The FPSC Consumer Survey: Palates and Pockets uncovers the real drivers behind Canadian grocery shopping decisions, revealing what matters most to consumers—and where retailers may be getting it wrong.
The FPSC Consumer Survey: Palates and Pockets provides a deep dive into the attitudes and behaviors of Canadian grocery shoppers, examining how inflation, health concerns, and food preferences shape purchasing decisions. Conducted in late 2023, the survey explores consumer trust in food safety, perceptions of processed foods, and the growing demand for transparency in food sourcing and pricing. The findings highlight key gaps between consumer expectations and retailer assumptions, providing valuable insights for food and beverage processors.
Consumer trust in grocery food safety is low, with only 60% trusting store products and 30% believing all food is inspected by authorities.
Inflation has driven major shopping habit changes, with 84% noticing a price surge and 64% making five or more adjustments, such as switching to discount stores and private-label brands.
Consumers and retailers disagree on food priorities, as retailers overestimate interest in product origin and eco-friendly packaging, while shoppers prioritize freshness, quality, and price.
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