The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the Canadian restaurant industry, cutting sales by nearly 50 per cent over last year.
Extended shutdowns followed by public health measures that reduced capacity have resulted in job losses across the country.
Luc Erjavec is vice-president with Restaurants Canada for the Atlantic region. He says recovery is uncertain and the effects will continue to be felt for years to come.

(Background image)bloomsburys / CC
Restaurants Canada’s Food Service Facts Report shows 47 per cent of restaurants are operating at a loss, 24 per cent are breaking even, while only a handful are making money.
Erjavec says outdoor patios, which have proven to be successful for many businesses, will start to close as the weather gets colder, leaving many operators questioning what will happen next.