Jun 24, 2025
So far, 2025 has brought with it an outsized serving of economic uncertainty and turmoil. However, one aspect of Canada’s immediate economic future that doesn’t seem to be in doubt is its citizens’ support of local business. A recent survey from TD Bank Group found 89% of Canadians feel its important to support the domestic economy this summer, with 64% planning to travel within Canada in the coming months.
"It's encouraging to hear that Canadians are planning to support local small businesses as part of their vacation plans this summer, as it helps both entrepreneurs and our local economies," Julia Kelly, vice-president of small business banking at TD, said in a statement.
"It's particularly welcome news, as many of our small business customers have been concerned about consumer spending slowing down."
Canadians approach to local tourism
Canadians are doing their homework before hitting the road. According to a recent survey, 63% say they research shops, restaurants and attractions before they travel. Even more compelling, nearly three-quarters (73%) admit they're willing to travel specifically to visit a unique business or attraction they discovered during their search.
This growing appetite for meaningful, well-planned experiences is good news for the tourism industry. TD Economics projects that tourism will outpace most other sectors in Canada this year, driven by a surge in local spending as Canadians choose to explore their own backyard. At the same time, international visitors are eyeing Canada and its diverse regions as prime summer destinations, fueling what’s shaping up to be a standout season for the travel and hospitality industries.
Must Read
- Stop the leak: 5 costs Canadians (still) overpay for every single month. How many are sabotaging your 2026 budget?
- What's your worth? Here are the 3 net worth milestones that change everything for Canadians (and what they say about you)
- Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich — and that ‘anyone’ can do it
Cottage country
Cottage country remains a top draw for younger Canadians this summer, with 46% of Gen Z and 42% of Millennials planning a getaway to the lake. But it’s not just about relaxing by the water. These travellers are also looking to engage with the communities they visit. Among those heading to cottages, 96% say they plan to explore and support local businesses, including restaurants, shops and marinas.
This trend highlights a growing desire for authentic, local experiences, and it’s good news for small business owners in seasonal destinations, where summer visitors can provide a crucial boost to the local economy.
Survey methodology
The survey was undertaken by The Harris Poll Canada and it ran overnight on May 22nd, with 1,531 randomly selected Canadian adults who are Maru Voice Canada online panellists. The results have been weighted by age, gender, region and education (and in Quebec, language).
You May Also Like
- Here’s how to retire in 10 short years no matter where you live in Canada — even if you’re starting with $0 savings
- If you’re still feeling the pinch this month — don’t panic. Here are 5 easy ways to fix your finances without a total overhaul
- How Warren Buffett’s simple buy-and-hold real estate approach offers a lesson for Canadian homeowners and long-term investors
- Approaching retirement with no savings? Don’t panic, you're not alone. Here are easy ways you can catch up (and fast)
Nicholas completed his master's in journalism and communications at Western University. Since then, he's worked as a reporter at the Financial Post, Healthing.ca, Sustainable Biz Canada and more. Aside from reporting, he also has experience in web production, social media management, photography and video production. His work can also be found in the Toronto Star, Yahoo Finance Canada, Electric Autonomy Canada and Exclaim among others.
Managing Money • Mar 06
