The busiest shopping day of the year is fast approaching it’s set to be even busier this time around. The Retail Council of Canada (RCC) predicts that a variety of factors are creating the perfect storm for an extra-crowded Black Friday on November 26th.

Now that our normal holiday get-togethers are allowed again, the RCC says that Canadians are planning to spend more on gifts this year compared to last year.

According to their annual Holiday Shopping Survey of over 2,500 people all over the country, Canadians plan to spend $792 on gifts in 2021, compared to $693 in 2020.

At the same time, supply chain issues are going to plague retail stores this holiday season, and inventory for certain items is set to tighten by late November and December, says RCC.

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So, it’s not surprising that 43% of the Canadians surveyed plan to do their shopping on Black Friday to secure their presents and get a good deal. In fact, the RCC says deals and promotions will have a major influence on when Canadians choose to shop this year.

“Consumers that plan ahead and shop early will increase their chances of finding the products and brands they want for the holiday season. And, with expected labour shortages, shopping early will allow consumers to avoid long line-ups or shipping/delivery delays,” said the CEO of RCC in a press release.

To give you a clue about the products that might be quick to sell out, you can look at the top trending items Canadians are Googling leading up to Black Friday.

Retailers have been getting ahead of the game by starting their Black Friday deals early this year, some of which have been running for weeks already.

Even so, more Canadians are planning to shop at big box stores for their gifts this year — 53% compared to 46% in 2020. And with big box stores being the busiest destinations on Black Friday, we’re already bracing ourselves for the pandemonium that’ll ensue.

Curiocity Staff

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