The summer months are traditionally a busy period for our sector, and this year is no exception.
Mark your calendar for One Table!
Join us on September 16, 2025, at The Warehouse Venue (35 Carl Hall Road #2, North York, Toronto, Ontario) for One Table — Restaurants Canada’s NEW signature dinner for industry leaders and changemakers. This exclusive evening brings together industry leaders, visionaries, and changemakers to recognize excellence, spark meaningful conversations, and explore bold ideas shaping the future of foodservice and hospitality. Advance tickets at special rates are available now through August 1 or until they sell out – secure your spot today!
Workforce development supports for the foodservice industry
The summer months are traditionally a busy period for our sector, and this year is no exception. We’re currently experiencing a unique tourism season, which we’re monitoring closely as more Canadians choose to explore their own country and opt for staycations.
Will this trend lead to increased spending in restaurants? We remain cautiously optimistic.
I recently spoke with Amanda Lang on BNN about this very topic, as well as the ongoing workforce challenges that continue to affect our industry—particularly in rural, remote, and tourism-dependent regions. You can watch the interview here.
What’s clear is that workforce shortages, compounded by recent changes to immigration policy, are placing significant pressure on the foodservice sector; primarily in rural, remote and tourism areas. That’s why Restaurants Canada has made a major investment in workforce initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges and finding sustainable, long-term solutions for our industry.
As part of this initiative and focus Restaurants Canada is pleased to introduce our workforce development supports for the foodservice industry. Restaurants Canada appreciates the importance of a sustainable and reliable workforce, which is why we are investing to identify and develop solutions to bring to you, the operators. Our first action is to introduce you to our Director of Workforce Development, Donald Guse Salah. Donald will be leading our workforce initiatives and is available to you to discuss and facilitate the support you require.
As our workforce development supports and initiatives evolve, we will continue to update our members accordingly. Please find the Workforce Development page on our website here, that includes information on existing projects and initiatives, updates on network building to support recruitment, a contact form to submit requests to meet with Donald and share the particulars of what kind of support you require, along with other resources.
For general recruitment needs, Restaurants Canada is building a network of employment service providers in every province which can support restaurants with access to talent pools of job seekers in their communities. These service providers support job seekers and are funded by federal and provincial governments, representing an ongoing and sustainable source of domestic talent. We piloted this method in Ontario in 2024—in addition to the 500+ people hired through the Skills Development funding, restaurants introduced to our service provider network have hired 178 new employees across the province (and this number continues to grow).
While it takes time to establish networks across the country, we currently have ready-to-go networks in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. We continue working to secure the necessary connections in other provinces and enhance the existing networks to create a more robust framework for referrals.
If you are in need of recruitment support or would like to learn more, please contact Donald to schedule a conversation: DSalah@restaurantscanada.org.
This is in addition to the recently announced research and policy strategy: Building a Resilient Workforce for Canada’s Restaurant Industry.
Over the past few weeks Executive Vice-President of Government Relations and Public Affairs Richard Alexander and I have had a number of discussions with government officials about the recent changes and pressures mounting on our operators.
Public sentiment toward immigration is at a historic low, compounded by housing and other service pressures. These factors have driven recent immigration pullbacks, worsening workforce challenges.
The industry is projected to grow by 200,000 jobs by 2030 (a 17% increase from 2023). To support this growth, we need steady access to talent, improved public perception, and supportive policy.
Our strategy includes:
- In-depth research on workforce needs and trends (nearing completion)
- Regional workforce policy development (summer and fall)
- A national awareness campaign to shift public perception (TBD)
- Advocacy for informed immigration, recruitment, and incentives like tax credits for automation
This long-term plan aims to secure a stable, future-ready workforce, strengthening the industry’s role in Canada’s economy and communities—from local diners to national chains. Campaign timing will align with polling insights and policy developments.
Crime and community safety
The Restaurants Canada team and I have been engaging with governments across Canada and with other stakeholders to bring attention to public safety issues impacting your businesses and working to identify and advocate for public policy solutions that will help make your businesses safe.
