We're still seeing snow clearing activity in and around Portage la Prairie in the wake of last week's blizzard.

While that's causing inconvenience for some, businesses in the region are smiling, with Christmas not far away.

Portage Chamber of Commerce Vice-president Preston Meier says the white stuff is good news for many enterprises.

Preston Meier

"Some of the obvious things like snow shovels, snow blowers, businesses that clean drive-ways, and operate those kind of seasonal activities, in addition to, of course, shopping. I think Christmas is probably the biggest season where retailers see a large impact. Now, you don't have to have snow to have Christmas, but I think once the snow falls, I think people kind of get into that mood which gets you more into the holiday season."

Meier calls the winter season important.

"Especially, our economy is dependent in it. In addition to that, we certainly hope the people support our local businesses, and I think a lot of our members go out of their way to be able to help people through the season. Especially garages, mechanics, car maintenance, and so on. So we certainly hope that our community supports the businesses, of course, because those small businesses are economic driver of our community."