Where Canadians are spending their dollars

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Consumer spending is on the rise.

Figures from the second quarter of the year point to a year-over-year uptick of just over 6%, according to a release about the MonerisMetrics Quarterly Report, while the increase builds upon the momentum of the two previous quarters’ growth. (Q1 saw an increase of just under 6%.)

The restaurant category saw nearly an 8% year-over-year increase overall, with QSRs specifically growing 12.5%, bars/pubs up 7% and dine-in restaurants at 5.5%. Home improvement also saw notable gains as a category with a 9.5% year-over-year boost, continuing the momentum of the previous quarter,  according to the release.

Retail sales climbed, with women’s accessories netting the biggest increase (10%) and pet stores growing 9%. Overall, apparel posted a 5% increase, with women’s clothing up 7.5%, sporting apparel at 4.5%, family clothing at 4% and men’s at 3%. Sporting goods yielded more modest growth (2.5%).

Across Canada, each province saw gains, with B.C. leading the pack at 9% for the second quarter in a row, with Ontario on its heels at 8% and New Brunswick at 6%. Bringing up the rear was Alberta (2%) and Quebec (3.5%).

Foreign credit card spending posted a 14% year-over-year increase, which is double the overall growth rate, according to the release.

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