Topline: Price is a barrier for Ontarians when it comes to buying local

While the majority (85%) of Ontarians would like to shop more for local products, nearly two-thirds (65%) consider them to be too expensive, according to a recent survey from Metro’s discount banner Food Basics.

Conducted by: Phase5 on behalf of Food Basics.

Methodology: An online survey conducted from June 7 to June 10 of 1,600 Ontarians.

Key findings:

• 85% expressed a willingness to buy more local products if there was a bigger selection
• 50% of consumers believe they may have to go out of their way to get local products 
• Seventy-seven per cent would shop local more if the products were available closer to where they live 
• One in three (32%) Ontarians do not know where to shop for local produce and products

“Sixty-four per cent of consumers would be more willing to shop local if there was a smaller price tag. At Food Basics, our customers can save money on groceries compared to conventional supermarkets so they can be assured that we sell Local for Less,” said Paul Bravi, senior vice-president, Food Basics, in a press release.