More than 6.4 million Canadians are already limiting the amount of meat they eat.
This shift in diets will open up opportunities for a whole new spectrum of plant-based alternatives and
Facts and figures
- There are approximately 10,820 specialist food stores across Canada
- 32% of Canadians have adopted special diets
- The average revenue of businesses in this sector is $606,700
- Canadians with annual incomes of more than $150,000 are twice as likely to have plant-based diets than those who earn less than $80,000 per annum
Overview
This shift in diets is making way for new meat-free trends, recipes
Food groups that many
Specialist food online
Many retail businesses choose to operate online to
Operating online allows you to work from home without the extra expense of commuting, paying electric bills or needing a large amount of savings for the initial set-up costs for the business.
It also allows you to trail out the market before you commit to renting or owning a commercial premise. You will need to have adequate storage space at your home to buy and stock items in bulk to avoid missing out on better prices.
You will also have to research what items are restricted; fish, game, meat, fruit, vegetables or other perishable items must be properly prepared and meet the mailing requirements set out by Canada Post.
Diversifying in specialist food
Creating a niche for your
Perhaps you have a huge variety of infused olive oils or maybe you have an organic smoked meats counter, whatever your unique
Buying an existing business
Buying an established specialist food business can be a much quicker route into the sector as opposed to setting up shop from scratch.
Find out what type of reputation the business has within the community and with the current suppliers; if the business is run down and has a bad reputation, you should consider the time and money you would need in rebranding the store.
When taking over an existing specialist food business, also consider how much of the stock they are currently selling you would want to adapt or change and ensure that any changes you would make won’t tarnish the business’ reputation.