Local retailers are competing with online shopping this holiday season.
Aimee Peake, owner of Bison Books, in downtown Winnipeg said customers used to scoring a deal online are looking for the same prices in store.
“Sometimes I have customers coming up and saying, I have this book here and I just scanned it and Amazon has it for three dollars less, can you match the price?”
Peake said she has noticed an increase in shoppers finding what they want in-person then later buying online. The store provides the hands-on experience, often spending valuable time helping shoppers, but not getting the sale.
According to Visa, Canadians will spend more online this holiday season than ever before. Already this year, Canada Post has shipped a record number of packages.
“With these volumes coming in, it’s very clear where it’s being driven,” said Canada Post spokesperson John Caines. “A lot of people are just going to their computer and shopping and we’re the beneficiary of that.”
The Manitoba Chamber of Commerce said retail continues to be a strong sector in Manitoba as local stores are adapting by also selling online.
