Food costs in Canada are driving consumers to adopt new shopping habits, according to a recent survey by Dalhousie University.
The study suggests a significant increase in the frequency of grocery shopping trips, with consumers now making approximately seven trips per month, up from the previous count of five in a 2018 study.
“The survey findings underscore a strong inclination towards discount-oriented shopping among grocery consumers, with weekly shopping being commonplace. Discounts play a significant role in in-store selection and product purchases, with percentage discounts and loyalty rewards proving particularly attractive. Therefore, grocery stores stand to benefit from prioritizing these types of promotions. According to our survey, Loblaw is seen as the preferred grocer when it comes to discounted food products, followed by Walmart and Costco. Both Metro and Giant Tiger make the Top 5,” the survey reads.
The survey highlights that nearly 60 per cent of Canadians actively seek discounted food products, including items near expiration dates. It also highlights that a 50 per cent discount has motivated consumers to purchase expiring food items.
Fresh vegetables (59.9 per cent), meats (59.7 per cent), packaged and canned foods (57.7 per cent), baked goods (48.6 per cent), and dairy products (48.3 per cent) are the most popular discounted food products among customers.
Prices in British Columbia are expected to increase by 2.5 to 4.5 per cent, in line with the national average, according to Canada’s Food Price Report 2024.
Apps that save food are becoming more and more popular as a result of the difficult economic situation. The apps help prevent food waste and save users money, according to the survey. Roughly 40 per cent of respondents said they had used food apps, and at least 95 per cent said they would be likely to suggest them to others.
Source: grocerybusiness.ca