Get ready, Amazon sellers! Black Friday and Cyber Monday (BFCM) are just around the corner. It’s time to refine your sales strategies and prepare for the magnificent shopping event of the year. These two shopping events aren’t just about quick sales. These events are about attracting new customers and setting the stage for a successful holiday season. During these events, customers are eagerly waiting to find the best deals, and your products should be in the spotlight. In this article, we will dive into how you can strategically plan to turn these events into your biggest sales days of the year.
In this article, we will cover:
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday in 2024
- The Importance of BFCM for Amazon Sellers
- Why do you need a plan for BFCM
- Challenges during BFCM
- What to Sell on Black Friday and Cyber Monday
- Eligibility for Black Friday and Cyber Monday
- Selling Strategies for Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday and Cyber Monday in 2024
Every year, Black Friday and Cyber Monday stand out as major shopping events. These events offer immense opportunities for Amazon sellers to boost profits. Here’s a quick overview of these events:
In 2024, Black Friday will be held on November 24. It is the day after Thanksgiving. It’s a great time for customers to find deals on things like gadgets, clothes, and more. On the other hand, Cyber Monday in 2024 will be held on December 2nd. It is the following Monday after Black Friday.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday (BFCM) are prime shopping events when consumers hunt for the best deals on a variety of products, and Amazon is the most popular place to shop. Both of these days are known for their huge discounts on a wide range of products, from electronics and clothing to home goods.
The Importance of BFCM for Amazon Sellers
Black Friday and Cyber Monday (BFCM) are significant events on the calendar for Amazon sellers. These events mark the beginning of the holiday shopping season when consumers are hunting for the best deals and discounts. For Amazon sellers, BFCM is more than just an opportunity to boost sales. It is a critical period that can significantly impact annual revenue.
Amazon experiences a spike in customer traffic during BFCM. That creates a prime opportunity for sellers to increase their visibility and reach a broader audience. With the help of optimized listings, compelling discounts, and Amazon’s advertising tools, sellers can take advantage of growing consumer interest by standing out in a crowded market.
Moreover, BFCM is an excellent time for sellers to clear out old inventory. Success during BFCM can lead to a strong start for the holiday season, setting the tone for the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Why Do You Need a Plan for BFCM
Planning for Black Friday and Cyber Monday is a smart move for Amazon sellers, and here’s why:
Sales Surge
BFCM is one of the busiest shopping times of the year. In 2023, Amazon sellers generated over $9.8 billion during these days. These events are a massive opportunity for a significant sales boost.
New Customers
During these events, many new customers are hunting for deals, and many of them head to Amazon. It’s a perfect chance to attract new shoppers who might not have found you otherwise.
More Profits
With more sales and new customers, you can also boost your profits. Offering discounts, coupons, and special deals can help drive even more sales and make the most of them.
By planning for BFCM, Amazon sellers can not only achieve short-term success but also set the foundation for long-term growth and customer loyalty.
Challenges During BFCM
During BFCM, the rush for popular items can be intense. Amazon sellers need to make sure they have enough inventory to meet the demand. It can be tricky, especially if you are selling hot products. You can look into last year’s demand figures and use inventory management tools to make a forecast.
The shipping challenge is another difficulty during this time. Amazon specifically asks FBA sellers to order inventory in advance and ensure it arrives at the fulfillment centers by the end of October due to the peak holiday shipping season.
What to Sell on Black Friday and Cyber Monday
When deciding what to sell on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it’s crucial to consider several factors that can significantly impact your success. Here’s a breakdown:
During the BFCM period, select products that are in high demand by consumers. Electronics, toys, clothing and accessories, home goods, and gift cards are popular among customers.
Sellers should stay updated on current trends and consumer interests to identify products that are likely to attract attention during the BFCM.
At the same time, they should select products that offer a good balance between cost and selling price. If possible, buy in bulk to reduce costs and increase profit margins during the sales period.
Sellers can also choose products that align with holiday gifting trends and needs. Seasonally relevant items are more likely to attract buyers during BFCM. They can consider creating product bundles that appeal to holiday shoppers looking for convenient gift options.
Eligible Products for Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Certain products are not eligible in price on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Here’s a checklist of criteria to ensure your products are eligible for these high-traffic events:
1. Seller and Product Ratings
As a professional seller, you must maintain at least a 3.5-star rating to qualify for BFCM promotions. The product should have a minimum rating of 3.5 stars or no rating at all. This ensures that customers have confidence in the quality of what you’re offering.
2. Product Variations
Products with lots of variations, such as different sizes or colors, are eligible and can appeal to a broader audience. These options allow customers to find exactly what they’re looking for, increasing the chances of a sale.
3. Prime Shipping
To participate in BFCM, your products must be eligible for Prime shipping across all regions. Fast and free shipping is a key selling point during these events, and it’s something shoppers expect.
4. Product Condition
Only items in new condition are eligible for BFCM deals. Since most consumers at these events are looking for brand-new products, used, refurbished, or open-box items do not qualify.
5. Restricted or Offensive Content
Products that are restricted, offensive, or violate Amazon’s content guidelines are not eligible. It’s important to review Amazon’s policies to ensure your listings comply with all regulations.
By ensuring your products meet these eligibility criteria, you’ll be well-prepared to participate in Black Friday and Cyber Monday, maximizing your chances of success during these crucial sales events.
Selling Strategies for Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday and Cyber Monday give you exceptional opportunities to generate a huge amount of money. The following strategy would be ideal for any seller to utilize these significant events:
- Start your planning 7 to 9 weeks in advance to make the most of it. That’ll give you plenty of time to stock up on inventory and make sure you can meet the rush.
- Remember that by November 2, 2024, your inventory must arrive at Amazon’s fulfillment centers.
- If you want to offer BFCM deals, you’ll need to get them approved by Amazon beforehand. Do not forget that the deadline for submitting your deals is September 6, 2024. Amazon offers different types of deals, like 7-day deals and Prime Exclusive Discounts, so there are plenty of options to get your products in front of eager shoppers.
- To attract holiday shoppers, make sure your product listings are well-optimized for better visibility.
- Sometimes many sellers don’t want to give a lot of discounts because of low profitability. So. You can increase your price a bit and then sell it at a discounted price. However, there are better practices than this. You always need to ensure you are selling at a competitive price. But the reason I suggest this is to take advantage of the selling event because when you are running deals or discounts, there is a great chance that you will sell more.
- You also need to let your customers know about the deals you are running, so you need to promote them early. Start promoting a minimum of two weeks before the events. You can promote your deals through social media, email marketing, and Amazon’s advertising platform.
Conclusion
To sum up, as the holiday shopping season approaches, Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer a golden opportunity for Amazon sellers to make a significant impact. With careful planning and a strategic approach, you can turn these bustling days into a major sales success. By optimizing your listings, managing your inventory smartly, and promoting your deals effectively, you’ll not only attract more shoppers but also boost your profits and set a strong foundation for the rest of the holiday season.
Remember, while BFCM is a critical moment, it’s also a chance to showcase your brand’s strengths and engage with new customers. So, gear up, start planning early, and make the most of this festive sales extravaganza. After all, it’s not just about surviving the holiday rush—it’s about thriving in it! Here’s to a successful BFCM and a joyful holiday season ahead!
Need help with your BFCM strategy or have questions about optimizing your Amazon presence? Reach out to us at info@ecomclips.com. We’re here to help you make the most of the holiday season and beyond.
