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Economist’s Notebook

Key industry highlights from our Chief Economist, Chris Elliott’s research, data, and insights.

Economist’s Notebook

Permanently removing GST from restaurant meals can strengthen our industry

The two-month GST/HST break gave the industry a boost it needed, and not only in increased visits. New…

Economist’s Notebook

How Canadians are making dining out more affordable and Key Issues in Q4

We asked Canadians how they are making dining out at full-service restaurants (FSRs) and quick-service restaurants (QSRs) more…

Economist’s Notebook

Consumer Dining Index Rises in December 

Restaurants Canada’s Consumer Dining Index (CDI) saw a notable increase in December, likely due to the tax holiday…

Economist’s Notebook

Restaurant sales stumble in September with weakest nominal growth of 2024

According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, foodservice sales in Canada rose by tepid 1.4% in September…

Economist’s Notebook

Consumer Dining Index rises in October compared to September, however, it remains below October 2023

Restaurant Canada’s Consumer Dining Index (CDI) fell to 93.3 in October compared to 97.4 in October 2023. Weak…

Economist’s Notebook

Average Canadian Spending 1.1% Less at Restaurants in August

According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, real foodservice sales in Canada rose by 2.4% in August…

Economist’s Notebook

Consumer Dining Index falls in September

The combination of high cost of living, rising menu prices and weak consumer confidence has Canadians cutting back…

Economist’s Notebook

Foodservice Sales Forecast to Grow 4.4% in 2025

According to Restaurants Canada’s latest forecast, foodservice sales are forecast to grow by 4.4% in 2025 compared to…

Economist’s Notebook

Top 10 Food and Beverage Trends at Restaurants

This report is presented with support from Groupex Canada. Menu trends continued to evolve at restaurants in 2024…

Economist’s Notebook Women Communication Dinner Together Concept

Statistics Canada Reports Flat Real Foodservice Sales in June

Despite the expectation for improved foodservice sales in the summer, restaurants in Canada continue to underperform. On a…