Tumbleweed Toys (image credit - CFJC Today)

By Michael Reeve

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Dec 1, 2025 | 4:52 PM

KAMLOOPS — Black Friday has come and gone, Small Business Saturday is over, and Cyber Monday (Dec. 1) is nearing completion, as the Big Three of weekend shopping have the holiday season well underway, with shoppers looking for the perfect gifts for everybody on their lists.

But as the rise of e-commerce takes over, local businesses are shining through, reporting big returns as Kamloops shoppers head out.

The ease of online shopping may pull some away from the snowy streets of Kamloops, but shopping local remains a priority for many in the Tournament Capital.

“We were really, really busy. We did do some Black Friday and Small Business Saturday specials, but regardless of the online world, we are always busy at Christmas here,” said Vanessa Gammel, owner of Tumbleweed Toys. “We are in full gear now for the next couple of weeks.”

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“Honestly, it’s crazy all through November and December. We have got tons of sales going on so people are coming in all the time and getting all their shopping done,” said Josh Corbett, assistant manager at Andre’s Electronic Experts.

While it’s not always easy to compete against the giant online retailers, small businesses like Andre’s Electronics and Tumbleweed Toys are pledging something often left wanting in the virtual world.

“We get a lot of customers in here that are really happy to get that local feel, to get that customer service because we wrap the gifts, we do all the things, so a lot of people really appreciate that,” added Gammel.

Some well-prepared people may have already crossed off the final names on their holiday shopping list, but many are just ramping up, with TVs and toys flying off the shelves.

“Lego. Every year Lego is always huge, remote control cars are really big for us, Jellycats really big, anything Labubu-type of toys is really big,” said Gammel. “And squishy toys. Squishy and sensory toys are always huge, so they are a great stocking stuffer.

“Tons of people this holiday season. We have had lots of people coming through the doors, coming in to learn about all the new technology and pick up Christmas presents and new presents for themselves,” said Corbett, who noted this year may actually be busier than years past at the shop.

Add in the customer services and the knowledge that community supports community.

“We do a lot for charities here at Tumbleweed Toys, local stuff, we do a lot for the food bank. Anything people are doing to support a local business does help support local charities, as well,” said Gammel.