The History of Cyber Monday

A Brief History of Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday, the Monday after Thanksgiving, debuted in 2005. The term was coined by Ellen Davis and the National Retail Federation (NRF) to describe a surge in online shopping that retailers noticed on this specific day. The rise of e-commerce and increased internet accessibility made it a perfect counterpart to Black Friday, which mainly focused on in-store shopping.

The concept aimed to get people to shop online while they were back at work, using their high-speed internet (which was less common at home in the mid-2000s). Over time, as home internet and mobile devices improved, Cyber Monday grew into a global phenomenon.

Fun Facts About Cyber Monday

1. Biggest Online Shopping Day

Cyber Monday has consistently set records as one of the largest online shopping days of the year. In 2022, U.S. shoppers spent a whopping $11.3 billion online.

2. Global Reach

While it started in the U.S., Cyber Monday is now celebrated in many countries, including Canada, the U.K., Australia, and parts of Asia and Europe.

3. Mobile Shopping Boom

In recent years, mobile devices have accounted for a significant portion of Cyber Monday sales, making it easier for people to shop from anywhere. You can Shop Jane’s store from your smart phone too!

4. Deals Beyond Tech

While initially focused on electronics and tech products, Cyber Monday now offers deals across categories, including fashion, home goods, travel, and even groceries.

5. A Week of Deals

Retailers have extended Cyber Monday deals into “Cyber Week,” keeping the shopping frenzy alive for several days.

6. Sustainability Concerns

The rise of Cyber Monday has sparked conversations about sustainability, with some consumers opting for digital gift cards or eco-friendly products to reduce packaging waste.

7. Workplace Shopping

A 2019 study found that about 25% of Americans admitted to shopping online at work on Cyber Monday—a “productive” way to spend the day!

8. Digital Evolution

Technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have made Cyber Monday shopping more immersive, allowing customers to “try before they buy.”

Cyber Monday has become more than just a shopping day—it’s a cultural event marking the shift toward e-commerce and digital innovation.

Jane will be joining the Sewing Machines Plus nation to host a massive Cyber Monday sales event! Get ready to get your shopping in high gear!  Happy Cyber Monday!