Pick Up and Go

Curbside pickup is here to stay— here’s how franchisees can master this innovation in their small businesses

BY MONERIS

Small businesses have been leading the way when it comes to finding innovative ways to keep their doors open. But returning to normal doesn’t mean that all of their hard work has to go down the drain. One pandemic innovation that’s here to stay is curbside pickup, and we can’t blame customers for wanting to keep this trend around. Ordering online from your favourite stores and going to pick up at a time that works for you? Sounds like a win to us.

And curbside pickup is a win for business owners too. From helping with in-store shopping capacity to easing delivery costs, this hybrid alternative brings the best of in-person and online shopping together. Here are some ways franchisees can make sure they’re maximizing their curbside pickup potential.

Make the customer experience a breeze

From clear signage to timely communication, curbside pickup should be set up in a way that lets you set it and forget it. That could mean text or email updates that are sent directly to customers to let them know their order is ready, or signage to show them where they can park or walk up to collect their order. Franchisees can even use the reservation feature with Moneris Online to schedule pickup times to ensure there is enough time set aside to help each new arrival.

Anything that helps to reduce confusion and boost efficiency will help to keep customers satisfied and coming back to use the service.

Protection from chargebacks

Accepting payments over the phone for curbside pickup orders may be riskier than you think. Chargebacks are a very real problem for franchises where a customer pays for their order online or over the phone and arrives to pick it up later.

One way to keep chargebacks at bay is to process payments through a web-based solution, like a Moneris Online website or the Moneris Virtual Terminal. Both options allow franchisees to send a receipt to the customer directly so they both have a record of the transaction. It’s also a good idea to ask for ID or the card used to process the transaction once the customer does arrive, confirming their identity, and making sure the order makes it to the right person.

Alternatively, a wireless terminal is a great option for those who want to meet customers outside or at their cars once they arrive to pick up their orders. This not only keeps the processing fees low, but it also helps to keep the chargeback risk at a minimum just like regular in-store transactions.

Make pickup an alternative to delivery

Delivery has seen a huge uptake since the pandemic took hold, and it shows no signs of slowing down either. But with rising popularity comes longer delivery times and a potentially higher cost to franchisees or their customers. So, what’s the secret to taking advantage of the boost in online shopping while offering a faster and cheaper alternative to delivery? Curbside pickup of course.

This option helps empower customers to stop by and pick up their orders at a time that works for them. It’s a great way for them to get to know a franchise business beyond the computer screen and can give franchisees an opportunity to upsell or make connections that’ll keep new customers coming back. Make sure you highlight at checkout that curbside pickup is an option as a free alternative to delivery.

Be prepared for opportunities and unknowns

Franchise owners know the ups and downs of pandemic restrictions better than anyone. In the midst of winter and flu season, a strong curbside process is a great way to stay ready for anything.

Curbside pickup is also a great way to cater to last-minute shoppers who are in a rush without having to worry about capacity limits during busy shopping seasons. All they have to do is order online at their leisure and pick up their order on their way to that anniversary dinner or holiday party.

Whether franchise owners are curbside pickup converts or just know it’s a good option to keep their franchise competitive, doing it well can have great results. This hybrid way of shopping is a low-lift, highreward scenario that can keep franchise businesses going no matter the state of the world.

Moneris is Canada’s largest provider of innovative solutions for mobile, online, and in-store payments, processing more than one in three transactions. Serving businesses of every size and industry, Moneris offers hardware, software, and solutions to help transform the way businesses grow and operate, in payments and beyond. For more information, please visit www.moneris.com and follow @moneris. MONERIS and MONERIS & Design are registered trademarks of Moneris Solutions Corporation.

BETTER PAY, MORE OPPORTUNITY

Franchising is valuable for entrepreneurs and communities, says IFA Report

Franchises have long been a popular choice for entrepreneurs looking to own their own business with the advantages of a proven system. The Value of Franchising, a new Oxford Economics report commissioned by the International Franchise Association (IFA), highlights the diversity of franchised businesses and how franchises support local communities, provide better pay and benefits than non-franchised businesses, and offer more entrepreneurial opportunities—especially to women, minority groups, and first-time business owners. Here are some key takeaways from the report.

More than burgers and fries

Some may associate franchising with popular QSR (quick service restaurant) chains that boast hundreds of locations. In reality, however, franchising is a diverse industry, and the model is used for many types of businesses. According to the report, only one quarter of U.S. franchises are quick service restaurants. Well-known national brands make up only 16 per cent of the market, while local brands comprise 50 per cent of independent franchises. Just under half (48 per cent) of franchises are small, with 25 or fewer locations.

Higher pay and better benefits

The U.S.-based study found that franchise businesses pay 2.2 to 3.4 per cent higher wages than their non-franchised counterparts, and that 65 per cent of franchise workers are offered health insurance, a higher proportion than small businesses in general. It also found that franchise workers were promoted to manager at higher rates than workers in non-franchised businesses.

Greater opportunity

Franchising also encourages diversity in business ownership, with the model offering a lower barrier to entry for underrepresented groups. The report found that 32 per cent of survey respondents said they wouldn’t be able to own a business without franchising; this number was even higher (39 per cent) for respondents who were women or first-time business owners. The report found that 26 per cent of franchises are owned by people of colour, compared to 17 per cent of independent businesses generally. Franchise firms have, on average, 1.8 times the sales of non-franchise businesses, according to the report, and this number increases to 2.2 times when comparing Black-owned business and 3.2 times for veteranowned businesses.

Community care

While franchises are sometimes overlooked as local businesses, the report found that most franchises recruit and train local residents and more than one third of franchises purchase at least 25 per cent of required goods locally. About 65 per cent of franchisees give to charities in their area, and in 2019, U.S. franchisees donated an estimated $1.5 billion to charity and sponsored 18 million hours of volunteer activity.

SERVICE INNOVATIONS

Five brands within the food service franchise industry share how they adapted to keep serving communities

BY JESSICA BURGESS

While the pandemic challenged nearly every brand within the food service industry, some came out on top by introducing innovative and fresh ideas to keep customers safe and coming back for more. Here, five food-service franchisors share their thoughts on franchising trends and offer insight for those at any stage of their franchising journey. The past year in food franchising has been informed largely by COVID-19 safety concerns and continued adaptation to the changing realities of the pandemic. But there have also been many moments of strength and joy in work that’s so closely connected to people’s hearts—food.

