Black Friday under COVID-19 a tamer affair with most shoppers heading online

Black Friday, the shopping bonanza known for big bargains and large crowds, has arrived.

Canadian retailers are banking on these sales to bolster their bottom line.

But things appear to be tamer this year with rising COVID-19 cases and weeks of staggered deals.

The majority of this year’s Black Friday purchases are expected to be made online.

But retail analysts say some bargain hunters are still expected to shop in brick-and-mortar stores in the hopes of snagging a door-buster deal.

Public health officials say those going out shopping for Black Friday should take precautions, including wearing a mask, maintaining physical distancing and following washing or sanitizing hands.