CFA Award Winners



The Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) has always upheld the importance of fostering tightly knit relationships between franchisors and their franchisees. For 32 years, the Association has celebrated this synergy by highlighting exceptional franchise systems that live up to our collective value of Growing Together ® with the CFA Awards of Excellence.
This year’s winners span a number of franchise sectors, from education to foodservice to home repair, but they all share a common goal: to educate Canadians that franchising is a worthwhile and effective way in which to own your own business. From our Franchisee of the Year award winners to the recipients of our CFA Recognition Awards, we celebrate the brands and their champions that have walked the walk when it comes to franchise excellence. We also take the time to recognize
those brands that have reached significant Membership Milestones with the CFA, as well as those that have received kudos from their location owners through the Franchisees’ Choice Designation. All these accolades are testament to the commitment of these brands to the mission and standards of the CFA, at every level of their organization.
Help us celebrate the winners of the 2024 CFA Awards in this special franchise focus. These winning franchises, from new and emerging to established household names, have provided high-quality service and immense, consistent support to their franchisees, in addition to going above and beyond in often imaginative and immersive ways. Read on to learn more about these award-winning brands and how they achieved the highest honour in Canadian franchising.
With over 30 years of experience, our proven no-appointment, inclusive and affordable, fixed-price model lets you own a successful salon without being a hairstylist, and helps address a much needed gap in the Canadian market that is looking to be filled.
Benefit from comprehensive training, innovative digital tools, and a supportive community of over 220 salons globally.
Secure your Just Cuts location and enjoy an all-expenses-paid trip to Australia for training! Take advantage of this limited-time offer: We will fly you to our beautiful head office in Cronulla, Sydney, by the beach for comprehensive training. All flights, accommodation, and training costs are covered by Just Cuts.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to join our successful franchise family and receive topnotch training in an incredible setting!
The Canadian Franchise Association announces the 2024 Franchisees’ Choice Designees
Take a look at the brands on the following pages. Though you may not initially see a pattern, they all have some very important characteristics in common. Hailing from a variety of sectors and areas of the country—and sometimes even the world—these franchise systems have been highly ranked by their franchisees, making them worthy of the Franchisees’ Choice Designation.
These Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) member brands voluntarily took part in an independently administered survey of their franchisees, who rated the company in key areas of the franchise business model. These areas include franchisor leadership, business planning and marketing, training and support, ongoing operations, and the strength of the franchisor-franchisee relationship.
“By recognizing our Franchisees’ Choice Designees, we honour the fundamental principle of franchising: collaborating in synergy, achieving mutual success, and thriving together,” says Sherry McNeil, president and CEO of the CFA. “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year’s Franchisees’ Choice Designees for earning the trust and admiration of their franchisees through their exceptional efforts and commitment.”
In the due diligence process of investigating a franchise opportunity, speaking with existing franchisees about the opportunity being explored is essential. For prospective franchisees, the Franchisees’ Choice designation identifies that a franchise brand has received solid endorsement and ratings from its franchisees in areas such as:
• Franchisee selection process
• Franchise information package
• Leadership
• Training and support
• Operations and improvements
• Franchisor-franchisee relations
Regardless of any awards or recognitions a franchise system may receive, CFA and Franchise Canada strongly recommend that prospective franchisees conduct thorough due diligence to help ensure that a franchise is the right fit for them.
Find out more about the Franchisees’ Choice Designation and this year’s recipients at https://cfa.ca/blog/2024-franchisees-choice-designation/
THE FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE LOGO Franchisees’ Choice winners receive a special logo to identify them as having achieved high rankings in franchisee satisfaction. As you explore franchise opportunities as part of your due diligence process, be on the lookout for this logo to discover the franchise systems that have been recognized for placing an emphasis on building first-class relationships with their franchisees.
As a growing $29 billion industry, signage and graphics will be in demand as long as businesses need to be seen. FASTSIGNS® will be there to create captivating, high performing visuals for businesses around the world.
