More Canadians order food through delivery apps, rising to 27.4 per cent monthly from 20 per cent in 2020. CTV
More Canadians now rely on food delivery apps. A recent survey shows 27.4 per cent of Canadians order food through apps monthly. In 2020, only 20 per cent did. The rise highlights a growing love for quick, easy meals delivered to doorsteps.
Maritimes Lag Behind
The Maritime provinces show lower app usage. New Brunswick leads the region with 14.5 per cent of residents using delivery apps regularly. Nova Scotia follows at 12.6 per cent. Prince Edward Island trails with just 9.6 per cent. “I’m not sure these services are as developed as say in Quebec or Ontario or even in Alberta or B.C.,” said food expert Sylvain Charlebois. He points to higher food prices in the Atlantic. People there watch their budgets closely.
Cost Concerns Persist
Many Canadians avoid these apps due to high costs. The survey reveals 58 per cent either stopped using them or never started. Rising food prices make people think twice. Yet, some still choose convenience over savings. “Canadians are showing a willingness to spend more not for the food itself, but to save time and increase convenience,” the survey notes. Delivery offers a trade-off for busy lives.
Young Canadians Drive the Trend
Millennials and Gen Z lead the charge. The survey finds 38.6 per cent of millennials and 38.1 per cent of Gen Z use delivery apps regularly. “Younger Canadians, despite having less disposable income, are more willing to allocate funds to delivery. For them, the smartphone is practically an organic extension of daily life,” the survey explains. Students, especially, turn to apps. Balancing school, work, and social lives leaves little time for cooking.
Challenges for Newcomers
College and university students often use these apps. Many live away from home for the first time. Juggling classes and jobs feels overwhelming. Food delivery becomes a quick fix. Yet, this reliance raises concerns. “Food literacy is a big issue in Canada, so if you’re basically seeing your phone as a replacement to your kitchen, that’s a challenge,” Charlebois said. Learning to cook could save money and boost skills.
What’s Next?
The survey suggests delivery apps will keep growing. Canadians value time and ease. Younger generations, especially, see apps as part of daily life. But high costs may push some to cook at home. Businesses must balance affordability with convenience to keep users hooked.