“WE’RE IN GROWTH MODE IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE. OUR VISION IS TO BE THE FAVOURITE BAKERY IN EVERY COMMUNITY.”

- Brad Bissonette

COBS Bread

“We provide a product that people love, and it shows,” says Brad Bissonnette, vice president of marketing and franchise recruitment for COBS Bread, a bakery franchise with locations around the country. “People have continued to cook and eat more at home, a trend that emerged at the beginning of the pandemic and has shown it has staying power.” For COBS Bread locations, this trend means that people are buying more bread and treats to take home and enjoy there, which allows COBS to continue safely providing people with the products they love.

In terms of the future, Bissonnette reflects on the company’s optimism, with a focus on playing a continued role in the economic and social lives of Canadians. “We’re in growth mode in more ways than one,” says Bissonnette. “Our vision is to be the favourite bakery in every community, and there are still a lot of communities where COBS Bread doesn’t yet exist.” With 25 locations set to open in each of the next five years, Bissonnette notes that this is an ideal time to become a franchisee.

“Our most successful franchisees come from all walks of life,” Bissonnette explains, “but they all take a handson approach to growing a business and building a team. They’re self-starters, committed to high-quality results in everything they do.” While COBS Bread franchisees come from a variety of career backgrounds, many also have experience in the food-service industry in some way. And on top of that? “They have a passion for fresh baked breads and treats!”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Eggsmart

Eggsmart was founded in 2008, when parent company Chairman's Brands "saw an opportunity to introduce a fun and exciting breakfast concept where families and friends can get together and have a flavourful breakfast at an affordable price,” shares Eggsmart franchise director, Tariq El-Noqrashy. El-Noqrashy explains that while staying on top of industry trends and innovations has always been a part of the Eggsmart brand, it’s been especially important since the pandemic began. “We’ve been doubling down on technology in our restaurants and digitally, so that what we’re offering is more accessible to all customers. All this better prepares us for the future of the restaurant industry and changing customer behaviours.”

“The impact of COVID-19 was felt throughout the restaurant and hospitality industry,” adds El-Noqrashy, noting that this was particularly true of dine-in restaurants. “We worked fast on adapting two things: we launched our ordering app and increased our digital marketing efforts to drive delivery business, and we improved our packaging so that our product travels better with a focus on plating and heat retention, as we tried to mimic the in-store experience at home.”

The future of the brand is sunny, and the company is seeking franchise partners in all Canadian provinces. El-Noqrashy notes that an ideal franchisee has a positive outlook on life and genuinely loves people. “Running your own business can be personally and financially rewarding if you love working with people. The benefit of joining Eggsmart is that you’re joining a system that focuses on innovation, marketing, and operational excellence.” As El-Noqrashy sums it up: “The proof is in the poaching.”

“WE TRIED TO MIMIC THE IN-STORE EXPERIENCE AT HOME.”

- Tariq El-Noqrashy

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Grinner’s Food Systems / Greco Pizza

“Grinner’s prides itself on being a family-run organization that treats its franchisees like family,” shares Greg Smith, director of franchise business development at Grinner’s Food Systems. “We succeed when our partners succeed!” Founded in 1977 in Moncton, New Brunswick, Grinner’s Food Systems has grown to include 84 franchise locations, with Greco Pizza as the flagship brand that will be celebrating its 45th anniversary this year. “We’ve had a strong delivery system for years,” explains Smith, “but we recently added contactless delivery, online ordering, delivery tracking, and contactless pickup, as well as safe packing systems to ensure our guests can continue to receive their orders safely and with minimal contact.”

Food is essential, and with restaurants across the country continuing to serve their communities, this kind of innovation and dedication to service is crucial. “Guests want to know that the places they eat are safe,” adds Smith. This can also be extended to the places people work. Given the particular uncertainty of the past two years, this sense of community and family, both within a franchise and between franchises and the communities they serve, is perhaps more important than ever. “The pandemic caused Grinner’s to reconsider its priorities, including expansion. In response, Grinner’s focused their efforts on supporting their family of franchisees, including offering financial relief.”

As 2022 begins, Grinner’s is turning its focus once again toward expansion. “We’re currently recruiting multi-unit franchisees in Ontario and master franchise partners in Western Canada,” explains Smith. “Being a valued part of the communities in which we’ve been doing business that’s probably the biggest benefit of this kind of business.”

For Greco Pizza, this combination of community and expansion—and of course food beloved by so many— are sure to keep the ovens burning for years to come.

“GUESTS WANT TO KNOW THAT THE PLACES THEY EAT ARE SAFE.”

- Greg Smith

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

M&M Food Market

“M&M was born in 1980 in Kitchener, Ontario, [with the mission] to provide convenient, nutritious, and tasty food to busy people who couldn’t spend hours in the kitchen preparing meals—a lot like the needs of our customers today,” explains Pegi Klein-Webber, vice president, people, training and corporate communications, for M&M Food Market. “Starting in 2016, M&M began one of the most transformative rebranding efforts in the Canadian retail industry to appeal to a broader audience, delivering everyday value-added meal solutions while still remaining top-of-mind for entertaining solutions.”

She continues, “Customers across Canada have turned to M&M Food Market as an essential service during the pandemic.” This came at a time where there has perhaps never been such an important market for such meal solutions. “Over the past year, customers have shopped more with us online than ever before and we were able to accommodate this growth due to the foundation we built and strategic enhancements we’ve made over the past few years.”

M&M Food Market has provided meal solutions to countless Canadians across the country during a hectic time, and the company has continued to hone its service methods. “The health and safety of our customers and in-store teams has been our number one priority during the pandemic, and we acted swiftly to implement countless safety protocols and changes to our business to ensure a convenient, comfortable, and safe shopping experience,” says Klein-Webber. “During the pandemic, customers have relied on us to provide a safe and convenient shopping experience and we’ve also seen a significant spike in sales from our eCommerce channels, a trend we expect will continue.” Summing this up, KleinWebber says, “We’ve got you covered for all your meal solution and entertaining needs.”

“DURING THE PANDEMIC, CUSTOMERS HAVE RELIED ON US TO PROVIDE A SAFE AND CONVENIENT SHOPPING EXPERIENCE.”

