As the year begins, inflation continues to influence the purchasing habits of Canadian households. In grocery stores, rising food prices remain one of their main concerns and guide many day‑to‑day decisions. To better understand these trends, here are some findings from Agropur’s Consumer Insights team, based on their research and market analyses. Their insights show that despite the current economic climate, dairy products continue to stand out. 

The Economic Context Remains Top of Mind 

Survey data reveals a clear decline in consumer confidence, largely due to the financial pressures households are facing. Forty‑eight percent of respondents say they are concerned about their personal finances and the cost of living. Political and socio‑economic issues come next, representing 22% of responses, an increase of 12 points compared with 2024. (Source: Agropur Annual Study, Léger, 2025) 

The Growing Appeal of Private‑Label Brands 

Households are feeling the pressure, with six in 10 Canadians worried they may no longer be able to cover all their essential needs, including food and housing. Discount banners such as Maxi, Walmart and No Frills continue to gain ground, now capturing 60% of total volume in major retail channels. (Source: NIQ, Total tracked sales, 2025)

At the same time, private‑label brands* continue their upward trend. No less than 34% of consumers plan to buy more of them in the coming year, often at the expense of national brands**. (Source: Agropur Annual Study, Léger, 2025) 

Dairy Products Remain a Priority 

Nearly 72% of consumers plan to reduce certain expenses, including restaurant outings, leisure activities and clothing. One in three Canadians also expects to cut back on their grocery budget. (Source: Canada Omnibus, Circana, July 2025)

Despite these adjustments, dairy products remain largely protected from budget cuts. Their importance in everyday life continues to grow: nearly 70% of respondents consider daily dairy consumption to be essential, up significantly from 2021, when that share was 56%. Overall dairy consumption is showing slight growth, driven mainly by value‑added milk—such as lactose‑free or protein‑enriched varieties. Cheese and butter also maintain strong performance, while plant‑based alternatives have declined by 12% compared with 2022. (Source: NIQ, National GB+DR+MM, Monthly tonnage) 

_{*National brands are owned by manufacturers or processors and are designed to be distributed widely across several retail chains. Example: Agropur’s Natrel brand.}

_{** Private‑label brands, on the other hand, are owned by retailers and available exclusively in their stores. Example: Sobeys’ Compliments brand.}