• Over 775 locations in 9 countries
• Business-to-Business hours
• Low staffing requirement
• Professional business clientele
• Seeking Domestic & International Franchisees
• 50% Off Franchise Fee for Veterans and First Responders
"We’ve had a great experience with FASTSIGNS. They are really excellent, and if I were to go back, I’d do everything the same way. If you’re willing to work hard and stay focused, FASTSIGNS can open many doors."
(in alphabetical order)
A number of franchises have earned the Franchisees’ Choice Designation multiple years in a row, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to franchise excellence and strong franchisor-franchisee relations. In recognition of their achievement, the CFA has created special logos that these franchise systems can use to display their consistently high scores from their franchisees.
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 14-YEAR DESIGNEES ARE:
• CertaPro Painters
• COBS Bread
• Edo Japan
• Mary Brown’s Chicken
• Pizza Nova
• PropertyGuys.com
• Symposium Cafe Restaurant & Lounge
• TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Canada
• UCMAS Canada
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 13-YEAR DESIGNEE IS:
• PuroClean
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 12-YEAR DESIGNEES ARE:
• FASTSIGNS International
• SpeedPro Canada
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 11-YEAR DESIGNEES ARE:
• BeaverTails
• Fire-Alert Franchising Ltd.
• Pizza Pizza
• Print Three Franchising Corporation
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 10-YEAR DESIGNEE IS:
• A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 9-YEAR DESIGNEES ARE:
• Hickory Dickory Decks
• Scholars
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 8-YEAR DESIGNEES ARE:
• Driverseat
• Triple O’s
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 7-YEAR DESIGNEES ARE:
• Inspiration Learning CenterTutoring and Private School
• Oxford Learning Centres
• Paul Davis Restoration
• Right at Home Canada
• Wendy’s Restaurants of Canada Inc.
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 6-YEAR DESIGNEES ARE:
• Jani-King Canada
• WP Creations LifeCasting & Jewelry Studios
THE 2024 FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE 5-YEAR DESIGNEES ARE:
• Massage Addict
• MaxWell Realty Inc.
• Prep’n Sell
• Quesada Burritos & Tacos
• Willowbrae Academy
Jennifer Harrison Owner, Jensen Lakes Studio
The highest standard of franchising excellence in Canada, the CFA Awards of Excellence recognize franchise brands that have demonstrated superior franchise relations, leadership, business planning, marketing, training and support, ongoing operations, and communications in the Traditional Franchise and Non-Traditional Franchise categories.
Learn more about our Grand Prize winners by turning to page 20.
GRAND PRIZE WINNER TRADITIONAL FRANCHISE
Willowbrae Academy
GRAND PRIZE WINNER NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISE
MaidPro
NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 6-15 FRANCHISEES
GOLD MaidPro
SILVER Wise Cracks
BRONZE Prep’n Sell
NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 16-29 FRANCHISEES
GOLD EverLine Coatings and Services
SILVER TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Canada
BRONZE CertaPro Painters
NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 30+ FRANCHISEES
GOLD New Creations
SILVER Paul Davis Restoration BRONZE Right at Home Canada
TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 6-15 FRANCHISEES
GOLD Inspiration Learning Center –Tutoring And Private School
SILVER Megamind Learning Centre
BRONZE UROSPOT
TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 16-29 FRANCHISEES
GOLD Willowbrae Academy
SILVER MaxWell Realty Inc.
BRONZE Symposium Cafe Restaurant & Lounge
TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 30-99 FRANCHISEES
GOLD Triple O’s
SILVER Print Three Franchising Corporation
BRONZE Edo Japan
TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 100+ FRANCHISEES
GOLD Pizza Nova
SILVER A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.
BRONZE Mary Brown’s Chicken
Are you looking to partner with a top franchise that’s committed to your success? If so, you’re in the right place!