- Pegi Klein-Webber

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Second Cup Café

In 1975, Tom Culligan and Frank O’Dea opened a kiosk in a shopping mall in Toronto, selling six different blends of whole-bean coffee. Decades later, that brand is still up and running as the well-known and beloved Second Cup, owned by Foodtastic Brands. While the brand has seen many changes and new leaders over the course of its nearly 47 years in business, it’s always stayed true to its commitment to providing Canadians with great products and service—even during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Like so many other businesses, we have been hit hard by the pandemic. Using technologies like social media and online delivery alternatives have been a big factor in mitigating the impacts in many locations,” shares vice president and brand leader Tom Hogan.

Alongside Second Cup’s commitment to serving customers during difficult times is a commitment to franchisees. “Our franchise partners aren’t just a part of Second Cup, but of the entire Foodtastic family, which allows for better pricing, programs, and services,” notes Hogan. Second Cup’s head office provides hands-on training for franchisees, as well as insight into industry trends. “We continue to see our guests moving toward fresher and healthier trends in both food and beverages. Non-dairy offerings like oat milk and other substitutes continue to be a growing part of our sales.” He adds that to be successful, you must recognize, embrace, and lean into these trends.

Second Cup continues to innovate and move forward. “We’re doing a complete re-brand in many ways,” Hogan notes of the company’s plans in 2022. “Staying ahead of trends and attracting a younger customer base is paramount for Second Cup to stay relevant and grow.” Regardless of such changes, the brand’s commitment to quality and service remains steady. “Our franchise partners must have an innate passion for service, quality, and coffee,” Hogan concludes, “taking great pride in what they do every day and treating all their staff and guests like family.”

“WE CONTINUE TO SEE OUR GUESTS MOVING TOWARD FRESHER AND HEALTHIER TRENDS IN BOTH FOOD AND BEVERAGES.”

- Tom Hogan

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

EDGE OF INNOVATION

FOUR FRANCHISE BRANDS EXAMINE HOW THEY’VE ADAPTED AND INNOVATED THEIR BUSINESSES IN RESPONSE TO THE PANDEMIC— AND WHAT CHANGES ARE HERE TO STAY

BY GINA MAKKAR

With the onset of the pandemic, businesses changed the way they operate, and innovation became a priority. Though changes can be scary, they can also create opportunities with long-term advantages, and companies that focus on innovating often emerge stronger and more successful than ever.

LEADING THE WAY:

LIVE WELL Exercise Clinic

Sara Hodson, president and CEO of LIVE WELL Exercise Clinic, was set to open her first U.S. location in March 2020 when the pandemic hit. “It was terrifying,” says Hodson. “I had to make swift, bold decisions I wasn’t prepared for. We’re trained to have a plan, but suddenly there was no plan.”

Though stressful, Hodson says it also provided the opportunity to examine the foundation of the business and make changes. She decided if they couldn’t deliver the LIVE WELL experience in the clinic, they’d mimic the experience online in the comfort of home. In-house technology allowed them to pivot quickly, and five days after they shut down, they launched LIVE WELL at Home. “We crafted a strong communication with strategic messaging,” says Hodson, noting that the move allowed them to retain 85 per cent of their clients within the first few months by tailoring programs to suit the needs and equipment of thousands of people.

To keep their members engaged, Hodson added weekly online wellness talks with world class speakers, an innovation that continues today. To deepen the connection with clients and foster togetherness and community, the brand added a live at-home program to attract members back to the physical space by reminding them of what the clinic and community looked like—and most importantly to keep them connected to each other. “We knew our members would need the health benefits of social connection just as much as the physical and mental health benefits of exercise.”

Hodson says in addition to innovating business, the pandemic became about innovating the industry. She got involved with the Fitness Industry Council of Canada, and became a voice of advocacy, helping to keep fitness facilities open in British Columbia. “It was a huge element of innovation, not just for LIVE WELL, but for the industry. I became the thought leader and expert in exercise across Canada.” In August 2021, she became president of the Council. “We were challenged by the crisis, but rose as leaders.”

With doors opening on the horizon, prospective franchisees are those that match the company's core values. “We provide tools and support so they can go into their communities, gain customers, and build a happy life for themselves,” says Hodson. “The fitness franchise industry is an opportunity for Canadians to look at how they can help their communities recover from COVID-19, start their own business, and take control of their future.” LIVE WELL is “for those looking to fulfill a purpose, help people, and build a profitable business—those are three things that are the start of a good conversation with us.”

“I BECAME THE THOUGHT LEADER AND EXPERT IN EXERCISE ACROSS CANADA.”

- Sara Hodson

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

NON-TRADITIONAL GROWTH:

MOLLY MAID

Modifying the parameters for cleaning was a priority for MOLLY MAID when the pandemic first hit. “We wanted to make sure we were doing the right things to ensure the safety of our teams and clients,” says Fiona Styant, director of franchise development. “We created and implemented the Healthy Home Cleaning System, giving us confidence to provide a safe service.”

In business since 1979, the brand has operated and remained successful in urban markets long-term. Today, they’ve shifted their focus to include outlying areas to provide the same professional service to smaller communities with a small market model. To achieve this, MOLLY MAID recently launched the Neighbourhood Franchise Model. “We’d been looking at launching prior to the pandemic, and moved forward and launched in summer 2021. The demand for both our service and our franchise opportunities has never been higher so launching our new opportunity then made sense.”

Unlike the traditional executive model, the Neighbourhood Model is an owner-operator system. “In the traditional model, franchise partners don’t go out and clean because their market is larger, and they can focus on growth without having to clean. In smaller markets, the owner will operate and clean. While they grow their business, they’re able to earn an income the whole time they’re growing.” All the same principles remain in place, from insurance to bonding, with the security of a professional company that offers satisfaction guaranteed. The franchise fee also covers aspects like marketing and advertising support for a successful start up and launch.

The brand seeks franchise partners who are driven and motivated, but the biggest key asset is the ability to work with others. “Our business is about leading, managing, and working with team members and customers. You have to be able to manage relationships effectively, so franchisees should really look for something they’ll be committed to.” Styant has identified more than 60 markets across Canada for the new model, with more to come.

