Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday is the first Monday after Thanksgiving in the United States, dedicated specifically to online shopping deals and e-commerce promotions. Originally created by the National Retail Federation in 2005, this digital shopping event was designed to encourage consumers to shop online, capitalizing on the growing popularity of internet commerce. Cyber Monday has since become one of the largest online shopping days of the year, with retailers offering substantial discounts and exclusive online deals.

The significance of Cyber Monday lies in its emphasis on digital commerce, distinguishing it from Black Friday’s traditional focus on in-store shopping. E-commerce businesses leverage this day to drive massive traffic to their websites, often preparing months in advance with strategic pricing, inventory planning, and targeted marketing campaigns. The event has evolved to include not only discounts, but also online-only product releases, early access for loyal customers, and advanced personalization strategies to maximize conversion rates.

Cyber Monday 2025 falls on Monday, December 1st. It always takes place on the Monday immediately following Thanksgiving in the United States, which is observed on the fourth Thursday of November. This timing marks the start of the peak online holiday shopping season.

Cyber Monday was first coined in 2005 by the National Retail Federation (NRF) after they observed a surge in online sales on the Monday after Thanksgiving. At the time, many consumers returned to work and used faster internet connections to shop online—prompting retailers to launch special digital-only promotions. What began as a marketing term quickly turned into a major online sales event.

The key difference lies in the shopping channel and product focus.

• Black Friday traditionally centers on in-store promotions and big-ticket items like TVs and appliances, although it now includes online deals too.
• Cyber Monday, by contrast, is purely an online retail event, often featuring tech products, fashion, and smaller electronics. It also appeals more to shoppers looking for last-minute deals from the comfort of home.

Retailers begin preparations months in advance, focusing on website performance, digital marketing, and inventory planning. Strategies may include:

• Creating exclusive online promotions
• Launching email and social media campaigns
• Personalizing offers based on browsing history or loyalty data
• Ensuring their e-commerce platforms can handle traffic spikes
• Retailers also often use A/B testing to optimize pricing and user experience ahead of the big day.