CANADIANS PLAYING SANTA, NOT SCROOGE
By Adnews Staff
Santa has returned to Canada, according to a study done by American Express and the Retail Council of Canada. Overall, Canadians expect to spend an average of $1,236 this year, $828 of which will be spent on gifts with the remaining balance going towards holiday entertaining, decorations and travel. Shoppers in the prairie provinces will be the biggest spenders this year, spending $155 above the national average, while Quebec shoppers will spend $330 less than the rest of Canada. Men will win points for generosity, spending an average of $400 more than women. They are also more likely to spend in excess of $2,500 on the holidays. When asked what the best and worst gifts were, women said that jewelry, especially rings, topped their list, while men like the idea of getting tools for Christmas. The worst gift for women is kitchenware, while men shun socks and ties. Although Canadians are spending more on gifts, they still consider themselves savvy and educated. Almost three-quarters of consumers shop around for the best price before buying a gift and 85% look for store sales. Even last minute shoppers won't compromise on price, quality selection and convenience.