Find the full list of winners at cfa.ca/ lookforafranchise/ top-franchises/
The CFA Franchisee of the Year Award is presented to franchisees who have demonstrated an overall star quality within their franchise. Awards are presented to Gold, Silver, and Bronze franchisees in the Traditional category (brick and mortar locations) and in the Non-Traditional category (mobile or home-based franchises), all of whom have been franchising with their brand for at least two years. Want to know more about these award winners? Read their franchise journey stories on page 13.
TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES
GOLD
Alicia Baker, DermaEnvy Skincare
SILVER
Neelam Bandali, Kumon Math & Reading Centres
BRONZE Wanda and Lawson MacEachern, Hallmark
NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES
GOLD
Candice Parent, MOLLY MAID Canada
SILVER
Justin Callon, Andrew Jackson, and Billy Van Wyck, ServiceMaster Restore of Niagara
BRONZE Kristelle Campbell, PropertyGuys.com
Join an award-winning franchise that has been rated one of Canada’s best by its franchisees. for an eleventh consecutive year. Print Three Canada thanks you for rating us highly for our leadership, business planning and marketing, training and support, ongoing operations, and the relationships we’ve built with our franchisees. We are proud to receive thess honours from our very own franchisees: together we are successful because of your hard work and dedication!
Every time a franchise joins and renews its CFA membership, it amplifies the voice of the collective and commits to excellence in franchising. And membership helps the CFA represent more than 550 corporate members from coast to coast as the authoritative voice of franchising. Membership milestone achievements honour members for their ongoing commitment to the CFA’s pursuit of strengthening franchising in Canada. Congratulations and thank you to the following members, who are celebrating membership milestones in 2024!
35 YEAR MILESTONES
• Dentons Canada LLP
• M&M Food Market
• Sotos LLP
• TD Canada Trust
• Witten LLP
25 YEAR MILESTONES
• Academy for Mathematics & English
• Alepin Gauthier Avocats
• Gowling WLG
• Medicine Shoppe Canada
• Mr. Lube Canada
• Print Three Franchising Corporation
• Ricky’s All Day Grill
30 YEAR MILESTONES
• Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
• Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP
• FASTSIGNS International
20 YEAR MILESTONES
• Canadian School of Natural Nutrition
• Comfort Keepers
• Jones & Co.
• McKenzie Lake Lawyers LLP
• Panago Pizza Inc.
15 YEAR MILESTONES
• Beyond Digital Imaging
• Crepe Delicious
• Fire-Alert Franchising Ltd.
• Heart To Home Meals
• McInnes Cooper
• Premier Printing Limited
• Presse Café
• Robins Appleby LLP
• Smoke’s Poutinerie
• Telpay Inc.
• UCMAS Canada
10 YEAR MILESTONES
• 9Round Franchising of Canada, Inc.
• Bloomtools Canada Inc.
• Econolease Financial Services
• Oxygen Yoga & Fitness
• Prep’n Sell
5 YEAR MILESTONES
• Aisle 24
• Angus Valley Montessori Schools
• Au Pain Doré
• DermaEnvy Skincare
• MaxWell Realty Inc.
• MBH & Associates, Ltd.
• MFV Expositions
• MODERN Canada
• New Creations
• ONESource Moving Solutions
• PiinPoint
• PIRTEK CANADA
• Plan A Long Term Care Staffing & Recruitment
• Prairie Donair
• Transition Squad Downsizing Services
• Trapped Canada
• We Wash Windows
• Yum! Brands
The CFA’s Recognition Awards celebrate individuals and franchise systems for their outstanding achievements, contributions, and philanthropic endeavours in the franchise community.
Recognizes a person or company for their efforts and contributions in supporting the Canadian Franchise Association and the franchise industry at large.
Recognizes a company or individual for extraordinary leadership and contribution toward improving and promoting diversity and inclusion within their workplace and the franchise community in Canada.
Since joining the CFA in 1980, RBC has been an active participant in various CFA committees, including the National Convention Program Committee, the Franchise Support Services/ Supplier (FSS) Committee, and other educational programming committees. The organization’s involvement in these committees has demonstrated its commitment to advancing the CFA and the Canadian franchise industry at large.