Her advice to franchisees? Take the time to make sure it’s the right fit. “The one thing we always try to do is provide as much information as possible to ensure it’s the right fit for them and for us. The last thing we want to do is set someone up in a great business opportunity, but that isn’t right for them.” She adds that there’s never too much when asking questions. “At the end of the day, no matter how much money you’re investing, you worked hard for that money, and you want to make sure it’s the right move.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

PANDEMIC PIVOTS:

Pizza Nova

After 58 years in business, Pizza Nova’s recipe for success remains grounded in its roots: to offer fresh, premium, artisan-style pizza. “First and foremost, it’s about offering a premium product and a quality experience,” says president Domenic Primucci. “There’s a lot of larger companies out there. We’re not in the game [of heavy discounting], and never want to be, because we believe in serving a high-quality product. Over the years, we have a loyal following from our customers.”

With pizza—the ultimate sharing food—it’s important that options accommodate a variety of dietary needs and palates. Pizza Nova stays ahead of the curve by tailoring offerings to suit consumer demands, from antibiotic-free proteins to plant-based products.

Like others, Primucci navigated many uncertainties at the onset of the pandemic. “As a leader, people are calling you and looking to you. We had to communicate more within our teams and to our franchisees to help them through.” To adapt to the changes, they implemented strategies like contactless delivery, and forgave royalties to give franchisees time to regroup. “It’s about being fair. We’re one team, and help is part of our core values. We’re one big family.”

The brand also expanded its Grocery Mercato line, a collection of products available for purchase with food orders. “Grocery stores were overwhelmed and busier than ever,” says Primucci. In addition to its core products, like tomato sauce and olive oil, they offer fresh vegetables, flour and buns, and items that are readily available and used in store. “It’s not a huge line up, but we added items that are fresh and ready to go, and it’s worked out well.”

Pizza Nova continues to seek franchisees who believe in the brand, and know that it’s as much about the experience as the product. “The human experience is key with any successful restaurant,” says Primucci. “You really need to be a people person and understand that you have customers, and it’s not being behind the scenes anymore.”

His advice to franchisees is to ensure the company aligns with their values. “Being aligned will help smooth the transition to running a business a lot easier. You’ll be a lot happier because you’re representing a brand you really want to represent.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Pizza Nova added a range of grocery items for purchase in-store and with delivery orders, including Primucci products (above). Daily in-store options include pizza by the slice (top right) and new vegan menu offerings like the plant-based Plantollini Chick'n bites introduced this year (bottom right).

INNOVATIVE EDUCATION:

Scholars

Matt Baxter saw potential in Scholars Education Centre and purchased the franchise in 2018. Today, 74 locations deliver a curriculum with proven results. “We invest in research and development to create scientifically proven methodologies, resulting in satisfied families,” says CEO Baxter.

Though the pandemic paused in-person learning, Scholars’ in-house developers created a proprietary classroom with the exclusive system IQ, a tool that assesses and directs each child’s education journey. “The magic behind the system is that we’re able to tailor learning to each child individually,” says Baxter.

They also offer an innovative STEM program integrated with LEGO robotics to provide a hands-on learning experience. To expand the STEM offerings, Scholars partnered with Dr. Reiza Rayman, a cardiac surgeon and biophysical medical researcher.

“We aim to bring relevance and inspiration to what the kids are learning,” says Rayman. “COVID-19 was difficult, and the kids were troopers. Part of the innovation is to bounce back from that. LEGO education is appealing because it’s tangible for kids.”

The goal of the new program is to make learning fun and functional. “We want students to realize that STEM is all around us in various settings and applications.”

The concept integrates core material with tools like cameras and green energy devices, for a multifaceted approach. “Hopefully, it turns on the lightbulb as to why they need to learn the things they’re learning right now,” says Rayman. “It's those little experiences. We hear from a lot of high-achieving people that they had these experiences in their youth, and it inspired and drove their direction in life. We’re just at the beginning, and we think it will be great.”

The program will launch with an initial test group, and expand to include both elementary and secondary students. “Everyone suffered a learning loss when things had to close [during the pandemic], but I think they’ll make up for that loss quickly with programs like Scholars,” says Baxter.

Baxter notes that in adding professionals like Rayman to the team, they’re channelling their resources in securing the best talent to create a quality, top-notch curriculum and education. “We’re making it exciting,” he says. “If a child is doing a presentation on the robot they made, they’re also working on presentation skills and public speaking and confidence at same time. It’s our holistic approach to helping kids across the country to meet their potential.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

“THE MAGIC BEHIND THE SYSTEM IS THAT WE'RE ABLE TO TAILOR LEARNING TO EACH CHILD INDIVIDUALLY.”

- Matt Baxter

is pleased to present a Special Franchise Focus on QUICK SERVICE RESTAURANTS

Canadians Support Quick Service Franchising

Much has changed throughout the past two years, but one thing has remained the same: Canadians love quick, easy, and always tasty meals on the go. Thanks to quick service restaurants (QSR) from coast to coast, it’s easier than ever to get your favourite burger and fries, salad and smoothie, coffee and donut, and so much more efficiently

Franchise Canada November | December 2019 51 delivered into your hands (and stomach!)

There are nearly 97,000 restaurants, bars, and caterers across the country. That’s according to Restaurants Canada, who also states that the restaurant industry generates $85 billion in annual sales, making up four per cent of the country’s total GDP. All of this totals to 22 million restaurant visits made every day by Canadians who keep coming back for more.

According to the Foodservice Industry

Forecast 2021-2025 published by Restaurants

Canada, QSR sales are forecast to return to pre-COVID-19 levels in 2022. Annual sales for this year are also predicted to reach $34.5 billion, which represents an increase of 2.3 per cent over sales in 2019. The forecast for QSR sales by 2025 is $37.9 billion.

As for trends within the QSR industry postpandemic, the Foodservice Industry Forecast predicts that the trend towards take-out and delivery will continue. While that was temporarily customers’ only choice at the height of the pandemic—causing many quick service restaurants to pivot to take-out only and partner with food delivery apps—many Canadians have gotten used to eating in the comfort of their homes. Restaurants Canada also notes that menus with a large variety of item offerings, which require extra labour, are on the decline. The trend points to simpler menus that are quick and easy to produce in larger volumes. This is great news for QSR brands that specialize in a small handful of menu items, such as burgers, chicken wings, pizza, and more. Many quick service restaurant brands are members of the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA), making QSR the largest sector within membership. These franchises have weathered an economic storm through the COVID-19 pandemic, as they were deemed an essential service and stayed open to continue nourishing Canadians who needed a quick and healthy meal or a tasty pick me up. In this special focus, we’ll take a close look at the quick service restaurant industry, noting the resilience and innovation that’s allowed brands to keep serving Canadians the reliable and affordable food they know and love.

