Canadians line up before break of dawn for Black Friday deals

With some shops opening as early as 6 a.m. people have already been lining up to be the first in line for the best Black Friday deals.

Some stores have been advertising their deals on their storefronts and on their online pages, with stickers for 50 per cent off at some locations, 30 per cent off at others.

The Toronto Premium outlet mall in Halton Hills told CHCH News deals have been ongoing for at least ten days, and there will be “door-buster deals” happening throughout Friday.

Retail analyst Bruce Winder says that retailers will pick and choose where to put those discounts in place and expects fewer people in stores physically, turning to online shopping instead.

“Consumers are going to do things a bit different north of the border,” Winder said. “Canadians are very comfortable now with e-commerce they have no problem shopping online. It’s a lot more convenient – a lot of people don’t like stores during the holidays.”

Winder says the GST/HST tax holiday might make people decide to wait until December to save some money.

Overall, surveys show that Canadians plan to spend more this holiday season, despite financial challenges.

Gearing up for weeks of holiday shopping deals

A retail council of Canada and Leger poll says that 48 per cent of Canadian say Black Friday is the most important shopping day, with 38 per cent waiting for peak sales. This is an increase from 34 per cent compared to last year.

A recent survey from Rakuten reveals that most Canadians, especially those under 35-years-old are gearing up for major holiday sales this year.

81 per cent of Canadians aged 18 to 35 plan to shop on Black Friday, compared to 62 per cent for Boxing Day and 57 percent for Cyber Monday.

Further, 43 per cent plan to use Black Friday shopping to buy gifts for others as well as for themselves.

Some experts suggest using prepaid cards or cash to prevent impulse buying, making a list of needs and ants to help prioritize purchase, and to avoid “buy now, pay later” options.

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