Representatives from RBC regularly speak at CFA events and franchise tradeshows. They have also assisted many CFA members in navigating the franchise financing process, providing expertise in the areas of franchise funding and government programs available to both franchisors and franchisees.
RBC’s support of the CFA’s Franchise Your Business webinar series has been invaluable, providing aspiring franchisors with necessary information on business funding and the knowledge to become successful.
RBC’s involvement during the COVID-19 pandemic was instrumental in supporting the franchise industry. Following the pandemic, RBC representatives have been a wealth of help to the CFA membership, thoroughly explaining government programs such as the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) program.
For years, Megha Karia, CEO of UCMAS Canada, has focused on helping new immigrants be their own boss and find success in Canada. Megha has also been a champion of promoting women in business, encouraging them to be financially independent and to tap their full potential.
Almost 100 per cent of UCMAS’s franchisees are immigrants from 20 different countries, and nearly 70 per cent of UCMAS franchise owners are women. Furthermore, Megha has run the entire network of close to 90 UCMAS centres across Canada through her head office team, half of whom are women. Over the years, Megha has been instrumental in changing the lives of nearly 700 women by encouraging them to become course instructors at UCMAS centres across Canada. Megha’s actions illustrate her belief that women and immigrants in Canada are in need of additional support, and by dedicating her career to champion these workers, Megha has helped lead UCMAS in its goal of uplifting Canadians from all backgrounds.
Presented to a franchise company in recognition of outstanding performance over a significant period of time, high brand recognition, and solid business performance.
The brand’s story began in 1965 when 17-year-old Fred DeLuca asked his family friend, Dr. Peter Buck, a nuclear physicist, for advice on how to pay his college tuition. With an idea to open a submarine sandwich shop and an initial $1,000 investment from Dr. Buck, the two formed a business partnership that would ultimately change the landscape of the quick service restaurant industry. The partners opened their first restaurant in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in August of 1965, where they served freshly made, customizable, and affordable sandwiches to local guests.
Today, Subway has grown to become one of the world’s largest restaurant brands, serving its signature sandwiches, wraps, and salads to millions of guests every day, across more than 100 countries, in more than 37,000 restaurants. Subway restaurants are owned and operated by a franchisee network that includes more than 20,000 dedicated entrepreneurs and small business owners who are all committed to delivering the best guest experience possible in their local communities. The first Canadian Subway restaurant opened its doors in 1986 in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and there are now more than 2,800 restaurants in Canada.
This award recognizes a franchisor, franchisee, or support services provider who demonstrates exceptional achievement and contribution to Canadian franchising and the community at large throughout one’s lifetime and career in franchising.
Ryan Smolkin, founder and CEO (chief entertainment officer) of Smoke’s Poutinerie, passed away on Sunday, October 29, 2023. Ryan was an active CFA volunteer and shared his knowledge, best practices, and expertise as a speaker at many CFA events. As the passionate, gregarious, and highly recognizable leader of Smoke’s Poutinerie, Ryan made a tremendous impact on the CFA community and everyone he met.
Throughout his career, Ryan mentored many new and emerging brands in the CFA community, helping others achieve the success that he experienced. His actions, especially through his innovative marketing endeavours, benefitted the brands he worked with while highlighting the opportunities available within the franchising landscape at a national level.
“Ryan was a pillar of the CFA franchise community: an entrepreneur, franchisor, brand builder, and advocate for franchising,” says Sherry McNeil, CFA president and CEO.
In 2016, Ryan created the World Poutine Eating Championship (WPEC) in support of We Care, an organization dedicated to sending kids with disabilities to fully accessible camps throughout Canada. The annual event also includes the CEO Challenge, which sees executives from across Canada compete in a poutine eating content. Ryan became a director of the We Care board in 2018, and in his memory the event will be known as The Ryan Smolkin CEO Challenge in Support of We Care.
Given to a franchise system that has demonstrated genuine and ongoing concern and support for a community or social service group(s), based on their philanthropic innovation, support, and impact to the community whether on a local, regional, national or global scale.
