Sales at food services and drinking places rose 1.1% to $8.0 billion in December 2023 (seasonally adjusted). Sales increased at limited-service eating places (+1.7%), full-service restaurants (+0.5%), special food services (+0.9%) and drinking places (+2.7%).
Sales were up in eight provinces, with the largest increases in dollar terms in Ontario (+1.8%), British Columbia (+2.6%) and Alberta (+2.1%). Quebec (-1.7%) posted the largest decline, coinciding with multiple strikes occurring across the province throughout the month.
Prices for food purchased from restaurants were up 5.6% in December 2023 compared with December 2022, while prices for alcoholic beverages served in licensed establishments increased 5.5%.
Description - December 2023 sales
December 2023 sales
(seasonally adjusted)
+1.1% to $8.0 billion
Full-service restaurants
$3.5 billion; +0.5%
Sales at limited-service restaurants
$3.7 billion; +1.7%
Price variations
December 2023 versus December 2022
+5.6% Food purchased from restaurants
+5.5% Alcoholic beverages served in licensed establishments
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