We are helping governments understand that our industry is struggling with theft, breaking and entering, assaults on patrons and restaurant staff, vandalism, property damage and other crime. Our industry is ill-equipped to respond to or assist individuals struggling with mental health issues, substance abuse, homelessness and other societal challenges that drive safety issues in restaurants and make employees and patrons feel unsafe.
Central Region VP Kris Barnier and I recently connected with SafeTO, a Toronto-based entity that gives businesses information and tools to help them deter and manage public safety issues, including mental health, addiction, and homelessness. If you have operations in Toronto, I encourage you to see Kris’ report, which includes tools and advice to help you protect your patrons, staff, and business.
Upcoming webinar: Navigating Fraud Trends in the Restaurant Industry
July 23, 2025, 1 pm ET
While it may be an often-overlooked topic, fraud prevention is of utmost importance to our sector. We are seeing an increase in fraud related activity. Businesses in Toronto’s east end have recently reported thousands of dollars in losses due to a “point of sale” (POS) scam. In one case, a business owner says thieves stole his POS terminal and replaced it with a fake.
As fraud tactics grow more sophisticated—from terminal theft to refund scams—restaurants must adapt their security measures to protect operations and customer trust.
To help business owners stay ahead of these threats, Maria Cameron, Director of Risk Management at Moneris, will lead a discussion on restaurant fraud trends and offer practical fraud prevention strategies. Register today
Building An Inclusive, High-Performing Team
Restaurants Canada is proud to introduce and support The Re-Seasoning Coalition’s Equity & Empowerment in Foodservice e-learning program — a first-of-its-kind, research-backed training built specifically for the Canadian foodservice industry.
This six-month curriculum empowers corporate leaders and restaurant managers to better recruit, retain, and promote employees from underrepresented groups, helping close the talent gap while building a stronger, more inclusive workplace.
We’re especially excited to see this program come to life, following The Re-Seasoning Coalition’s groundbreaking work leading RC Show’s first-ever Black Experience Pavilion. Their dedication and leadership continue to create real change in our industry. Be a part of the movement.
Learn more and to join the waitlist, click here.
Restaurants Canada at the Calgary Stampede
I was pleased to make a brief stop at the Calgary Stampede, where I joined our agriculture partners for an evening of networking and celebrating Canada’s incredible agriculture and agri-food industry. The restaurant sector is a major purchaser of Canadian agricultural products—from crops and beef to spirits, wine, beer and more —accounting for over 50% of Canadian agriculture sales. I was proud to chat with our new federal Minister of Agriculture about this along with other vital impacts of our industry on the Canadian economy and communities we serve.
SUSTAINABILITY UPDATE
From Jillian Rodak | Vice President, Sustainability
Recent Sustainability Submissions
Over the past month, Restaurants Canada has actively engaged in several key consultations to ensure the industry’s voice is heard. We submitted feedback to:
- The City of Toronto’s Long-Term Waste Strategy
- The Ontario government’s consultations on the Blue Box Regulation and Resource Recovery and Circular Economy Act
- Environment Climate Change Canada on the Federal Plastics Registry.
We appreciate the members who shared their insights and perspective. Your input has been essential in shaping our submissions to ensure government decisions reflect the needs of our industry.
Tracking Municipal Waste and Packaging Bylaw Developments Across Canada
Municipalities across Canada are increasingly introducing new regulations aimed at addressing single-use plastics, commercial waste, and food waste. To ensure the foodservice sector is well represented, Restaurants Canada has been actively engaging in several priority jurisdictions:
- Toronto, ON: In June, the City consulted on its Long-term Waste Management Strategy to which Restaurants Canada submitted formal feedback. In parallel, consultations have begun on Phase 3 of Toronto’s Circular Economy Roadmap, which explores food circularity initiatives including on commercial food waste and reuse. Restaurants Canada met with the City to share industry perspective ahead of the development of roadmap’s final development.
- Gatineau, QC: The City is developing two new bylaws – one banning the sale and distribution of single-use plastic items, and another requiring mandatory Industrial, Commercial and Institutional (ICI) recycling and composting. Draft bylaws are expected to be presented to City Council for approval in September 2025. Restaurants Canada met with City staff earlier this year and submitted written feedback. We are continuing to engage with the City to provide additional input before the draft regulations are finalized.
