Last-minute rush anticipated as businesses count down the days until Christmas

The final countdown to Christmas is on as Lethbridge shoppers look to cross those last items off their lists.

The final countdown to Christmas is on as shoppers look to cross those last items off their lists.

Lethbridge businesses are preparing for a late rush of customers before Thursday.

But it’s been a hectic shopping season already.

Several are reporting they’ll do better this year than last.

It follows a trend of recovery since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s just gotten better and better every year, and this year is no exception,” said Hunter Heggie, King of Trade owner.

“People are looking for deals.

“Of course, they’re being a little bit tight with their money, but once they find what they want, they’re eager to buy it.”

The next two days promise to be some of the busiest retail businesses will see all year.

“It’s definitely a great challenge for us,” said Penny Warris, Analog Books co-owner.

“We’ve seen a swell of shopping locally this year.

“We’ve tried to keep up with that and anticipate what people would want.”

Many shoppers will likely opt for big box stores and chains for their last-minute shopping.

Small-business owners are urging consumers to consider shopping local to keep their dollars in the community.

“We sure appreciate it when people shop local,” said Heggie.

“Our company is 100 per cent local, and there are lots of stores like that around.

“These are your neighbours, these are the guys buying hockey jerseys for the teams (and) these are the people in our community.”

The Downtown Lethbridge Business Revitalization Zone (BRZ) is optimistic shoppers will continue to visit even after the holidays.

“The more great experiences people have downtown (and) the more they tell their friends, the better off we all are, and the more people understand and live the experience of coming downtown and really having a fabulous time down here,” said Sarah Amies, Downtown Lethbridge BRZ executive director.