N.B. shoppers spent $23M Dec. 23 last year, says Interac

If you're planning on hitting the stores Wednesday, be warned.

According to Interac, December 23is anticipated to be the busiest shopping day of the year fordebitcardholders in its network.

It won't be the first time. Last year, New Brunswickdebitusersmade 505,837transactions and spent more than $23.5 million on thatday alone, according to numbers from Interac.

Overall, Canadians made over 19 million transactions and spent close to $1 billionon December 23last year. The top shopping categories included grocery purchases (34.4%),discount stores (15.1%), and beer, wine and liquor purchases (11.7%).

Malls such as McAllister Place in Saint John have been anticipating therush.

"We've done lots to prepare," said Tanya McCluskey-Kelly, marketing manager of McAllister Place."Retailers' shelves are well stocked. We've extended our holiday hours."

"We certainly project it's going to be the busiest day of the year again."

Many mall-goershave even planned their last-minute holiday shopping habits.

"Absolutelyevery year!" said one shopper. "I guess I just love the rush of rushing around and putting myself on the spot and pressure."

On the other hand, some brave shoppers have taken their last minute tendencies with confidence and poise.

"It's not last minute," said another. "It's not the 24th."