If you run an online business or frequently shop online, you’ve likely noticed the rapid growth of e-commerce and its incredible momentum. Back in the 2000s and 2010s, Canadian retailers were slower to embrace digital sales channels compared to their international peers. However, the tide has turned. By 2024, over 36.7 million Canadians are projected to shop online, contributing to approximately 12% of the country’s total retail sales—a clear sign of the digital transformation underway.
Where’s The Shift In Importing E-Commerce Coming From?
The market is changing, and so are consumers’ expectations. More companies are offering e-commerce services, allowing customers to order online, get delivery, or pick up curbside.
Though e-commerce has grown dramatically, 67% of Canadian consumers still prefer to shop in-store. The situation is similar across the border, with 70% of retail sales in the U.S. coming from brick-and-mortar stores.
Online shoppers want more detailed product specs, easy returns, better search tools, and the ability to ask questions about products. Fast and reliable delivery also remains a big expectation for online shoppers.
In comparison, 49% of U.S. consumers shop online for convenience, 37% for product availability, and 30% for delivery speed. Meanwhile, Canadians place a stronger emphasis on online information and services, indicating room for further e-commerce innovation.
Choosing the right e-commerce customs brokerage service can help businesses get through customs easily and give their customers a great shopping experience.
E-Commerce Growth Trends in Canada
Online shopping keeps growing
It looks like Canada’s e-commerce market isn’t slowing down. eMarketer predicts that e-commerce sales in Canada will hit $64.2 billion by 2024, up from $39.9 billion in 2019. Consumers are embracing online shopping because it’s convenient and products are more easily available.
There’s a boom in mobile commerce
Canada’s shopping habits are evolving as mobile commerce grows. Statista says mobile e-commerce sales will grow to $19.8 billion by 2025. Smartphones and shopping apps make it easier for consumers to shop whenever and wherever they want.
Personalization is Everything
Personalized shopping is becoming the norm in e-commerce. Using AI and machine learning, retailers can analyze customer behaviour and preferences and offer personalized offers that make customers happy.
Sustainability as a Selling Point
As per Nielsen, 81% of Canadian consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable options. Environmental awareness is booming, so businesses that offer eco-friendly products will gain more customers and strengthen their brand.
Social commerce is here to stay
Canadians are getting into social commerce. Now that social media isn’t just for browsing, it’s a direct shopping channel that businesses should be tapping into.
Digital Marketplace Examples for Small Businesses
Mejuri: Direct-to-Consumer
Online selling is a thing of the past for Mejuri, a Toronto-based jewellery brand.
With no markups and quality pieces at affordable prices, Mejuri has built a loyal following. Their e-commerce success is largely a result of social media, influencing collaborations, and user-generated content. Their seamless shopping experiences, free returns, and personalized recommendations have made them a leading example of how small businesses can thrive online.
Blume: A Wellness Brand
E-commerce has helped Blume, a wellness and self-care brand, reach a global audience. They’ve made online shopping easy with a user-friendly, visually attractive website. Target audiences love their personalized product quizzes and transparent sustainability practices. A strong social media campaign and community-building initiatives have made Blume successful at converting casual shoppers into regulars.
The Farmer’s Dog: Niche Market Innovation
Small businesses can use data-driven personalization to thrive in e-commerce, like The Farmer’s Dog. The company offers subscription-based meal plans that cater to each dog’s specific needs. In the pet care industry, they stand out because of their easy-to-navigate website, clear value proposition, and convenience focus. This small business shows how niche products and innovative online strategies can get you noticed.
Knix: Inclusive e-commerce growth
Known for its intimate apparel and inclusivity, Knix is one of the top online brands in the industry. Live customer chats and virtual fittings create a personal touch in their “real bodies, real stories” marketing approach. Their e-commerce presence has also been boosted with augmented reality (AR) tools, which enhance the online shopping experience.
Peace Collective: Purposeful Branding
Canadian apparel company Peace Collective uses e-commerce and purpose-driven marketing. Their “Home is Canada” slogan creates a meaningful connection with customers by donating a portion of every purchase to local charities. Online store users can shop on their phones, and social media campaigns have helped them build a strong digital presence. Their success shows how small businesses can succeed if they align their brand values with customer expectations.
Conclusion: Clearit Simplifies E-Commerce Imports
Importing for your e-commerce business doesn’t have to be complicated. Clearit Canada is here to make the process smooth and stress-free. From handling customs clearance to ensuring compliance, we take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most—growing your business.