Skip to Main Content

Economist’s Notebook

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

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…

Economist’s Notebook

Consumer Dining Index drops in July 2024 compared to July 2023

On a year-over-year basis, Restaurant Canada’s Consumer Dining Index (CDI) remains below 2023 levels, at 95.4 in July…

Economist’s Notebook

Per capita restaurant spending slips 1.6% in May

Restaurants Canada’s Consumer Dining Index (CDI) recovered from May’s drop to 82.6, climbing up to 95.9 in June as…

Economist’s Notebook

Consumer Dining Index Recovers After Unexpected Slump in June 2024

Restaurants Canada’s Consumer Dining Index (CDI) recovered from May’s drop to 82.6, climbing up to 95.9 in June as…

Economist’s Notebook

Consumer Dining Index Slumps to Lowest Level Since January 2023

Restaurants Canada’s Consumer Dining Index (CDI) dropped unexpectedly in May to 82.6 (July 2023 = 100) from 92.2…

Economist’s Notebook

Restaurants Canada Updates Restaurant Sales Forecast

Restaurants Canada Updates Restaurant Sales Forecast Restaurants Canada has updated its quarterly forecast of foodservice sales for the…

Economist’s Notebook

Canada’s restaurant industry records lacklustre real sales in March

The combination of weak consumer confidence and high cost of living continued to restrain guest spending at restaurants…

Economist’s Notebook

Consumer Dining Index Dips in March 2024 Compared to February

Consumer Dining Index Dips in March 2024 Compared to February Restaurant Canada’s Consumer Dining Index (CDI) dipped slightly…

Economist’s Notebook

Restaurant employment tumbles 26,600 jobs in March

Restaurant employment tumbles 26,600 jobs in March Canada’s restaurant and accommodation industry shed 26,600 jobs in March compared…

Economist’s Notebook

Nine provinces report lower real restaurant sales in January 2024

Nine provinces report lower real restaurant sales in January 2024 Canada’s commercial foodservice industry began the year on…