Results from the Deloitte Canada 2012 Holiday Outlook Survey were released this week, suggesting Canadians will spend one per cent to two per cent more this year than last year when they do their Christmas shopping.  North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce President John Strang says anytime there is positive growth in retail, local chamber members benefit.  Strang says the city has a vibrant downtown, and two great shopping centres to service shoppers.  He also expects prices at the pumps will also have a positive impact on local businesses this Christmas, as higher gas prices will force many to fore go a road trip to do Christmas shopping, instead shopping local.  The survey also found 60 per cent of shoppers plan to use the Internet to research prices before they head out to shop.  This is up from 49 per cent in 2011.  Strang believes this can only have a positive effect on local businesses.

Written by: lisa.laporte@northbayradio.rogers.com