Industry Statistics

  • Today’s technology is driving restaurant resilience

    July 29, 2026
    By Samir Zabeneh Canadian foodservice operators are navigating a landscape defined by rising costs and changing consumer habits, and they are using technology to bridge the gap. Research shows that technology adoption in the restaurant industry is more than just a modernization effort; it has become a mandatory strategy for protecting profit margins and empowering lean ...
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  • Convenience is king for drive-thru diners

    July 28, 2026
    Foodservice continues to evolve, and the definition of value for many diners has shifted. While the benefit of drive-thrus was originally a speedier experience, these days, convenience is even more important to consumers. Today’s diners value food quality most (45 per cent), followed very closely by convenience (44 per cent), and speed (34 per cent) ...
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  • Eatertainment in 2026

    June 4, 2026
    More and more diners are seeking immersive, memorable experiences from restaurants, and eatertainment is one way that consumers can find what they are looking for. While game-based locations may have led the charge, sports outlets featuring golf, bowling, pickleball, and more are popping up to compete in the eatertainment space. RELATED: Adding eatertainment to your restaurant Eatertainment ...
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  • Does better value mean more loyalty?

    June 3, 2026
    As restaurants continue to compete for diner dollars with higher value, lower prices, and unique offerings, is this approach viable over the long haul? Many operators have adopted a strategy focusing on value to reflect the unstable economy and thrifty consumer trend, but this may be a shortsighted approach, offering short-term relief and higher revenues ...
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  • Women in hospitality: overcoming challenges and driving success

    March 6, 2026
    The foodservice industry is constantly evolving, adapting, and growing as it works to address challenges such as labour shortages, mental health concerns, and the need for greater workplace diversity. As these important conversations continue, progress is being made toward achieving more equitable representation for women. However, many opportunities still remain to create meaningful and lasting ...
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  • Common challenges with restaurant technology

    February 16, 2026
    While restaurant technology has the opportunity to revolutionize operations, boost customer experience, and provide significant cost savings, it comes with challenges that can have the opposite effect on your business. A recent study by Canopy illustrates the technology issues that can occur and the effects they can have on efficiency and your customer experience. Here are ...
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  • Exceeding diner expectations this Valentine’s Day

    February 3, 2026
    With Valentine’s Day almost here, many QSRs are choosing themed promos to celebrate love and maximize February margins. From off-premise dining to romantic date nights, Valentine’s Day offers operators the opportunity to stand out, offer something new for regular guests, and attract new visitors to the restaurant. Recent research from OpenTable highlights some trends that operators ...
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  • How restaurant operators can get the most out of technology

    November 24, 2025
    By Sam Brenner Canadian restaurant owners are entering a new era, defined by tighter margins, higher guest expectations, and an unprecedented pace of technological change. Guests may be dining out less often, but when they do, they expect more: more value, more personalization, and more seamless experiences. Modernization isn’t optional anymore. It’s the difference between staying relevant ...
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  • Key trends driving the future of hospitality in Canada

    July 28, 2025
    By Laura Henry With nearly three-quarters of Canadians planning to travel more domestically and spend more time at local bars and restaurants within Canada this summer, there are several hospitality trends to note that can help businesses make the most of the season. Seamless integration of online and in-store experiences According to the 2025 Future of Commerce Report, ...
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  • Eating through the ages: Gen Z and Boomer dining habits

    July 8, 2025
    Getting to know your customer is not a new concept for restaurant operators, but the generational gaps can be broad, leaving restaurateurs working hard to attract all ages. With Gen Z representing 23 per cent of commercial foodservice visits last year, we’re looking at how they compare to Boomers, an age group that’s considered influential ...
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  • Increased restaurant value doesn’t just mean lower prices

    July 4, 2025
    As consumers continue to be extra careful where they spend their money, demonstrating value can really differentiate a restaurant and drive traffic. How can operators offer more value while still maintaining their margins? “Canadians are expecting more value for their dollars as they grapple with affordability…” said Kelly Higginson, President and CEO of Restaurants Canada. “In ...
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  • 2025’s top delivery trends

    April 16, 2025
    Off-premise dining continues to be popular among Canadian diners, with the delivery market predicted to grow another 7.7 per cent by 2030. Whether it’s third-party or through restaurant ordering, delivery is here to stay. What’s important to off-premise diners, and how can restaurants better deliver on their expectations? Here are some stats that may help restaurateurs ...
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  • Today’s tipping culture

    November 6, 2024
    With the elevated inflation over the last several months, tipping and “tipflation” have been important topics for restaurants looking to attract and retain customers, while maintaining their margins. Studies conducted at the beginning of 2023 indicated that diners still felt that 15 per cent was a fair tip for servers, despite continued rising costs across ...
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  • The fall/winter edition of CRFN Magazine is now available!

    October 22, 2024
    As the cold weather arrives and the end of the year approaches, it’s time to take a look at the successes and challenges that today’s foodservice professionals are experiencing. Our fall/winter 2024 issue of CRFN Magazine features timely issues such as keeping restaurants clean and sanitized this season, mastering social media marketing, and more! What’s trending ...
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  • Today’s foodservice industry: knowing the numbers

    October 9, 2024
    Restaurant operators are busy, and sometimes analyzing data can seem time-consuming and overwhelming. Along with the insights they look at for their operations, restaurateurs should keep an eye on what’s happening in the industry, as well as what guests are looking for, what attracts customers, top trends, and more. Here are some valuable stats and ...
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