Franchise Canada November | December 2019 51

References: • https://info.restaurantscanada.org/hubfs/Resources/Infographics/

Canada-Restaurant-Industry-Infographic-EN-FR.pdf • https://members.restaurantscanada.org/wp-content/ uploads/2021/04/2021-2025-Long-Term-Forecast_LRwlink.pdf

Quick Service Restaurants Trends in a Post-COVID-19 World

Take-out and delivery options will continue to be the most popular among diners

Multi-unit operators

will see economic recovery and success within the industry

The QSR industry will bounce back and experience growth in the coming year(s) Large menus requiring more labour and support will see a decline

Quick service restaurants are forecast to see a 12.4%

increase in 2025 over 2019 annual nominal change in sales, representing the largest increase over other foodservice sectors

Quick service restaurants are forecast to grow to a value of $37.9 billion

by the year 2025

Year-over-year nominal change for quick service restaurants, as forecasted by Restaurants Canada

9

6

3

0

-3

-6

-9

-12

-15 4.4% 8.7% 8.6%

3.2% 3.2% 3.1%

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025

-13.3%

Reference: Foodservice Industry Forecast 2021-2025 - Restaurants Canada https://members.restaurantscanada.org/wp-content/ uploads/2021/04/2021-2025-Long-Term-Forecast_LRwlink.pdf Reference: Statistics Canada and Restaurants Canada

Quick-service Restaurants Sales

(in billions)

40

35

30

25

20

15

10 $33.7

$29.2 $31.8 Forecast

$34.5 $35.6 $36.8 $37.9

5

0

2019 2020p 2021f 2022f 2023f 2024f 2025f

KFC CANADA – The World’s Largest & Most Iconic Fried Chicken Brand

R L D FAMOUS CHI CKEN EXPERTS • O W K F C KFC • FINGER L ICKIN’ GOOD •

KFC,a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc., is a global chicken restaurant brand with a rich, decades-long history of success and innovation. It all started with one cook, Colonel Harland Sanders, who created a finger lickin’ good recipe more than 75 years ago, a list of secret herbs and spices scratched into the back of his kitchen door. Today, KFC still follows his formula for success, with in-house, certified cooks breading and freshly preparing the delicious world-famous chicken by hand in more than 25,000 restaurants in over 145 countries and territories around the world including more than 610 locations in Canada.

The colonel’s values are still very much alive and well within the brand and you can see those values come to life in their restaurants, their service, their food, their focus on the planet and their care for their people and their communities.

Restaurants:

Building on explosive unit expansion in 2021 and an impressive streak of seven consecutive years of restaurant sales growth, the brand has established itself as the clear and most recognizable fried chicken leader in Canada and a preferrable choice for Canadian landlords, developers and real estate brokers. Ambitious hypergrowth plans over the next 3 years include intensifying traditional restaurant expansion, roll out of new restaurant models including Flagship and urban-core models and finally non-traditional growth in unique formats such as gas stations, highway stops, airports, and education campuses. KFC is also accelerating rollout of their new, omnichannel restaurant prototypes to all new and existing locations to better serve customers across Canada.

KFC is not about novelty for novelty’s sake. KFC is a distinctive global icon and has deep roots through their original founder Colonel Sanders. While this distinctiveness and authenticity is at the core of the brand’s identify, KFC continues to pioneer innovation and growth through its restaurants which feature bold, high profile and visually impactful exteriors while interior designs provide a balanced focus on brand identity, digital modernity, warmth, and comfort.

Digital is the way of the future and the brand is pulling all the stops to lead the industry into a new era of service. Substantial digital growth includes everything from investments in high tech kitchen equipment, new order tracking systems, premium ordering kiosks and a unique mix of access modes which all support the brand’s ambitions to lead the industry forward. Resiliency is key, (especially today) and digital plays a big part, especially when it comes to accessibility. Digital enhancements to the brand’s drive-thru service, an established and highly successful own-channel delivery service (KFC.CA), 3rd party delivery services, Alexa-based ordering systems, curbside pick-up, order-ahead-pick up and more have kept KFC well positioned to continue serving Canadians high-quality, fresh, Canadian farm-raised chicken through any circumstance. It is this resiliency and nimbleness that has paved the way for KFC to remain dedicated to their path of innovation, growth, and development.

Food:

KFC capitalizes the “C” in KFC for a reason – it stands for chicken. To us, that means quality, 100% Canadian farm-raised chicken, free of added hormones or steroids, handbranded using the same 11 herbs and

• spices that have defined the brand for generations. KFC food is always craveable. KFC is the original fried chicken expert and an established international icon. Everything they do celebrates their passion for serving finger lickin’ good food. Whether it’s a spin on their world-famous iconic recipes, innovative ways to serve fried chicken, or new menu items inspired by their original roots, every new innovation is uniquely KFC. It is through this ideology that the brand is able to maintain it’s unique relevancy and distinctiveness globally. New menu items play a key role as evidenced by the successful launch of their new Famous Chicken, Chicken Sandwich and Plant-Based menu options this year.

WORLD FAMOU S CHICKEN EX P E R T S

K F C • • KFC

FINGER LICKI N ’ GOOD •

Planet:

A global brand should be globally aware. As an industry icon and a QSR leader, KFC aims to propel the industry into the green movement and strives to protect the environment in as many ways as possible – from how they source ingredients and packaging to their energy efficiency. The time to act is now and so the brand has established aggressive parameters to hold themselves accountable when it comes to sourcing, packaging and their restaurants. From use of Canadian canola oil vs palm oil to 100% fiber-based packaging from recycled sources and even moving away from plastic straws and bags, sustainability is clearly at the forefront for KFC Canada.

