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The latest news and information for entrepreneurs from across the web universe, brought to you by the Report on Small Business
Free Shipping for one day only
Today is Free Shipping Day and hundreds of companies across Canada are offering free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve.
While the one-day shopping campaign has been running in the U.S. for five years, it's only the second year for Canadian retailers. It's also on a much smaller scale: where 230 stores participate up North, a whopping 2,600 merchants take part in the U.S.
With the success of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, promoters of the new shopping day aim to cash in on Canadians' growing desire to shop online. A recent American Express poll found that 56 per cent of Canadians plan to shop online for at least some of their gifts this season, up five per cent from 2011.
As beneficial as free shipping may be for consumers, however, it can be a double-edged sword for small businesses, struggling to keep up. "Many small Canadian retailers are feeling the pinch when it comes to shipping costs," writes Shelley White. And despite its name, 'free shipping day' doesn't necessarily mean free, according to the Financial Post. Promoters encourage merchants to offer free shipping with no minimum order, though some simply lower their minimums.
If you're interested in seeing what it's all about and maybe scoring a deal or two, check out FreeShippingDay.ca to take advantage of the offers and coupons.
Manitoba to help small businesses with succession
Over a luncheon to the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, Premier Greg Selinger announced plants to entrepreneurs transfer their businesses to new owners as they retire, according to the Winnipeg Free Press .
It's are an estimated 40 per cent of small– and medium-sized owners will retire in the next five years, meaning the province will undergo a significant transition, explains Mr. Selinger.
The Manitoba Business Succession Resource Centre aims to help entrepreneurs overcome the challenges of transferring their businesses to new owners and to continue driving the economy.
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