Osmow’s Shawarma was founded in 2001 with one location in Streetsville, Ontario. Since then, it has grown to more than 145 locations in major provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec, and is expanding into new provinces this year. The company has also begun expansion into the U.S., with its first location opening in Miami, Florida, in 2022 and additional rollouts planned for this year. As the largest Middle Eastern brand in North America, innovation continues to be Osmow’s driving force, and its team continues to ideate and release new products that attract a wider audience and gain market share.
In 2020, the Osmow’s Hope Fund was created to help impoverished communities both locally and abroad. The initiative’s work has included providing funds to homeless shelters and food banks throughout the Greater Toronto Area and other regions. International efforts have included partnerships with charities in Zambia, India, and Pakistan.
Through its charitable efforts (resulting in over $500,000 in donations and food), Osmow’s has been able to feed more than 3,000 children daily in places of learning, and the corporation has matched funds raised at the restaurant level.
In the spirit of passion for franchising and the Association, this award is given to an individual who, through their volunteer activities and work as an ambassador for franchising, helps the CFA grow, evolve, and deliver on its Purpose and Mission.
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP joined the CFA in 1997. Over the past two decades, Larry Weinberg has been an active participant in various CFA committees, including the CFA Board of Directors, CFA Franchise Law Day Committee, Legal & Legislative Affairs Committee, National Convention Program Committee, Nominating Committee, B.C. Labour Relations Board Committee, the Changing Workplaces Review Task Force, and the Education Advisory Committee, and has spearheaded innumerable subcommittees and task forces supporting the CFA’s advocacy and government relations on behalf of the Canadian franchise community. Larry’s involvement in these committees has demonstrated his commitment to advancing the CFA and the Canadian franchise industry at large. In addition, Larry’s support of the CFA’s Franchise Your Business webinar series has been invaluable, providing aspiring franchisors with the necessary tools and knowledge to become successful.
Cassels Brock & Blackwell, Larry’s franchise group, has also contributed significantly to the CFA’s educational programming, with staff regularly speaking at events and contributing articles to the CFA’s publications. The group has assisted many CFA members in navigating the franchising process, providing expertise in disclosure documents, franchise agreements, trademarks, and more. Cassels Brock & Blackwell also supports the CFA’s programming yearround as a CFA National Sponsor.
For his tireless work, commitment to the industry, encouragement of his team to participate in industry matters, and dedication to volunteer leadership, Larry is a deserving recipient of the Volunteer Leadership Excellence Award.
As the leading sign, graphics, and visual communications organization in North America backed by nearly 40 years of industry experience, FASTSIGNS International Inc. is a top choice for aspiring Canadian entrepreneurs eager to launch a successful business. With over 770 independently owned and operated sign shops in 10 countries, the brand is set to continue its growth trajectory across Canada, offering a range of business opportunities including cobrands and conversions.
The comprehensive suite of tools FASTSIGNS provides its franchisees, from strategic direction to marketing, vendor relations, technology, and more, has fuelled remarkable growth for franchisees at every FASTSIGNS location worldwide. FASTSIGNS offers effective training, support
from the brand’s extensive network, and a mutually beneficial structure, emphasizing dedication to growing franchisee profitability. Additionally, the brand creates opportunities for veterans and first responders, offering incentives including an impressive 50 per cent franchise fee reduction and serving as a member of the International Franchise Association’s VetFran program.
“When I first moved to Canada, I decided that I wanted to be in charge of my own destiny and work for myself,” says Jose Azavedo, FASTSIGNS franchisee of South Mississauga/Oakville, Ontario. “Being new to the area, I needed an established franchisor to guide and support my entrepreneurship, and FASTSIGNS stood out for its professionalism and ability to aid my business’ growth.”
