The Best Online Marketplaces for Canadian Consumers - Updated Guide

Canada’s Top 10 eCommerce Marketplaces You Should Know

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the global eCommerce landscape, and Canada is no exception.

Over the past few years, the reliance on online marketplaces has surged as digital transformation accelerated, with consumers increasingly turning to eCommerce for essential purchases during lockdowns.

This shift in consumer behavior has fueled online shopping and increased demand on digital retail platforms.

Canada has one of the largest internet user bases, with 99.1% of the population using the internet in 2022, and projected to grow to 99.5% by 2027, so the trend will continue.

Interestingly, while Canadian consumers embraced online shopping early on, local businesses initially needed to catch up.

This opened doors for major US-based marketplaces to dominate the Canadian market, meeting the demand for convenience and variety.

Canadian consumers can access various online marketplaces catering to their unique shopping needs.

From global giants like Amazon and eBay to Canadian-born platforms like Shopify and Well.ca, these marketplaces offer diverse products, competitive prices, and reliable shipping options tailored to Canadian shoppers.

These online platforms make shopping convenient, whether looking for tech gadgets, home essentials, or fashion items.

They also offer local support and faster delivery. Explore the best options available for Canadians today.

Key Consumer Trends Impacting Canada’s Online Shopping Market

1. Canadian consumers increasingly embrace Click & Collect and omnichannel shopping experiences, where they can order online and pick up in-store. This hybrid approach offers convenience and flexibility, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

2. Social media has become an essential marketing channel for eCommerce businesses due to its high ROI. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok allow businesses to connect directly with consumers, showcasing products and facilitating purchases through social commerce features.

3. Mobile payment technologies such as Google Pay, Apple Pay, and mPOS systems are becoming more popular as 5G expands. These technologies provide faster, more secure transactions, making mobile commerce more efficient for consumers and businesses.

4. Canadian online shoppers can access diverse payment methods, with credit cards like MasterPass, Interac Online, and PayPal being the most common. Multiple payment options are essential for businesses to cater to consumer preferences and increase trust.

5. Younger generations are leading the rise of mobile commerce in Canada. They are more comfortable shopping with smartphones and are responsive to mobile advertisements like video ads. This demographic expects seamless, mobile-friendly experiences from eCommerce platforms.

6. Flexible payment solutions like Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL) are gaining popularity, especially among younger consumers. These options allow shoppers to split payments over time, increasing affordability and driving higher business sales.

Top 10 Online Marketplaces for Canadian Consumers

1. Amazon Canada

Amazon Canada offers free shipping on eligible orders, especially for Prime members, making it a go-to destination for marketplace online shopping.

With nearly 160.45 million monthly visitors, Amazon's extensive product range, from electronics to household goods, caters to diverse consumer needs.

The platform features an easy-to-navigate interface, advanced search capabilities, and customer reviews that enhance the shopping experience.

Amazon's commitment to fast delivery options, including same-day and two-day shipping in select areas, solidifies its position as a leader in the online marketplace Canada landscape.

Furthermore, its Amazon Vendor Central Canada program enables brands to sell directly to Amazon, enhancing visibility and sales potential.

2. Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada provides free shipping on orders over a certain amount, appealing to its 33 million monthly visitors.

With around 400 online and physical stores nationwide, Walmart offers a wide selection of products ranging from groceries to electronics, making it a one-stop shop for Canadian consumers.

The platform's user-friendly design allows shoppers to find items quickly, check stock availability, and choose between home delivery or in-store pickup. Walmart also employs a price-matching policy, ensuring customers get the best deals possible.

The combination of convenience, competitive pricing, and an extensive product range makes it a preferred choice for families and individuals looking for Etsy alternatives in Canada and more.

3. Kijiji

Kijiji primarily facilitates local transactions, so free shipping isn't typically a feature; however, many sellers may offer to meet for free exchanges.

The site attracts nearly 55.81 million online visitors monthly, making it a popular platform for buying and selling new and used items.

Kijiji uniquely connects local buyers and sellers, fostering community interactions and enabling users to negotiate directly.

The platform supports a wide range of categories, including real estate, jobs, and services, enhancing its appeal to users looking for deals in their vicinity.

As part of the list of online marketplaces in Canada, Kijiji remains a top choice for those seeking bargains without shipping complications.