- Montreal, QC: The City is drafting a prototype regulation to address commercial food waste, including proposed requirements for restaurants to retain unsold food for donation. Restaurants Canada is submitting a letter to the City outlining member concerns and requesting continued involvement in the proposed regulation prototype development process.
ATLANTIC UPDATE
From Janick Cormier | Vice-President, Atlantic Canada
Nova Scotia
A reminder that the new WCB duty to cooperate policy came into effect on July 15th . These changes aim to ensure a safe and timely return to work and directly affect all employers in Nova Scotia.
At its core, Duty to Cooperate is a shared responsibility that brings workers, employers, and WCB together to support safe and timely return to work. Employers who do not follow the requirements may face penalties including the full cost of compensation.
There is still one upcoming information session from the Office of the Employer Advisor Nova Scotia on July 23rd from 10am to 12pm. If you wish to attend, please register directly them at info@oceans.ca .
CENTRAL CANADA UPDATE
From Kris Barnier | Vice President, Central Canada and the North
Ontario
Crime/Public Safety Tools for Toronto Businesses
As shared in Kelly’s note, public safety is a top priority for Central Region. In Ontario, I recently met with the Premier’s Office, the Office of the Minister of the Solicitor General, and other key offices to help them better understand the frequency and severity of the challenges your businesses face. I thank members who have taken the time to speak with me about how crime and issues of public safety are impacting your businesses. The stories and data you have shared with me are incredibly impactful as Restaurants Canada works to bring attention and drive more action on these issues.
Please see below for a list of tools and information shared with us by SafeTO
- SafeTO BIA Toolkit – This toolkit offers information, including who to call for different types of incidents (emergency, mental health crisis, non emergency, recurring non-emergency issues, etc). It also contains information on warming centres, drop in programs shelters, and other information your team can share with visitors to your business who are in need of support.
- Current EcDev Led De-escalation Session – Free virtual sessions for front line retailers and led by a social worker, hosted by the City of Toronto.
- Better Streets – De-escalation training that is hospitality focused, pricing is negotiable with the provider.
- REaCT – This program is run by police officers. Resolution, Education and Crisis Training (REaCT) incorporates de-escalation, situational awareness training and brand protection by enhancing employee preparedness.
- Overdose Prevention Training - Parkdale Queen West Community Health Care Centre has community harm reduction training, presentations and naloxone training.
- Commercial Façade Improvement Grant Program – City of Toronto (open now) – This program offers funding that helps businesses improve their facades.
Ontario grants to help businesses adopt digital technologies
Last week, the Ontario government announced it is investing $7.5 million to help small and medium-sized businesses across the province modernize and grow by adopting digital technologies. The Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP) helps businesses assess their digital needs and work with a consultant to create a customized plan. Through DMAP, companies can receive a grant of up to $15,000 to match private investment that supports planning for technology investments. Companies that have completed a DMAP project are eligible for additional funding through the Technology Demonstration Program, which includes a grant of up to $100,000 to match private investment in purchasing and installing new technologies that support business growth and create jobs. For more information, see here.
Extended Producer Responsibility
With input from the members of our Sustainability Committee, we recently responded to an Ontario government consultation on Ontario Blue Box Regulations. We outlined our support for the Government’s plans to delay the expansion of the program and to ensure that targets are reasonable and attainable. We also called on the government to further study the impact of a multi-Pro system on transparency, effectiveness, and cost. We believe the government’s approach demonstrates that it understands the financial realities facing foodservice and other businesses, and that it understands that more work needs to be done to strengthen the efficiency/cost and effectiveness of the program.
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program Updates
Please click here for the latest program updates. The Update speaks to the launch of a new employer portal, measures around in-person interviews, the application process, and how the program will aim to be more responsive to evolving market needs.
Manitoba
State of Emergency
Restaurants Canda extends its sympathy to the members and communities impacted by wildfires. Please reach out to us if your business has been impacted by the wildfires and if you are in need of government support. This tool shared by the Manitoba Government has up-to-date information about the wildfires.
