Business operators are hopeful for an increase in sales this holiday, but there is concern that online shopping will cut profits this year.

The island’s Chambers of Commerce say there is the usual increase in the number of consumers out and about, and they are hopeful that this will translate into sales.

With a day to Grand Market, businesses are expecting the last-minute sales.

There is increased movement of people in all major towns across the island. Bumper-to-bumper traffic and sidewalks and streets blocked off to accommodate vendors.

Consumers are looking for deals, and store operators are hoping for an uptick in business this time of year.

However, President of the St. Catherine Chamber of Commerce Denis Robotham indicates local businesses are facing serious competition from online outlets.

He says with a day to go for persons to complete their holiday shopping, there is anticipation.

Meantime, President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce, Oral Heaven, is happy the police are deployed across the second city to help address traffic issues.

He points to security concerns and encourages businesses and consumers to implement safety measures.

Furthermore, in Manchester, Chamber of Commerce President Omar Fennel is also urging residents to be careful over the holiday. He says people are optimistic.