4. eBay Canada

eBay Canada offers various sellers the option of free shipping on certain items, promoting competitive pricing and value for its 28.22 million visitors each month.

As a global marketplace, eBay allows users to buy and sell various products, from collectibles and fashion to electronics and home goods.

The platform features auction-style listings and a "Buy It Now" option, giving consumers flexibility and choice.

eBay’s buyer protection policies give shoppers confidence in their transactions, while the ability to compare prices across different sellers enhances the shopping experience.

With its diverse product range and competitive environment, eBay serves as one of the primary Etsy marketplaces for Canadian consumers.

5. Best Buy Canada

Best Buy Canada frequently offers free shipping on orders over a specific amount, catering to its nearly 31.96 million online visitors.

As a leading electronics retailer, Best Buy provides a seamless shopping experience with an extensive selection of the latest tech products, including computers, appliances, and gaming gear.

The platform offers detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and expert recommendations, helping shoppers make informed decisions.

Best Buy also features a price-matching guarantee, ensuring customers receive the best deals. Additionally, its option for in-store pickup allows consumers to quickly obtain their purchases, combining the benefits of online shopping with the immediacy of physical retail.

Integrating Shopify store marketplace capabilities could enhance its online strategy even further.

6. Canadian Tire

Canadian Tire offers free shipping on qualifying orders, enhancing the shopping experience for its 25.50 million monthly visitors.

With more than 500 retail stores across Canada, the company specializes in automotive, hardware, and home products.

Canadian Tire’s website provides comprehensive product information, customer reviews, and project guides, making it an invaluable resource for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners.

The platform also features a loyalty program that rewards customers with points for every purchase, encouraging repeat business.

By combining a solid online presence with its well-established retail locations, Canadian Tire effectively meets the diverse needs of consumers looking for reliable Etsy alternatives in Canada.

7. Costco Canada

Costco Canada offers free shipping on select items for members, making it an attractive option for those looking to save.

With around 22.67 million monthly visitors, Costco’s membership-based model provides access to bulk products at competitive prices.

The retailer is well-known for its quality and value, from groceries to electronics, appealing to families and individuals looking to save on everyday items.

Costco's website features a user-friendly layout, detailed product descriptions, and customer reviews, which allow members to make informed purchasing decisions.

Additionally, ordering online and picking up in-store adds convenience, especially for bulk purchases, while aligning with the trends seen in the marketplace on Shopify setups.

8. Hudson’s Bay

Hudson’s Bay commonly called “The Bay,” offers free shipping on orders over a certain threshold and attracts almost 15 million visitors monthly.

As one of Canada's oldest retailers, it offers a diverse range of fashion, home goods, and beauty products.

Hudson’s Bay is recognized for its quality and stylish offerings, often featuring exclusive brands and collaborations.

The website is designed to enhance the shopping experience, featuring curated collections, seasonal promotions, and personalized recommendations.

Additionally, Hudson’s Bay maintains a strong presence in brick-and-mortar retail, allowing customers to shop online and in-store seamlessly. This caters to varying consumer preferences and enhances its status as a critical player in the list of online marketplaces in Canada.

9. Home Depot Canada

Home Depot Canada frequently offers free shipping on eligible items, catering to its 11.67 million monthly visitors.

Known for its wide selection of home improvement products, Home Depot serves DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors.

The website provides comprehensive product information, installation guides, and customer reviews, making it a valuable resource for home projects.

Home Depot also features a price-matching policy, ensuring customers receive the best deals possible. With in-store pickup and delivery options, Home Depot balances convenience and efficiency, making it easier for shoppers to complete their home improvement tasks in Canada's evolving landscape of online marketplaces.

10. Newegg Canada

Newegg Canada often provides free shipping on select tech products, appealing to its 3.07 million monthly visitors.

Known for its extensive range of electronics and tech gadgets, Newegg caters to technology enthusiasts seeking the latest products at competitive prices.

The website features detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and a robust search function, helping users find their needs.

Newegg's frequent promotions and flash sales create urgency and excitement, enticing consumers to purchase.

By offering free shipping and a comprehensive selection of tech products, Newegg effectively captures the attention of Canadian shoppers looking for quality and value in an alternative to Etsy's marketplace.