Optimize your BFCM Shopify store with strategies to boost sales, increase traffic, and enhance the shopping experience for maximum success this holiday season.

Get ready to revolutionize your holiday shopping game because 2024 is not just another year; it's a tech-infused retail extravaganzawith almost $10 billion in sales. In this article, we'll dive into the six crucial aspects that define this year's holiday shopping experience.

1. AI Takes the Lead: Your Shopping Sidekick

In the era of AI, shopping has transformed into a personalized adventure. Imagine having a shopping sidekick that understands you better than your favorite barista knows your coffee order. 
If you’re an entrepreneur, AI might be your best friend while it helps you save tons of time. Also now, shoppers are getting used to the help of AI. AI doesn't just recommend products; it practically reads your mind. 

As introduced early this year, Shop by Shopify brought the shopping experience to a new level. Shop AI will bring all your favored ones to the table just by asking some friendly and quite human questions.

AI algorithms analyze your past purchases, understand your style, and predict your desires. It's not just about suggesting products; it's about curating an entire shopping journey tailored just for you. Whether it's finding the perfect gift or discovering items you didn't know you needed, AI is the magic wand that adds a touch of personalization to your shopping escapades.And near half of consumers agree that AI improves online shopping experience. (according to Adobe)

But here's the kicker: AI isn't just about delighting customers; it's a sales wizard. Happy customers become repeat customers and repeat customers boost your sales. So, dear retailer, embrace your store's future – where AI meets retail brilliance, and your success story begins.

Read more: Unleash the power of AI for your SMS Marketing

2. TikTok - the rise of short-form shopping

Move over, traditional influencers; there's a new sheriff in town, and its name is TikTok.

Picture this: You're scrolling through your TikTok feed, and suddenly, you stumble upon a viral video showcasing the trendiest holiday gifts, with a good discount. The next thing you know, you're adding those must-have items to your cart.

TikTok's influence goes beyond lip-syncing and dance challenges; it's become the go-to platform for discovering and sharing shopping trends.

TikTok’s share of traffic to retail sites is expected to increase 85-90% year over year in November and December. While Facebook’s share is expected to see a 4% decline year over year during the holiday season. Instagram’s share of traffic is expected to decrease 10% year over year in November and December.

TikTok has emerged as the ultimate trendsetter and deal-spotter, revolutionizing how we discover and purchase products. So this gonna be a good choice for you if you want to expand your sales funnel next year.

If you’re running Tiktok Ads, this is a tool thathelps you tracking your ad well.

3. Mobile-first: your phone, your shopping commander

This year is set to be the first-ever mobile-dominant holiday shopping season with about $5.3 billion in sales, statedAdobe Digital Insights.

Your phone is no longer just a communication device; it's your shopping commander. In 2024, it's all about embracing the ease and convenience of mobile shopping – quick, efficient, and always at your fingertips.

Influencers and social media advertising have made it easier for mobile devices to jump to the first rank, said Vivek Pandya, Adobe Digital Insights.

Whether you're standing in line for your morning coffee or lounging on the couch, your phone is the gateway to a world of endless shopping possibilities. Swipe, click, and conquer your holiday gift list on the go.While the conversion rate on mobile devices is still lower than on desktops. Improvement in mobile experience might be the first one on the bucket list for your eCommerce website.

4. Tech-enabled shopping: beyond transactions to experiences

Welcome to the era of tech-enabled shopping bliss, where the act of buying transcends mere transactions to become a full-fledged experience. Augmented reality try-ons, virtual storefronts, and interactive shopping interfaces redefine the way we engage with products.

Imagine trying on clothes virtually before making a purchase or stepping into a virtual store where you can explore products in a 3D environment. Tech enhancements go beyond the screen, turning shopping into a sensory and immersive journey. In 2024, it's not just about acquiring goods; it's about experiencing the future of retail.

5. Start early, like October early

71% said it’s important for a brand to communicate with them about their offers ahead of BFCM. And 30% said it’s very important.

In the world of holiday shopping, procrastination is so last year. The mantra for 2024 is to start early – like October early. The early bird not only catches the worm but also secures the best deals and avoids last-minute chaos.

Due to last year's record inflation and interest rate, consumers are much more sensitive to price. And searching for good deals is the first thing they do to manage their tighter budget. 

72% of consumers said they’re more likely to shop during BFCM to get more for their money. (source Shopify). 

Starting your holiday shopping in October offers a plethora of benefits. You get a head start on the most sought-after items, avoid the mad rush of panicked shoppers, and enjoy the luxury of thoughtful decision-making. While others scramble in December, you can sip cocoa by the fireplace, knowing that your holiday shopping is already wrapped up.

Read more: Revealing top Shopify success apps of Black Friday winners

6. Discount via Marketing channels: The digital key to savings

In 2024, the path to discounts is paved with digital strategies. Marketing channels have become the secret keys to unlocking exclusive deals and promotions. Whether it's following your favorite brands on social media, subscribing to newsletters, or participating in interactive campaigns, the digital realm is your ticket to holiday savings.

According to Adobe, paid search has been trending upward this year and is expected to see 7-10% growth year over year this holiday season. The email and newsletter category has been holding steady and is expected to remain steady throughout the holiday season. In contrast, share of revenue for natural search is trending down. 

So don’t feel worried if your email is left unopened in the mailbox. Shoppers are eager to dive in their inbox for any email with title “sale” or “discount”. (or “crazy deal” will literally make them crazy)

>>> Read More: The power duo off Email & SMS Marketing

Have you made any purchases on this Black Friday? Yes, I have. Even I had yet to make a plan to buy anything, but look around for any good deal. So congrats, we made a contribution to the $10 billion online shopping of this year's Black Friday sales.

Are you searching for a tutorial demonstratinghow to add a pop-up app for Shopify storesto grab your visitors' attention? 

This guide will take you through the detailed procedure of adding a popup on Shopify from craft engaging messages, showcasing exclusive promotions, collecting valuable customer information, and improving the shopping experience.

In the previous part, we gave a shout-out to the savvy retailers who really know how to handle the Black Friday rush. But what if you're feeling a bit more adventurous? What if you're curious about trying something totally new and surprising? Well, my friend, you're in luck because this blog is just what you need. Get ready to hear some fascinating stories about people who have taken a completely different approach to Black Friday. Let's dive in and learn! 

Alright, folks, it's that time of the year again - Black Friday is here! It's like the Olympics of shopping, and everyone's excited about it. But wait, how do we ensure this Black Friday is a super-duper hit? Let's take a shortcut to success by learning from the pros! There are some awesome Shopify stores out there that have made jaw-dropping sales records. We're talking mind-blowing numbers! How did they do it? What applications do they use to ace their journey?

It's not difficult to realize how lively stores are getting and how busy merchants can be. They are setting up and running marketing campaigns with thousands of attractive offers for their customers as the biggest sales season of the year is approaching, Black Friday - Cyber Monday.  It's also the most anticipated time of the year by shoppers, they spend more, allowing merchants to push sales and clear inventory.

Suppose that while surfing the internet, you stumble onto a very attractive jumpsuit whose design is not sold anyplace in your country. The shipping fee for an international order is incredibly expensive—nearly as much as the outfit. Will you abandon the cart or continue shopping and pay for the costly shipping?

Group Order is here, an unbeatable solution that may help you do group ordering with ease, save your money, and improve your online shopping experience