BC residents are craving more face-to-face connection according to new survey

A new survey suggests Canadians are feeling increasingly disconnected in today’s digital world and many in BC are reconnecting over shared meals.

The survey, commissioned by Denny’s and conducted by Canadian research firm Leger, found that 85% of British Columbians believe sharing a meal is one of the best ways to connect with others.

Across the country, 87% of Canadians surveyed agreed that sitting down for a meal has become more important than ever as more of daily life moves online.

The report points to the decline of traditional “third places,” the casual community gathering spots outside of home and work where people once spent more time connecting face-to-face.

Restaurants, cafes and diners continue to fill some of that role, with 60% of Canadians saying they often turn to those spaces when looking for meaningful in-person connection.

The survey also found that 80% of Canadians feel genuine in-person connection is becoming harder to find, while 76% wish they had more time to spend with loved ones face-to-face.

More than half of British Columbians surveyed also said they wish there were more places in their communities where people could casually connect with others.

Beyond socializing, many respondents linked in-person connection to better mental health and overall wellbeing. Nearly one in five Canadians surveyed said spending time with others in person helps boost their mood and mental health.

For many on Vancouver Island, the findings may not come as much of a surprise.

Local diners and restaurants have long been gathering spots for everything from weekend breakfasts and coffee meetups to post-game meals and late-night conversations.

Greater Victoria currently has two Denny’s locations, including one on Douglas Street at the former Shark Club location and another in Colwood along Island Highway near Thetis Lake.

The online survey included 1,518 Canadians aged 18 and older and was conducted between April 1st and April 3rd. According to Leger, a probability sample of the same size would have a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.