Economist’s Notebook

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

Consumer Dining Index Bounces Back in February, But Profits Still Down

Restaurants Canada’s Consumer Dining Index improved in February rose by 15.4 points to 90.5 (July 2022 = 100). This represents the highest level since October 2022. Beginning next month, Restaurants Canada will be able to track dining trends on a year-over-year basis, which will remove the seasonal influence.

Economist’s Notebook

Cooling Economy and Rising Prices Result in Fewer Restaurant Visits in January

According to Restaurants Canada’s latest REACT Survey, the number of restaurant purchases made by Canadians continued to trend down in January 2023.

Economist’s Notebook

Why 2022 Was Not the “Return-to-Normal Year” as Hoped for by Many Restaurant Owners

Despite an increase in restaurant traffic in 2022 compared to 2021, more was needed to enable restaurant owners to

Economist’s Notebook

Real Foodservice Sales Drop in November 2022

Taking into account menu inflation, November 2022 real commercial foodservice sales were 4.7% lower across Canada compared to…

Economist’s Notebook

How to Beat the January Lull in Foodservice Sales

As January is typically a slower month for the restaurant industry, a greater share of Canadians said they…

Economist’s Notebook

Dinner Purchase Frequency Tumbles in November

The share of Canadians who purchased dinner from a restaurant at least once a week or more fell…

Economist’s Notebook

October Foodservice Sales Remain Below 2019 Levels

Canada’s commercial foodservice industry generated sales of nearly $7.5 billion in October 2022. Despite a double-digit increase over…