Findings
Changing Perceptions of International Foods: 79% of Canadians now view international foods as familiar, reflecting growing openness to diverse cuisines.
Grocery Store Evolution: 87% of newer Canadians prefer grocery stores offering a wide range of internationally inspired foods, while 84% purchase such foods separately from other groceries.
Top Desired Cuisines: African (45%), Korean (31%), and Caribbean (27%) cuisines are in high demand.
International Foods Aisle Reconsideration: 84% of newer Canadians and 63% of all Canadians believe international foods should be integrated into regular grocery categories.
Newer Canadian Demographics:
Age: 32% of recent immigrants are aged 25–34, while 24% are 35–44.
Source Countries: India is a leading source, with increasing numbers from Syria and Nigeria.
Shopping Behavior: Discount supermarkets (43%) and dollar stores (40%) are popular choices.
Halal Market Growth:
Canada’s Muslim population has grown to 1.8 million (5% of the total population).
Demand for halal foods is diversifying into baked goods, candy, dairy, and beverages.
Mistrust of halal certification highlights the need for transparent communication.
Italian Cuisine:
Italian foods, from pizza to PDO-certified cheese, maintain strong demand.
Consumers prioritize clean eating, sustainability, and authenticity in Italian products.
Key Takeaway
Canada's increasingly multicultural population drives demand for globally inspired, high-quality, and authentic foods, creating opportunities for grocers to innovate and meet diverse consumer needs.
Trend
Multiculturalism and consumer preference for authentic international foods are reshaping Canadian grocery retail.
Consumer Motivation
Familiarity with Diversity: Canadians seek international foods they recognize and enjoy.
Cultural Connection: Immigrants desire products that remind them of home.
Authenticity and Quality: Demand for authentic, clean, and premium products.
What is Driving the Trend
Immigration fueling demographic shifts.
Rising consumer sophistication about international cuisines.
Increased cultural integration, with dual identities influencing food choices.
Who Are the People Referred to in the Article
Newer Canadians: Recently immigrated individuals, aged 25–44, driving demand for international foods and halal options.
Broader Canadian Population: Growing interest in African, Korean, and Caribbean cuisines.
Description of Product or Service
International Foods: Diverse cuisines integrated into mainstream grocery offerings.
Halal Products: Beyond meat, including baked goods, candy, dairy, and beverages.
Italian Cuisine: High-quality, PDO-certified items such as Prosciutto di Parma and Grana Padano.
Age
Primarily younger consumers aged 25–44, including both immigrants and Canadian-born individuals.
Conclusions
As Canada’s population diversifies, grocers must adapt to meet rising demand for globally inspired, high-quality, and culturally relevant foods.
Implications for Brands
Expand International Offerings: Introduce diverse cuisines in a culturally sensitive manner.
Integrate Products: Replace “international aisles” with category-specific placements.
Focus on Transparency: Build trust in halal and authentic certifications.
Implications for Society
Cultural Integration: Food is a bridge for understanding and celebrating multiculturalism.
Accessibility: Improved availability of international foods promotes inclusion.
Implications for Consumers
Greater access to authentic international and specialty foods.
Easier cultural integration for immigrants through food.
Implications for Future
The Canadian food retail landscape will increasingly reflect its multicultural population, pushing for innovation in authenticity, product diversity, and transparency.
Consumer Trend
Growing demand for authentic international foods across mainstream grocery categories.
Consumer Sub-Trend
Halal foods and African, Korean, and Caribbean cuisines are gaining prominence.
Big Social Trend
Celebrating diversity through food in an increasingly multicultural society.
Local Trend
Immigrants seeking foods that reflect their cultural heritage.
Worldwide Social Trend
Global migration trends influence food choices, increasing demand for authentic, culturally relevant products.
Name of the Big Trend
"Global Palate Integration"
Name of Big Social Trend
"Multicultural Culinary Exploration"
Social Drive
A desire for connection, authenticity, and cultural representation in food.
Learnings for Companies to Use in 2025
Product Placement: Integrate international foods across regular grocery categories.
Expand Halal Offerings: Focus on convenience and transparency for halal shoppers.
Promote Authenticity: Use clear labeling, storytelling, and cultural context.
Strategy Recommendations for Companies to Follow in 2025
Invest in Cultural Research:
Understand local consumer preferences for international cuisines.
Integrate and Innovate:
Replace outdated international aisles with integrated placement.
Innovate with fusion products combining local and international flavors.
Build Trust:
Address consumer concerns about certification and authenticity.
Highlight Sustainability:
Emphasize clean, eco-friendly production for global cuisines.
Final Sentence (Key Concept)
Canada’s grocery retail sector is evolving to embrace multiculturalism by integrating globally inspired, authentic, and high-quality foods into mainstream shopping experiences.
What Brands & Companies Should Do in 2025
Focus Areas:
Emphasize authenticity and transparency in international food offerings.
Increase availability of halal and culturally relevant foods.
Execution:
Collaborate with international food producers to ensure authenticity.
Train staff on cultural sensitivity and the significance of diverse cuisines.
Use marketing to celebrate multiculturalism and highlight product stories.
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