‘Unlocking Potential: Driving Footfall in Canada’s On Premise’ is packed with insights into consumers’ behaviors and expectations, helping businesses find the right ways to influence their paths to purchase.
The research highlights the special role of bars and restaurants in Canadians’ lives. Two thirds (65%) agree that these places offer an atmosphere that they can’t replicate at home, and nearly as many (61%) think they play an important role in how they celebrate special moments.
Even more encouragingly, there are signs that On Premise spending is on the rise. Among those who have visited in the last month, nearly nine in ten are spending more (35%) or the same (51%) as they were a year ago, while only 15% are spending less. Guests’ satisfaction levels are increasing too.
The report’s deep dive into On Premise occasions reveals the big factors driving this spending in 2025—including food-led experiences, which continue to exceed drink-led visits across all age groups. There is much more analysis of occasionality, including the varying roles of planning and spontaneity in special celebrations, formal and casual meals, high tempo and relaxed drinks, and live sport.
The ‘Unlocking Potential’ report provides a wealth of clues to attracting spontaneous On Premise guests—including the 35% of consumers who don’t decide which category to drink before entering a venue.
Mitch Stefani, director – On Premise at CGA by NIQ, said: “The On Premise is a unique and irreplaceable setting where people come together to connect, celebrate and unwind. With consumers expressing the intent to increase their spending in the channel and prioritizing visits over other means of spending, it’s a landscape that is full of opportunities—For suppliers, it’s essential to stay right up to speed with consumers’ motivations and identify the right ways to influence trial, trade-up and loyalty, and our research provides the building blocks for winning strategies.”
The full ‘Unlocking Potential: Driving Footfall in Canada’s On Premise’ report is available now. It is part of CGA by NIQ’s suite of research solutions that help businesses exceed expectations, drive footfall and grasp the biggest growth opportunities in Canada’s On Premise. Additional capabilities include consumer segmentation, custom research, RFP support decks, bartender insights and optimum assortment tool. To discover more, contact the CGA by NIQ team or download the full report here.
