By Jim Simmons

This research letter discusses the long-term implications of the aging population of Canada on commercial activities.  Using the City of Victoria in British Columbia as an example of 'the future of Canada', the letter provides data on the significant changes in the demographic composition of markets that are projected across Canada over the next two decades.  It marks the first CSCA research letter in what no doubt will be a number of CSCA publications over the next few years that focus on the changing age profile of Canadian consumers.  The letter outlines a future where an increasing proportion of consumers will be over sixty five years of age.  It provides data on what this will mean in terms of income and consumption patterns, and discuss some of the possible impacts on how and where consumers are likely to shop.