People:

KFC started out in the chicken business and has some of the most recognizable icons – from the tagline to the bucket to the Colonel himself. But over the years, KFC has evolved becoming famous for its culture centred around people and social purpose. From the franchisees and restaurant teams to the communities in which KFC serves – the brand has transformed into a people-first, heart-led and equal opportunity business with some new and bold strategies to continue fueling their people promise. This includes the launch of their inaugural diversity, equity and inclusion council in 2020, roll out of DE&I and HeartStyles training for restaurant managers all the way up the corporate office (Heartstyles by 2022 & DE&I by 2023), and establishment of their proprietary Harvest Program which facilitates donation of surplus chicken to local charities nationally. Since 2016, KFC restaurants have donated more than 182,000 pounds of food to 241 unique charities in Canada.

At the helm of it all is KFC’s thriving franchisees who are the driving force of what the brand has achieved to date and the true keepers of Colonel Sanders’ values and beliefs. Being a people-first brand, KFC pride’s itself on operating through a heart-led performance culture comprised unrivaled talent and capability. Undoubtably, a large part of the brand’s recipe for success includes partnership with the right franchisee partners that align with KFC’s unique “Three-C Matrix” (Capability Capital, Commitment). Both new and existing growth franchisees are calibrated through this robust system that helps pave the way for integrous market penetration strategies in each province.

With ambitious expansion plans in Canada, KFC is actively seeking passionate and dedicated new franchise partners nationally to join Colonel Sanders’ Family and to help bring the famous 11 herbs and spices coast to coast. The brand has special interests in recruitment for new franchise partners in Quebec, British Columbia, Rural Alberta, as well as urban-proficient partners that could thrive in urban city centres like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, etc.

Learn more about KFC’s recipe for success at www.kfc.ca/franchise.

“ YUM Brands (including KFC) is the largest restaurant company in the world, and with that comes a breadth of experience, knowledge, support and a culture that is second to none. The model for success is clearly defined and partnering with such an iconic brand, loved by Canadians, has proven to be the right decision. I’m appreciative of the opportunity to be part of such a huge global family and I feel confident in my business’s future” - Greg Walton, KFC Canada Franchisee ON., QC., SK. & Atlantic Provinces

To submit a site or apply for franchise opportunities please visit: KFC.ca/Franchise | KFC.ca/Real-Estate

THE TIME IS NOW

FAST FIRED by Carbone Pizza offers new franchise opportunities across Canada

When Regina, Saskatchewan-based Jugal Modi was searching for a quick-service restaurant concept that would excite and delight customers in Queen City, he knew he’d found a winner when he came across the FAST FIRED by Carbone pizza franchise.

Modi opened Saskatchewan’s first FAST FIRED by Carbone location in June 2021 and is thrilled with the results. “We’ve been busy since day one, and are delighted with how customers are responding,” he says. “We’re consistently hearing that our concept and value proposition hit a sweet spot in the market and that’s why we’re exceeding expectations and hitting all of our key performance indicators.”

Modi’s using his successful launch to lift those around him. On opening day, he and the FAST FIRED by Carbone team donated pizzas to several Regina charities that provide support to the most vulnerable members of the community.

Modi’s success is a source of pride for Carbone Restaurant Group (CRG) president and CEO, Benjamin Nasberg, who founded the company and launched the FAST FIRED brand in 2018 in his hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba. The 34-year-old says working with the company’s franchise partners—many of whom are first-generation Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs—is a highlight of his job.

“We’re always looking to collaborate with those who share our commitment to innovating and providing an inspiring and constantly improving customer experience,” says Nasberg. “Over the last year, we’ve seen rapid growth in prospective franchisee interest in our brand, and our mental model is to make our expansion decisions based on where the best franchisee partners are.”

FAST FIRED by Carbone pizzas can be customized by customers with more than one million topping combinations of crusts, sauces, and toppings, which include an ever-expanding list of plant-based options with each pizza made in 180 seconds. FAST FIRED also offers custom-made wraps, salads, and desserts, for those looking to add an extra touch to their experience.

To learn more visit fastfired.ca and

carbonerestaurantgroup.com

To learn more visit fastfired.ca and

carbonerestaurantgroup.com

OPA! OF GREECE

Founded in Calgary, Alberta in 1998, OPA! of Greece has been serving Greek food to Canadians for more than 20 years. The original philosophy of Greek cuisine is all about fresh, authentic dishes prepared with simple ingredients. OPA! stays true to this by using real, quality ingredients without artificial flavours or filler, and by inviting guests to slow down and enjoy the moment, fuelled by a delicious and nutritious meal. With a contagious energy for food and family, OPA! has built on its formula for success and is now Canada’s largest and fastest growing Greek food franchise, with more than 100 locations nationwide from British Columbia to Ontario.

The OPA! brand has been built over the years in partnership with a diverse group of talented franchisees who’ve contributed to its success and popularity across the country. Today, the fabric of OPA! is representative of the diversity of the Canadian population as it continues to collaborate with franchise partners who are both talented and enthusiastic through a lens of inclusivity. With a shared passion for preparing and sharing good food, OPA! franchisees play an important, hands-on role in the business at a local level. In fact, many franchisees have also become multi-unit owners as they’ve seen the brand flourish under their care.

OPA!’s franchise model is also known for the support, training, and guidance it provides to aspiring business owners, as well as valuable marketing and location-sourcing. The instant methodology, systems, knowledge, and the right working tools are available at the fingertips of any aspiring franchisee. They need only to bring passion, drive, and hard work to the table. OPA! provides extensive training to new franchisees to start them on the path to success. This includes a four-week program divided between instruction at head office and at a local franchise location. After that, it’s a partnership that can reap many rewards for everyone involved. Once training is complete, regional managers continue to act as business coaches, mentoring and maintaining open lines of communication with franchisees.

OPA! is dedicated to actively seeking new ways to partner with people and organizations that align with its desire to innovate and lead the food service industry into the future. In addition to a rapidly growing number of Canadian franchise locations that continue to open their doors each year, OPA! is also venturing south of the border with further expansion into key U.S. markets. Plans are also in place for collaborative ventures with other Canadian industry partners set to launch in 2022, marking an exciting new season of growth for the brand.

