This Christmas season, while many Canadians express a desire to shop local, affordability is becoming a crucial factor in purchasing decisions amid economic uncertainty. A significant percentage of consumers are expected to prioritize thoughtful gifts and reduce spending in discretionary categories, as businesses hope for increased holiday sales. Despite calls for a GST holiday to support shoppers and retailers, the federal government did not renew the initiative, surprising experts who believe it could have alleviated financial pressures this year.
