A new study finds most Canadians would prefer to buy local products when they shop for groceries. What is more, a BMO Capital Markets survey finds those consumers are willing to pay a premium to purchase local foods. It found Canadian consumers are willing to pay 16% more for domestic fruits and vegetables, and 19% more for Canadian meat products.
While environmental or even safety concerns would seem to be the top reason for opting for locally grown and raised products, the BMO study finds those concerns are the foremost worry only for 14% and 10% of respondents, respectively. More than a quarter (28%) noted they would buy Canadian goods when grocery shopping to “support Canadian producers.” Some 9% recognized food safety as the utmost reason for shopping local.