FASTSIGNS consistently earns recognition for franchisee satisfaction, including several top honours in 2024. Ranked number one in its category on Entrepreneur ’s competitive Franchise 500 ® List for the eighth consecutive year and named a Bestin-Category Franchise by Franchise Business Review for the sixth consecutive year, FASTSIGNS continues to lead the industry. As the brand expands its footprint in Canada, it also received CFA’s Franchisees’ Choice Designation for the 12th consecutive year. ■
For information about FASTSIGNS franchise opportunities in Canada, contact Mark Jameson at mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679, or visit www.fastsigns.com.
As a Just Cuts multi-salon owner who has purchased five salons in five years across Australia since 2018, Anthony Belcher says working on your business, not in it, and embracing franchisor support is key.
After selling his previous franchise business, Belcher wondered why multi-unit owners seemed so much more excited and satisfied with their businesses when they’d surely have much less time to spend.
“The technology we have as Just Cuts owners means we can work from anywhere, because you can run your business completely digitally,”
says Belcher. “It feels a bit selfish to say but I love how autonomous my work-life balance is now. I still have the piece of paper I did five years ago with my goal of five salons in five years—it’s a strange feeling to have achieved my goal and to read it now.”
He says Just Cuts is also unique as a fixed-fee franchise, as his previous was royalties-based. “This model rewards franchisee success, as you maximize your benefit from the revenue and profitability you work with your team to build.”
Belcher continues, “You don’t have to work in your business, but hair is a dynamic industry, so you can’t be a passive owner. That’s where Just Cuts’ technology brings you a strong small-business advantage by streamlining day-to-day operations.”
Employing over 50 stylists, Belcher says Just Cuts is also well positioned to recruit dedicated staff.
“Just over half of your costs are wages, so your people are key to your success. Another business benefit of the national brand awareness is that, as a Just Cuts owner, you recruit the right kind of person automatically. My stylists are generally middle-aged mothers with kids who want flexibility, which suits Just Cuts perfectly.”
Belcher also credits Just Cuts’ brand equity in the key promise of ‘no appointments,’ and a uniquely transparent, fixed pricing structure in the market for his sustained success.
“Since the pandemic, there’s been growing demand for Just Cuts as many other independent and chain salons shut their doors. And with the investments the brand continues to make in recruitment initiatives, technology, and salon-exclusive Justice retail products, we’re well positioned despite the economic headwinds to grow our revenue.” ■
Recent research shows that the residential cleaning industry in Canada is now worth an astounding $8 billion annually, which provides an incredible opportunity for you to become your own boss! MOLLY MAID was established in Mississauga, Ontario, in 1979, and today is recognized as the largest and most trusted residential cleaning company in Canada. There are three very distinct franchise opportunities available: traditional, neighbourhood, and established franchises.
When you are awarded a MOLLY MAID franchise, you gain access to the most well-known trademark in the residential cleaning industry and proven business systems that have been developed to provide you with a competitive advantage. You are granted an exclusive geographic
territory, comprehensive training on our proprietary business systems and software, and ongoing coaching and support.
• A traditional franchise is owneroperated in an urban or suburban market. You would hire teams to clean as well as manage the business.
• A neighbourhood franchise is a low-cost opportunity in smaller markets, where you start out as a hands-on operator and cleaner in the business.
• An established franchise is an existing business that is available for purchase. There are existing clients, employees, revenue, and profit.
Owning a MOLLY MAID franchise isn’t just about making a profit—it’s about making a difference. You’ll be creating jobs, supporting local
families, and giving people the gift of free time. Imagine the joy of helping a busy parent spend more quality time with their kids or helping a senior age comfortably in their own home.
If you’re passionate about helping people, have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and believe everyone deserves a clean home, then a MOLLY MAID franchise might be the perfect fit for you. MOLLY MAID franchise partners must operate from an office within the territory—either a home office or a rental space—and must be committed to operating the business full time and have a valid driver’s license. Contact Fiona Styant today, and she will guide you toward fulfilling your entrepreneurial dreams while making a positive impact on your community. ■ Contact Fiona at 1-855-248-0355, or franchiseopportunities@mollymaid.ca.
