The normally hectic Vancouver malls and streets were a little quieter this holiday season, and online shopping may be to blame.
The prospect of avoiding long lines, expensive parking and high postage costs for sending presents to distant loved ones had some Vancouverites turning to their computers to aid their gift-buying needs.
“I’m from Dublin, so online shopping is just easier,” said Richard Wallace. “And they take care of the delivery. Canada Post would only guarantee on-time delivery before Dec. 1.”
While Wallace did most of his shopping via the Internet, he was forced to send a few items the traditional route.
“I did send some presents in the mail and paid $500. That’s twice what they were worth.”
Keira Dimoff also shopped online this season. She likes the convenience it affords her.
“I was able to stay at home instead of running across town on my day off,” she said. “And I still got exactly what I was looking for.”
Amazon Canada spokesperson Sally Fouts said her company has been busy for weeks.
“It’s definitely always our peak time of year, but this year has been a crazy one,” she said.
