2025 in review: Key spending trends and insights for Canadian businesses

2025 was a year of contrasts for Canadian businesses. Consumer behaviour shifted under economic pressure, yet major events and seasonal peaks created strong opportunities. Moneris tracked these changes to help businesses understand where demand surged and where caution prevailed. From new legislation to sports-driven spending spikes and evolving holiday shopping patterns, 2025 revealed clear signals about how Canadians are choosing to spend. Here is what shaped the year and what it means for your strategy moving forward.

Introduction of Bill 72 in Quebec

Bill 72 introduced significant changes to Quebec’s Consumer Protection Act, affecting pricing transparency, tipping practices and credit agreements. Businesses must now clearly display grocery prices, including taxes and unit pricing, to ensure consumers have accurate information. The suggested tips on payment terminals must be calculated on pre-tax amounts and presented neutrally to avoid influencing choices. The law also enforces price accuracy at checkout, requiring merchants to compensate customers when scanned prices exceed posted prices. Credit agreements now demand stricter disclosures and adherence to consumer-recommended limits. These changes require businesses to review payment systems, update pricing displays, and ensure compliance with credit-related obligations. These updates push businesses to review payment systems, refresh pricing displays and ensure operational compliance across all customer touchpoints.

Read the full blog: Everything you need to know about Bill 72 in Quebec

Moneris data for NHL playoffs 2025

The NHL playoffs continued to drive strong economic activity in Canadian cities. Spending near arenas surged during high-stakes games, with Edmonton’s ICE District seeing increases of more than 200 per cent during the Stanley Cup Finals. Toronto also recorded triple-digit gains near Scotiabank Arena during elimination games. These spikes highlight the importance of aligning staffing, inventory, and marketing with major sporting events. Businesses that anticipate these surges can capture significant revenue by offering timely promotions and ensuring operational readiness.

Read the full blog: Moneris data for NHL playoffs 2025

Domestic tourism on the rise in Canada

Domestic travel gained momentum in 2025 as Canadians shifted away from cross-border trips. Moneris data shows interprovincial spending rose 5 per cent in the first half of the year, with Alberta and the Territories leading growth. Transaction counts also increased, indicating more frequent trips rather than isolated big-ticket purchases. Survey results revealed that more than a quarter of Canadians cancelled or postponed U.S. travel, reinforcing the trend toward local experiences. Businesses in hospitality and attractions should focus on regional marketing, flexible payment options, and digital visibility to capture this growing segment.

Read the full blog: Domestic tourism is on a rise in Canada

Moneris data for the Jays 2025 games

Baseball delivered strong spending gains during the Jays’ playoff run. Downtown Toronto saw transaction volumes rise by double digits during ALDS and ALCS games, with basket sizes growing as fans spent more per visit. The World Series amplified this trend, driving increases of more than 25 per cent near Rogers Centre. These insights show how live sports create concentrated demand in surrounding areas. Restaurants and retailers should leverage game schedules for promotions and ensure that their staffing and supply chains are prepared for potential surges.

Read the full blog: Moneris data for the Jays 2025 games

Black Friday spending jumped 25 per cent despite cautious holiday trends

Holiday shopping in 2025 reflected caution but also revealed opportunities. Moneris data showed Black Friday transaction volumes rose 25 per cent week over week, and average basket size grew 14 per cent as shoppers bundled purchases and sought value. Yet overall holiday spending declined year over year, with 43 per cent of Canadians planning to spend less. Alberta led cutbacks, while Ontario showed signs of stability. These findings suggest businesses should focus on clear value propositions, bundled deals and readiness for concentrated demand during peak shopping days. Optimizing both online and in-store experiences remains critical as consumers balance restraint with strategic spending.

Read the full blog: Moneris data for Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2025

Looking ahead to 2026

The past year underscores a clear message: consumers are selective but responsive to value and experience. Sports and tourism will continue to drive local economic activity, while holiday shopping will remain focused on price and convenience. Businesses that use data to anticipate demand, optimize operations, and build loyalty will be better positioned for growth in 2026.

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