Canadian holiday shopping trends, U.S. tariffs expand, and AI in logistics set to grow

Ian Sinclair

Ian Sinclair

EVP, Commercial Solutions

ISinclair@nls.ca

National Logistics Services
150 Courtneypark Drive West
Mississauga, Ontario

In turbulent economic times, a true logistics partner can scale up, optimize and help your fast-moving enterprise adapt and thrive. 

Would you like to talk
to a logistics expert?

Related Posts

Canadian shoppers are seeking value and personalized AI-driven deals amid tighter holiday budgets. The U.S. has raised tariffs up to 35% on some Canadian goods outside CUSMA. The generative AI logistics market is projected to soar to $13.62 billion by 2032, fuelled by predictive tools. Hudson’s Bay has rebranded to Rupert Legacy after a $30 million brand sale to Canadian Tire. Leading retail and beauty brands are leveraging ESG data to boost growth and strengthen supply chains.

Canadian shoppers face tighter budgets this holiday season, prioritizing value and personalized deals through AI. Cyber Week remains the top buying period, with promotions, free delivery, and loyalty perks influencing purchases. Retailers are refining content, offers, and fulfillment to stand out in a shorter, high-pressure window.

The U.S. has imposed tariffs of 10% or more on goods from over 60 countries, reaching 35% on select Canadian products outside CUSMA. President Trump says the move will boost U.S. growth despite economic risks and global criticism. The policy pressures major partners like the EU, Japan, and South Korea to invest more in the U.S. economy.

The generative AI logistics market is set to grow from $816 million in 2023 to $13.62 billion by 2032, driven by predictive tools like demand forecasting and route optimization. Shipping and ports will expand fastest, while road transport currently leads in market share. North America dominates today, but Asia-Pacific will grow quickest with e-commerce and smart city investments.

Hudson’s Bay has rebranded as Rupert Legacy after selling its name, trademarks, and private labels to Canadian Tire for $30 million. Canadian Tire now controls the iconic branding and plans to preserve or revive it later in 2025. The shift ends Hudson’s Bay’s store presence but preserves its cultural and historical identity in Canadian retail.

Top retail and beauty brands are using ESG data to cut emissions, improve supply chains, and drive growth, not just meet compliance rules. Platforms like Sweep help companies such as L’Oréal, Lacoste, and Caudalie centralize data, find efficiencies, and build credibility with stakeholders. With tighter regulations and AI tools emerging, ESG insights are becoming a competitive advantage.

Are your logistics requirements being effectively addressed? As we head towards the holiday season, let’s explore your eCommerce fulfillment strategies. You can book a brief call with our team of seasoned logistics professionals to evaluate your needs and formulate a customized plan to propel your business forward.

For quick and easy scheduling, here’s a link to my full calendar.

author avatar
NLS Logistics Team Communications
As a leading Third Party Logistics (3PL) firm, we have the strategic infrastructure, technology relationships, and insights to help Canadian and international brands reach and serve the Canadian market
Next
Canadians shift spending, FDA tightens import rules, ground shipping costs hit record
Send this to a friend