Canadians increasingly buy ready-made meals for affordability

Grocery stores in Canada are expanding their ready-made meal options as shoppers seek convenience amid rising costs. This shift includes a wider variety of dishes, such as sushi and jerk chicken, appealing to budget-conscious consumers. Sales of ready-made meals have increased, with 92% of Canadians purchasing them in the past year. Consumers find these meals more affordable than dining out, spending an average of $8.55 per meal. Grocers like Sobeys and Loblaw are investing in centralized kitchens to improve meal quality and variety. This trend helps differentiate full-service stores from discount retailers, which offer fewer ready-made options.