A Mastercard survey released on November 18, 2020 found 64% of Canadian respondents preferred not to give cash during the holiday season, choosing gift cards instead. Nearly half planned to send more presents directly to recipients' homes to limit personal contact.

The research showed a wider shift in retailer preferences during the pandemic. Eighty percent intended to shop from local brands, while 72% planned to prioritize companies sharing their values. Most respondents also said they wanted to buy from businesses they already knew and trusted.

Seventy-eight percent were likely to shop online, although 68% still planned some store visits. Among consumers considering physical shopping, contactless payments were important: 73% intended to use stores offering that option.

Three-quarters aimed to begin purchases before Cyber Monday. Mastercard presented the results as evidence of changing priorities involving convenience, safety and support for businesses. The figures represented Canadian shoppers' plans for the 2020 season rather than subsequent purchase totals.