Ann-Marie Brooking, a proud Canadian, has strengthened her support for Canadian goods during the ongoing trade war with the United States. Initially, the focus was on sourcing products locally, leading to a shift in her shopping habits towards Canadian-made items. Economic nationalism and domestic resilience are becoming more prominent, but the rising cost of living remains a significant concern this holiday season.
A recent survey conducted by the Retail Council of Canada revealed that Canadian-made products and cost are top priorities for shoppers this year. Around 86% of respondents expressed a preference for buying locally, with 84% specifically seeking out Canadian-made goods. However, the survey also highlighted that price outweighs all other factors, especially for Atlantic Canadians.
Craig Buchanan emphasized the importance of cost in his purchasing decisions, closely followed by the origin of the products. Retailers like Crescent Gold and Diamonds are capitalizing on this trend by prominently featuring Canadian-made items. Despite sourcing products from international markets like India and Thailand, the company’s focus on Canadian goods has helped them navigate tariff challenges.
While many Canadians are choosing to prioritize Canadian products this holiday season, social researcher Heather Atcheson from the Human Development Council in Saint John noted that such choices are a privilege not everyone can afford. Limited budgets and low incomes often restrict people’s ability to be selective about their purchases. Atcheson highlighted the ongoing challenges of soaring shelter costs and emphasized the importance of self-care amidst financial constraints.
Holiday spending trends are shifting this year, with Atlantic Canadians planning to spend slightly less compared to the national average. Consumers are becoming more strategic in their shopping approach, with a focus on researching, waiting for sales, and prioritizing price above all else. The impact of inflation has led to a more cautious and intentional approach to holiday shopping.