In this new edition of Fast Delivery, let us present good news for foodies from Rimouski and another for all restaurants in the province. Finally, we will introduce you to a restaurant serving a typical Italian dish that you will not find anywhere else!

Let's start with this good news from Bas-Saint-Laurent. In fact, street food will finally be possible in Rimouski, which is good news for the population and restaurants in the region. From June 9, restaurants in Rimouski will be able to apply for a permit to install food trucks, but only businesses with a physical presence will be able to do so. Restaurant owners outside Rimouski will only need to apply for a permit for specific events in the city. The next major events in Rimouski are Les Grandes Fêtes Telus in August and Festi Jazz in September 2023. The City of Rimouski will favor local businesses already established to support the local economy.

Specific locations have been chosen by the city for the installation of food trucks, such as near the Théâtre du Bic and the Émile-Gagnon Library. Visitors to Rimouski this summer are strongly encouraged to try the food trucks to discover new local restaurateurs.

Second, did you know that consumers are going out to restaurants more despite inflation? Thus, it gives hope to the restaurant industry after the difficulties encountered during the pandemic. According to a report by Circana, restaurant visits increased by 11% and spending by 18% in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period the previous year. Full-service establishments saw the strongest growth in traffic with a 24% increase, while quick-service restaurants continued to dominate with a 67% share of visits. Lunches and morning snacks saw significant growth, while lunchtime and evening visits also increased.

Statistics Canada also reported that foodservice's percentage of total food sales had returned to pre-pandemic levels, suggesting a return to pre-pandemic habits. Although retail food sales are down, catering remains a key sector of the economy. However, despite the positive data, the sector employs around 100,000 fewer employees than before the pandemic. Consumers seem to be going out to restaurants to escape inflation and regain some normality.

Finally, we invite you to meet Sophie Bernier and her Italian spouse, Claudio Bettiga, who opened the Comptoir La Piadina in Sainte-Foy and who offer piadinas, or Italian sandwiches. Piadina is a flatbread resembling yeast-free pizza dough, filled with delicious Italian toppings and folded in half to enjoy. The classic sandwich contains prosciutto di Parma, mozzarella fior di latte, arugula, fresh tomatoes and olive oil. Value for money is excellent, with sandwiches between $11 and $13. Sophie wants to make the piadina known in Quebec and plans to make it a franchise chain. Despite the difficulties encountered due to the pandemic, Comptoir La Piadina has overcome the obstacles and offers freshly prepared piadinas every day.