New Brunswick

N.B. shoppers spent $23M Dec. 23 last year, says Interac

Last minute holiday shopping? You're not alone. Interac says December 23 will be the busiest shopping day of the year for cardholders once again.

Interbank network says Dec. 23 set to be the busiest shopping day of the year again

Malls like McAllister Place in Saint John have made preparations for what's projected to be the busiest shopping day of the year.

If you're planning on hitting the stores Wednesday, be warned. 

According to Interac, December 23 is anticipated to be the busiest shopping day of the year for debit cardholders in its network.

It won't be the first time. Last year, New Brunswick debit users made 505,837 transactions and spent more than $23.5 million on that day alone, according to numbers from Interac.

Overall, Canadians made over 19 million transactions and spent close to $1 billion on December 23 last year. The top shopping categories included grocery purchases (34.4%), discount stores (15.1%), and beer, wine and liquor purchases (11.7%).

New Brunswick Interac debit users made over 500,000 transactions, and spent more than $23 million on December 23, 2014.
Malls such as McAllister Place in Saint John have been anticipating the rush. 

"We've done lots to prepare," said Tanya McCluskey-Kelly, marketing manager of McAllister Place. "Retailers' shelves are well stocked. We've extended our holiday hours."

"We certainly project it's going to be the busiest day of the year again."

Many mall-goers have even planned their last-minute holiday shopping habits.

"Absolutely every year!" said one shopper. "I guess I just love the rush of rushing around and putting myself on the spot and pressure."

On the other hand, some brave shoppers have taken their last minute tendencies with confidence and poise.

"It's not last minute," said another. "It's not the 24th."