Canada’s e-commerce market is a hidden treasure just waiting to be found. Online shopping is really starting to take off among Canadians due to the pandemic. This is your chance to get in and build up a customer base while there isn’t as much competition as in other markets.
Canada is one of the fastest-growing countries in the world, featuring a diverse population of age, gender, ethnic background, and more. It’s only a matter of time before it becomes one of the top markets to get into.
A special aspect of Canada is that 90% of its population lives within 100 miles of the U.S. border. It means that products will come faster to customers, which is always a positive.
There are also fewer retail chains in Canada, meaning less competition and more openness to online stores. The pandemic has really affected how Canadians shop; more people than ever are open to and continue to shop online.
The top e-commerce sites in Canada are:
There are a few things you should do before jumping into the Canadian market. Taking these few extra steps before opening your store will help your business significantly.
We always talk about how essential it is to know your customers, and going into a whole new market is no different. In fact, it’s even more important because you need to learn more about that country’s culture.
It’s important to note that Canadians focus on cost and value above all else. They don’t typically have brand loyalty like in other countries. They want a good quality product at an affordable price.
Though interestingly, Canadians won’t look for discounts as actively as customers in other countries. That means it’s on you to either figure out what a good price means or make sure you have discounts displayed properly so that people won’t have to look for them.
Other important factors of online shopping for Canadian customers are easy shopping, good customer service, and an easy return policy. They also like to shop from Canadian stores but aren’t against shopping internationally, especially if it’s the U.S.
Once you have a Canadian customer’s loyalty, you will have a consistent customer base. Most Canadian online shoppers will return to a store that they had a good experience with.
It’s crucial to know what’s popular among Canadians. Knowing what kind of products they like and the most popular niches will make getting into the market so much easier for you.
Popular products include:
Popular Niches Include:
While social media is an important part of advertising in most countries, it’s especially important in Canada. Specifically how brands interact with people on social media.
You should use a mix of targeted and organic strategies. It will increase your customer base, make people more aware of your brand, and ensure customer happiness. You need to make sure you’re consistent with posts and respond to people in a timely manner.
46% of shoppers look at a retailer’s website after seeing an ad or interaction on a social media platform.
Product Description
This travel tumbler is not only great at keeping drinks warm, but it’s also machine washable! Ditch one-use beverage containers and save the planet one drink at a time!
CTAs for Major Holidays
Victoria Day
Celebrate Victoria Day and the start of the summer with our new collection!
Canada Day
Show off your Canadian pride with our Canada-themed collection!
Christmas
Only # days until Christmas! Do you have all your gifts ready?
Boxing Day
Big sales are happening on Boxing Day! Check out what you could save!
If you want to stay current with what’s happening in Canada, you should check social media, The Globe and Mail, and The Toronto Star.