand.
• Make wise product choices: Utilize data to predict demand, plan stock, and identify best-sellers.
• Check your website: Make sure the checkout process is easy, quick, and responsive to mobile devices.
• Make a plan for your offers: Make enticing offers and a transparent sales schedule that includes teasers.
• Inventory and shipping: To prevent delays, stock up and work with fulfillment teams.

Phase 2: Prep Website & Campaigns (August – October 2025)

• Optimize tech: Boost site speed, checkout flow, and add features like countdown timers.
• Set up marketing: Prepare email and SMS campaigns early, segment audiences, and build hype.
• Update visuals: Refresh homepage and design a BFCM landing page.
• Customer service: To ensure prompt responses, train your staff or implement chatbots.
• Have a fallback strategy: Prepare for unexpected problems or technical snags.

Phase 3: Launch & Run (October – November 2025)

• Start early: Start your promotions weeks before BFCM to get early shoppers and spread out traffic.
• Reward loyalty: Give loyal customers early access to deals as a reward.
• Checks at the last minute: Check out sales channels, automations, and discount codes.
• Keep an eye on and change: Look at the data and change your strategy in real time.

Phase 4: After BFCM (December 2025 and later)

• Build loyalty: Turn seasonal buyers into regulars with follow-up campaigns.
• Review results: Analyze performance and use insights to improve next year.

At the end of the day, your BFCM plan should feel like it was designed with your customer’s experience in mind. If you do that, the trends you choose to follow will naturally fall into place.

Final Words

The brands that think like their customers will win at BFCM 2025, despite the fact that it will be more competitive than ever. Every trend, from going early to providing genuine value, emphasizing mobile, artificial intelligence, trust, and after-sales care, suggests that consumers desire dependable and personalized experiences. You will not only win this season but also retain those customers long after the sales are over if you prepare with the customer in mind.

FAQs

1. What are the biggest social media trends in 2025?

User-generated content, TikTok Shops, and short videos will be the most popular. Community-driven posts are more effective than ever because consumers prefer genuine, personal content over well-produced advertisements.

2. What will be the customer service trends in 2025?

Customers want quick answers, help that is tailored to their needs, and chat experiences that go smoothly. AI-powered assistants, 24/7 availability, and proactive communication are becoming the norm. Trust and empathy are what keep customers coming back.

3. How can a small business compete with big retailers in BFCM 2025?

Small businesses do well when they focus on speed, personal touches, and niche value. Offering bundles, loyalty rewards, and real stories can help you stand out from bigger competitors and build trust.