Canadian holiday shoppers will spend less on gifts, more on experiences

Canadian shoppers are planning to spend less on gifts and more on experiences this holiday season, according to a JLL report. The commercial real estate service firm surveyed 1,000 consumers in Canada.

Overall, Canadian consumers plan to boost spending by 8% to an average of $1,646 this holiday season across gifts, experiences, and non-gift items such as food and decorations.

In contrast, PwC’s annual holiday retail outlook report found that Canadians are planning to spend 10% less this season.

JLL’s report says the 8% bump can be attributed to higher planned spend on experiences and non-gift items.

“Holiday errands are turning into holiday outings with shopping centres being the focal point,” said Paul Ferreira, Paul Ferreira, SVP for Retail at JLL. “With experience budgets rising and gift spending tightening, shoppers are engaging with centres more intentionally, combining shopping, dining and entertainment in each visit.”

Sixty-four percent of Canadians plan to shop in a shopping centre, while 87% expect to dine at a restaurant over the holidays, 60% plan to go to the movies, and 45% plan to travel and stay at a hotel.

Self-gifting is expected to rise by 7% from last year, with 56% of Canadian looking to treat themselves to clothing and shoes.

Experiences will account for an estimated 39% of holiday budgets, with spending in the category up 17% from last year as Canadians shift more money to entertainment and dining out.

Spending on non-gift goods such as food and decorations is expected to tick up 19% from 2024.