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Economist’s Notebook

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

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…

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…