Join Smoke’s Poutinerie on its quest for “Global Domination” and be a part of this original quick-serve poutine revolution! Smoke’s Poutinerie is a cool, unique concept with a broad menu focusing on poutine and other over-the-top creations! Why bother opening another boring pizza or burger joint, or an over-saturated sub or burrito franchise, when you can open
an award-winning concept! Smoke’s Poutinerie’s goal is to bring the authentic, classic Canadian dish to the rest of the world in an original and unique way. It’s more than just fries, curds, and gravy—Smoke’s Poutinerie is an entertainment company!
Founded in 2009 by creative genius Ryan Smolkin, Smoke’s Poutinerie is the world’s largest and original
Poutinerie. Representing ‘80s Canadiana culture and known for its signature lumberjack plaid and glam rock music, Smoke’s Poutinerie serves over 30 varieties of its famous poutine.
The brand is excited to extend the opportunity to other poutine lovers to launch their own Smoke’s Poutinerie. Their team is looking for likeminded individuals who are fun, energetic, social, hard-working, service-oriented people who share the same vision and fit the atmosphere of the restaurant and brand.
Are you passionate? Check! Driven, ambitious? Check, check! Is your favourite meal poutine? Do you secretly rock out to Poison and Twisted Sister tunes when nobody’s looking? Then you’ve got what Smoke’s Poutinerie is looking for in the ultimate franchisee! Get on board the brand’s weird, wild, and wacky rock ‘n’ roll gravy train! ■
Oxygen Yoga & Fitness (OYF)
Ottawa master franchisee Dimitri Aramouni is expanding his reach to Tampa Bay, Florida, bringing his passion for fitness and wellness to a new region. Aramouni’s journey with OYF began with a simple problem: how to repurpose unused restaurant space post-pandemic. Since then, Aramouni has successfully opened three OYF studios in Ottawa, with a fourth studio in Rideau set to launch in fall 2024. This decision has set off a chain reaction that has positively impacted both his career and the well-being of OYF members.
Reflecting on the domino effect of positive habits, Aramouni shares, “You do a really good workout, then you want to hydrate after. You don’t want to have a coke or, you know, something unhealthy.” He believes
that OYF can be the catalyst for members to adopt healthier lifestyles. “We can be the initial pull to that sort of mindset, and then they start eating clean, coming to more classes, and spreading the word. That’s what I want when people leave the class. That’s how I want them to feel.”
Before joining OYF, Aramouni was entrenched in the restaurant industry, revitalizing the Mexi’s franchise in Ottawa. When the pandemic reshaped the restaurant landscape, Aramouni saw an opportunity to explore the fitness sector. His background in university football and yoga informed his decision, leading him to discover the benefits of infrared technology, and ultimately, OYF.
Meeting OYF CEO Jen Hamilton was pivotal. “She believed in me to help carry the brand in Ottawa,” Ara -
mouni recounts. His commitment deepened after experiencing a class at the Oshawa studio. Now, as the master franchisee for both Mexi’s and OYF in Ottawa, Aramouni leverages his franchise knowledge to foster success. ■
Since 1970, Print Three Franchising Corporation has been doing it all: colour copies, business cards, brochures, posters, outdoor signage, invitations, engineering drawings, promotional products, direct mail, variable printing data, and one-toone direct marketing. (That’s right— services that go way beyond print!)
Print Three is dedicated to outstanding quality, flexibility, and affordability. Its team is dedicated to your products: as they say, they are dedicated to your business, and dedicated to you. “We’re Print Three!”
The printing landscape in Canada is changing, and if you’re interested in an exciting opportunity to grow and develop within the print industry, Print Three can help!
As a Print Three franchise owner, you’re in business for yourself, not by yourself. Print Three provides support, training, and the backup to help
you succeed in the changing landscape of print in Canada. With Print Three, you gain access to established branding, marketing strategies, and systems. You also gain membership
in its coast-to-coast network of fellow franchise owners working in their communities, locally, and in the Print Three community, to build a strong and sustainable future. ■