Other developments include ongoing menu testing and the addition of new items to OPA!’s offerings when something new strikes a tasty and relevant chord. As consumers become more conscious about what they eat and where their food comes from, OPA! continues to look for creative ways to develop new menu items that address those needs for healthy options. While the OPA! menu has remained true to the idea of fresh and healthy QSR meal options that were introduced nearly 25 years ago, OPA! also believes in staying current with consumer needs and industry trends. OPA! takes the time to test new menu items, technologies, and everything in between to ensure they’re being implemented and fine tuned to achieve the best possible outcome.

As an added convenience, OPA! customers can now also place orders for take-out via OPA!’s new dedicated app. The app will also feature a delivery and loyalty program, set to roll out in 2022, that’ll provide users with special rewards and discounts. The introduction of the OPA! app is indicative of the eatery’s desire to remain at the forefront of innovation, maximize convenience for consumers, and turn customers into fans through a positive brand experience.

OPA!’s goal is offer customers convenient access to delicious, healthy, good food to fuel their busy lives —connecting people with a feeling, not just what’s on their plate. OPA! remains excited to continue to pursue opportunities for further growth together with new franchise partners and other key stakeholders. For more information, please visit www.opasouvlaki.ca/franchise.

A well-established system with heart

Robin’s is a Canadian premium coffee shop that focuses on expertly roasted coffee, carefully crafted drinks, all-day breakfast, and fresh goods, all handmade daily. From simple beginnings in 1975 in Thunder Bay, Ontario, we’ve grown well beyond our hometown. Today, Robin’s is a favourite pit stop in small and large communities across Canada.

As a well-established system that’s built brand loyalty for more than 45 years, we’re continuing to build out our footprint across the county. Established systems, marketing, and supply chains allow franchise partners to focus on developing their business. The brand constantly addresses the challenge of increasing operating costs through menu innovation and concept adaptation.

In response to the pandemic, we’ve introduced online ordering to make it easier for customers to order their favourite products. We’re always looking for ways to simplify operations to reduce costs and counter any challenges. We worked with our franchisees throughout the height of the pandemic and beyond to improve our digital ecosystem, so that the brand can evolve into the future. We continue to support our franchisees through easy-to-execute programs.

Benefits of franchising with Robin’s include having a franchisor with four decades of experience in growing the brand, monitoring performance, and planning marketing initiatives to ensure we maintain and grow our market share. Franchisees also receive four weeks of in-store and theoretical training.

A qualified franchisee must have a good attitude, be self-driven, and love people. At Robin’s, we deal with each customer as a potential daily guest, dealing with guest feedback as an opportunity to win them over as a guest for life. Our franchisees look beyond just building a single store. They look at business the way they look at life: if you love what you’re doing, it won’t feel like work! ■

GRILLING UP A SUCCESSFUL BURGER

ALMOST EVERYBODY LOVES A GOOD BURGER. In fact, burgers are one of the most frequently consumed food items. Even during the pandemic, about three out of 10 people say they’ve consumed more burgers in the last year, according to a survey. More than ever, consumers are ordering burgers at least once a month, be it at a restaurant or at home. Here’s a look at what makes burgers so ubiquitous and well-loved.

Better, higher quality burgers

Nothing beats a delicious and juicy burger. Whether it’s fresh patties, premium ingredients, or exceptional types of cheese and condiments, consumers are expecting better taste, higher quality, and a variety of ingredients in their burgers. In recent years, consumer interests in burger trends such as better beef/ protein grades and fresh local ingredients have steadily increased and many QSRs have started to prioritize taste and quality above all to meet those demands.

Making it right

Clearly, consumers like their classic burgers done the traditional way with the usual fixings. They value the craft of preparation in addition to the taste and quality of the sandwich. They are drawn to restaurants like the iconic Fatburger who does just that—hand-pressing their fresh, never frozen, Alberta beef patties, individually cooking them on the grill to seal in the flavours, while keeping their juiciness using a basting lid, and crafting it just the way their customers want it, since 1952.

Customization

Consumers also love having a burger made-to-order and customized with ingredients they want. Many are willing to pay more if they have the ability to modify their preferences. When dining out, many customers turn to fast casual burger chains like Fatburger, expecting not only a wide variety of topping options, but also feeling like they’re getting something they would make at home. ■

Contact us: 1-888-597-7272 or franchise@fatburgercanada.com fatburgercanada.com

An authentic pizza franchising opportunity

Whether you eat authentic Neapolitan pizza on the streets of Naples or at a local Famoso, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Born In Naples

Since the first trip to the birthplace of pizza, Naples, Italy in 2005, Famoso has been passionate about staying true to traditional Italian pizza, authentic ingredients and culinary techniques in pizza making that have gone unchanged for generations.

For Italians, food isn’t just nourishment, it’s life. That’s why every dish on the menu is created by our in-house culinary team and inspired by our family kept recipes. The Italian tradition of communal dining also gets a nod, with many plates perfect for sharing.

Part of the Community

Famoso is the neighbourhood pizzeria where great food and good friends make the perfect ingredients for a memorable night. These stylish, casual pizzerias embody the look of old-school Italian with a modern flair. With an open-style kitchen, watching your authentic Neapolitan pizza being hand tossed by pizzaiolos is almost as enjoyable as eating it.

Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Less is more with Famoso Pronto. Our newest concept is an owneroperated fast casual restaurant with Famoso’s same commitment to authentic Neapolitan pizza. Famoso Pronto delivers a great taste experience with a focus on delivery, takeout, and dine-in.

Authenticity On The Menu

Famoso pizza is fired in an authentic bell-shaped oven, imported from Italy, for 90 seconds at 900ºF, to create a perfectly crisp, slightly charred, Neapolitan crust. And don’t forget about the sauce. Famoso imports its tomatoes from the Campania region and hand-mills them before the oven caramelizes them to perfection. Famoso keeps it classic with their Margherita Pizza, recognized by the Italian Ministry of Culture as one of the three kinds of true Neapolitan pizzas. ■

With a commitment to excellence and extensive training, every bite inspires a taste of Naples, right here in Canada. Learn more about Famoso’s franchise opportunities at Famoso.ca.

