Canadian consumer spending remained resilient during Q3 2026, while household financial pressure produced widening differences in purchasing behaviour. The report examines retail sales, value seeking, credit use and shopping decisions, distinguishing aggregate spending growth from changes in individual household demand.
Food inflation has exceeded Canada's overall inflation rate for 15 consecutive months under Prime Minister Mark Carney, highlighting ongoing affordability concerns for households.
The company says that foot traffic was already down prior to COVID-19, and it is coming up with solutions to get shoppers into the shopping centres with a renewed sense of confidence.