Taste of Manitoba – From August 28 – Sept 1
I am looking forward to joining MRFA at its Taste of Manitoba Event in Winnipeg. This premier event features live music and an opportunity to enjoy some of the province’s most incredible, fun, and iconic food creations. The event expects to draw 7-10K visitors, and will also be well attended by industry, sponsors, and elected officials. To learn more about the event, see here.
Northern Territories
Nunavut – Minimum wage in Nunavut will increase to $19.75 per hour on September 1, and a new formula is being introduced to adjust it annually. See here for more information.
North West Territories – The community of Colville Lake will hold a public vote to determine if residents support restricting the amount of alcohol people can bring into or possess within the community. Please see here for additional details.
WESTERN UPDATE
From Mark von Schellwitz | Vice-President, Western Canada
Restaurants Canada at the 2025 Calgary Stampede
Restaurants Canada was once again well represented at a number of 2025 Calgary Stampede events. The Calgary Stampede is a great opportunity to network with numerous MPs, MLAs, Ministers, and Mayors from Alberta and across the country. We had the opportunity to discuss several national and provincial issues including, food tax fairness, foreign worker/immigration policies, and Alberta’s new Ad Valorem wine mark up with numerous government officials, MPs, MLAs and Ministers. I was also an honour to have been white hatted by Calgary Mayor Gondek at the Hotel Association of Canada Stampede event.
Upcoming British Columbia Policy Reviews
Following WorkSafeBC’s hospitality industry information sessions on their controversial and confusing gratuity policy directive in June, Restaurants Canada has been invited to provide input into several other policy reviews covering environmental, liquor, and labour, policies. We also understand that the province will soon be initiating a food safety policy review. Here is a summary of the upcoming BC policy reviews and how members can provide input.
CleanBC Review
The BC Government appointed a two-person CleanBC Review Panel to review various CleanBC environmental objectives. Restaurants Canada submitted the following submission opposing future CleanBC and municipal natural gas restrictions in consultation with our Coalition of Affordable Dependable Energy (CADE) colleagues. If members would like to provide the CleanBC Review Panel with additional input and recommendations directly they can email the Review Panel at CleanBCReview@gov.bc.ca.
LCRB Liquor to Go Consultation
The BC Liquor and Cannabis Regulatory Branch (LCRB) reached out to Restaurants Canada and other stakeholders for input on the province’s liquor to go policy that was implemented permanently in 2021. LCRB developed the following Engagement Paper on the Liquor to Go policy asking a number of questions on possible changes to the policy. Those members interested in the liquor to go policy are encouraged to reach out to mark@restaurantscanada.org with input for Restaurants Canada’s submission before the August 7th deadline. Currently Restaurants Canada sees no need for liquor to go policy changes. Members may also want to provide their liquor to go policy perspectives directly in writing to LCRB.Outreach@gov.bc.ca.
City of Vancouver Liquor Policy Review
Restaurants Canada has been engaged in consultations on potential City of Vancouver liquor policy changes including licensed hours of operation. The City’s liquor review is now complete and the link to staff report and recommendations can be found here. The report is scheduled for Council consideration on July 22nd. Restaurants Canada is in favour of the proposed policy changes designed to streamline and modernize the City’s liquor policies and provide additional flexibility on hours of operation and the location of certain licensed businesses. Members interested in providing comments on the report and recommendations to Council can do so here.
Extended Illness Injury Leave Consultation
The Ministry of Labour has asked Restaurants Canada to provide feedback on a proposed 27-week unpaid job protected leave period that aligns with federal Employment Insurance sickness benefits which were increased in 2022. They prepared the following Engagement Paper discussing the rationale for the proposed leave. Those members interested in the proposed 27-week unpaid protected job leave policy are encouraged to reach out to mark@restaurantscanada.org with input for Restaurants Canada’s submission before the August 15th deadline. Members can also provide feedback directly to labour.policy@gov.bc.ca.
Labour Relations Code Review Panel Report Consultation
Employer stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on the Labour Relations Code Panel Report released on June 25th. As with last year’s report Restaurants Canada will sign on to a joint employer association response submission which is due September 19th. If any members have input on the report, please reach out to mark@restaurantscanada.org.
With gratitude,
Kelly Higginson
