English
Winnipeg families are heading to discount and bargain stores in growing numbers as back-to-school shopping costs continue to climb ahead of the new academic year.
According to a 2026 Retail Council of Canada report, back-to-school shopping generates more than $4.5 billion annually across the country. Individual households can expect to spend between $600 and $750 per child on school supplies. With inflation reaching three per cent in July, many parents say the financial pressure is unavoidable.
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Parents Feel the Pinch at the Register
Graham Voth, a parent shopping at Value Village in Winnipeg, expressed a sentiment shared by many families this season. “I’m so tired of hearing about the rising costs. I mean, it sucks, but we all have to deal with it,” he said.
Bargain retailers across the city are seeing increased foot traffic as parents hunt for deals on everything from notebooks and pencils to backpacks and clothing. The combination of persistent inflation and high per-child spending is pushing more families toward budget-conscious options.
Community Organization Steps Up to Help
The rising back-to-school costs in Winnipeg have also driven greater demand for community support programs. Tru-North Supply, an organization that produces affordable backpack kits for children in northern communities, has seen a notable surge in interest this year.
Danica Lazatin, sales and marketing co-ordinator at Tru-North Supply, confirmed the organization has already filled 400 backpacks this season. The kits are designed to give children access to essential school supplies at little or no cost to their families.
Classes Set to Begin September 9
With the first day of classes scheduled for September 9, families across Winnipeg are working to complete their back-to-school preparations. The combination of rising inflation and high seasonal spending continues to make this time of year a financial challenge for many households.
Retailers and community organizations alike are responding to the increased demand, reflecting a broader trend of Winnipeg families seeking practical ways to manage the growing cost of sending children back to school.
