A record 247 million people visited stores and websites between Thursday and Sunday and spent a total of $59.1 billion, 13 percent more than last year’s Thanksgiving weekend, the National Retail Federation (NRF) said today.
The average shopper spent $423 over the weekend, up from $398 last year.
Surveys suggest Americans also plan to spend big on so-called “Cyber Monday” today.
“Millions of Americans found time this Thanksgiving to make the most of retailers’ promotions and enjoy a special family holiday,” said NRF chief executive Matthew Shay.
“To keep their customers excited about holiday shopping, retailers will continue to offer attractive promotions through December, and provide strong consumer value with low prices, enhanced mobile and online offerings, and unique product assortment.”
Retailers, which make a large portion of their annual revenue during the November/December festive period, made special efforts to entice shoppers over the weekend.
Online sales also jumped sharply. According to data company Comscore.com, online sales rose by a quarter on so-called “Black Friday” to break the $1 billion mark for the first time, while online sales on Thanksgiving were up by a third.
The company also expects shoppers to spend $1.5 billion today, 20 percent more than last year.
