Job prospects Attendant, Cafeteria-buffet in the Montréal Region

Over the past few years (2021-2023), there was a labour shortage for Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in the Montréal Region. There were more job openings than workers available to fill them in this occupation.

Source Labour Market Information | Recent Trends Methodology

The employment outlook will be limited for Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations (NOC 65201) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal for the 2024-2026 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

• Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.
• Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
• There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Employment dynamics in this occupation depend on trends influencing the food service sector, in particular fast food, where the majority of jobs in this occupational group are located. This industry is characterized by a competitive business environment and low profit margins, resulting in high turnover.

Despite rising household incomes, the uncertain economic climate could have a greater impact on the food service sector. Consumers may be inclined to cut back on non-essential spending and look for more affordable options. This trend could favour fast food and takeaways, which offer cheaper meals, to the detriment of sit-down restaurants. 

In addition, population aging, the increase in the number of single-person households and better tourism opportunities in Quebec could be favourable.

On the other hand, increased use of kiosks and mobile applications could reduce demand for counter services.

Finally, although certain factors are likely to boost employment slightly, they will not be enough to offset the impact of other factors influencing the profession.

Here are some key facts about Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations in the census metropolitan area of Montréal:

• Approximately 43,930 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

Source Labour Market Information | Prospects Methodology