Restaurant closures in Canada are happening faster than forecast. Dr. Sylvain Charlebois projected a drop from 89,000 to 85,000 restaurants in 2026 and says the numbers coming from the sector confirm it is already underway.

The shift is driven by price sensitivity. A burger and fries at a quick service restaurant now runs around $20. The average household used to put 40 percent of its food budget toward restaurants. That number is now 36 percent. People are not stopping eating out, but they are stretching the dollar further and skipping the expensive wine and entrees when they do go.

The regional split is sharp. Alberta food service sales are up 13.7 percent year over year. Ontario is down 0.5 percent. Quebec is down 0.4 percent. Dr. Sylvain Charlebois calls these two different worlds in the same country. He also showed up at a restaurant with a physical coupon and was told the promotion ended the previous day.

Topics: restaurant closures Canada, food service Canada, QSR prices, Alberta Ontario food service gap, restaurant loyalty programs

GUEST: Dr. Sylvain Charlebois | @‌foodprofessor

Originally aired on 2026-05-07

Restaurant closures in Canada are happening faster than forecast. Dr. Sylvain Charlebois projected a drop from 89,000 to 85,000 restaurants in 2026 and says the numbers coming from the sector confirm it is already underway.
The shift is driven by price sensitivity. A burger and fries at a quick service restaurant now runs around $20. The average household used to put 40 percent of its food budget toward restaurants. That number is now 36 percent. People are not stopping eating out, but they are stretching the dollar further and skipping the expensive wine and entrees when they do go.
The regional split is sharp. Alberta food service sales are up 13.7 percent year over year. Ontario is down 0.5 percent. Quebec is down 0.4 percent. Dr. Sylvain Charlebois calls these two different worlds in the same country. He also showed up at a restaurant with a physical coupon and was told the promotion ended the previous day.
Topics: restaurant closures Canada, food service Canada, QSR prices, Alberta Ontario food service gap, restaurant loyalty programs
GUEST: Dr. Sylvain Charlebois | @&zwnj;foodprofessor
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-05-07

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Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.