BE PART OF FAMOSO’S SUCCESS

Just Opened - Heartland, ON - Coquitlam, BC Opening Soon - Aldergrove, BC - South Surrey, BC - Camrose, AB and more! • Leading authentic Neapolitan pizzeria in Canada • Quality ingredients imported from Italy • 31 locations across Canada • Required investment

• Full size Famoso $800k • Pronto Fast Casual streamlined model $450k • Best-in-class support and training

Famoso has won multiple awards for BEST PIZZA

jkang@famoso.ca

(ON & Eastern Canada) partner@famoso.ca

(Western Canada)

604.637.7272 • 1.888.597.7272 • famoso.ca 401 – 1901 Rosser Avenue, Burnaby, BC, V5C 6S3

Modern Indian Food QSR – Simply Delicious

BUTTERCHICK – INDIAN KITCHEN is an entirely new style of QSR that is fast and flavourful with no chefs required to operate. Our business model is designed to make daily operations EASY, and bring in MORE customers by serving satisfying, consistently delicious authentic Indian food. Butterchick franchises generate higher PROFITS due to vertical integration with our parent company that produces all the required sauces, pastes, marinades, chutneys and savoury drinks. This differentiates Butterchick franchises from the rest. The Butterchick menu is unique, fully customizable and can be made to order. To ‘Make your own meal’: choose your curry + add bread, rice or wrap + add your choice of sides, and enjoy your meal. For street food enthusiasts, we have a Street Food menu – from Butter Chicken Poutine to a variety of chaat’s (savory roadside delights). Indian food is not complete without a savory drink. We offer traditional Masala Chai, Pani Puri and Jal Jeera. And all of our flavour profiles have been tested and are loved by many Indian and nonIndian consumers alike.

From the first moment we began serving authentic Indian food in a QSR format, Canadian consumers responded with line-ups around the block. Despite a global pandemic the Butterchick brand continues to grow, and grow! We have the brand, the capability and the capacity. And, with our secret recipes and streamlined operations, success is sure. The Butterchick model means better cost, taste, consistency, and less prep time; and most importantly you DO NOT need a chef to run your kitchen. Now is the time! Now is our time! Now is Butterchick time! ■

To apply please visit: www.butterchick.com/franchising

Support for the QSR Industry and Beyond

How Bank of Montreal partners with franchise brands and entrepreneurs within the growing restaurant industry BY DAREN CHALUPIAK

THE PAST TWO YEARS have been a challenge in a variety of unique ways for business owners and across the franchise industry. We at Bank of Montreal (BMO) appreciate all the operators and brands that have demonstrated resilience as all sides of operating a business have been pushed to their limits from sales to cost of goods and supply chain issues, and from staffing to relationships with business partners. BMO is proud to have continued supporting the quick service restaurant (QSR) and casual restaurant industries from individual clients, to single and multi unit franchisees, as well as regional and national brands.

BMO’s entrenchment in the QSR industry and franchise space as a whole allowed our team to keep abreast of trends and continue to partner with and support our clients. With our national team approach, we are able to share and support the industry in real time, providing exceptional advice and service.

The BMO team quickly learned about support programs and facilitated the application process early on. The team engaged clients with new tools, such as cash flow worksheets, to help businesses identify where they are, where they’re going, and what’s required to get there. BMO also worked with franchisors to keep units operational and help their brands continue growing. The “sky is falling” mindset was not necessarily the case for many in the QSR space. In fact, many networks were able to continue to grow even through the roughest days.

BMO is always open for business! We support franchise brands and entrepreneurs within the QSR industry as they continue to add locations across the country. BMO works with emerging and established brands, providing support to both individual unit and multi unit growth expansion plans through a thoughtful and experienced approach. ■

Daren Chalupiak brings 20 years of franchising experience, working with franchisees and franchisors to help them open and grow their business with the right solutions and advice at the right time.

You’ve dreamed it. Now do it.

At BMO, our national team of franchising finance experts is standing by to help make your future successful. Our in-depth knowledge of the franchise landscape allows us to advise you at every step along your business journey. To learn more, visit bmo.com/franchise

™/®Trademarks of Bank of Montreal

Canada’s favourite healthful franchise

THE BOOSTER JUICE CONCEPT was the first of its kind to start bringing healthy, convenient food options to Canadians. Dale Wishewan, founder, president, and CEO, had been making his own healthy protein drinks for years before opening the first Booster Juice location in November 1999. It was after seeing the first juice bars while travelling in the U.S.—and recognizing a void of healthy options in the Canadian QSR sector—that the concept was born. He knew that the version he made for Canada would need to be quite different and focused more on product quality.

Booster Juice is unique, as one of under a handful of brands that can say they operate in every province and territory in Canada. The brand wouldn’t have been able to grow and get market penetration without franchising, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see so many franchise partners share the passion for what Booster Juice represents.

Over the past two years, the stopping and starting of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions has been very challenging at times. The Booster Juice brand prides itself on great customer service and it’s been harder than normal to interact with customers while wearing a mask. Despite the challenges, the system has thrived as it continues to focus on health and convenience, recognizing that now—maybe more than ever— people want to fuel their bodies with premium ingredients. Booster Juice smoothies come with an average of five servings of fruit in a regular size, making it easy for customers to get their full recommended daily servings of fruit in a single tasty drink.

Dale adds, “Booster Juice is continuing to grow strategically and plans to open approximately 35 stores in 2022. We’ll continue to be innovative, discover products before they become mainstream, and help to educate Canadians on what these products can do for them. Investing in a Booster Juice franchise means joining a system that’s constantly adapting and growing to bring healthy tastes to Canadians in every corner of the country.” ■

To apply visit: boosterjuice.com/franchise-opportunities For more franchise information email: franchising@boosterjuice.com

AN OPPORTUNITY SO GOOD, YOU CAN TASTE IT!

• 40 NEW Canadian locations in 2022 • Over 420 stores in Canada & Internationally • Premium locations available • Industry-leading sales growth • Own one or multiple stores • Full turn-key buildout • Comprehensive training

BE A PART OF THE BOOSTER JUICE TEAM & APPLY NOW!

To apply visit:

boosterjuice.com/franchise-opportunities

For more franchise information email:

franchising@boosterjuice.com

Franchise Opportunities Available with Greco Pizza, Capt’n Submarine and Frozu! Frozen Yogurt

GRINNER’S is a Truro Nova Scotia based restaurant franchising company. It franchises and licenses the popular Greco Pizza, Capt. Submarine and FROZU! frozen yogurt concepts. Grinner’s also owns and operates Frank and Gino’s Grill and Pasta House.

Grinner’s has been helping entrepreneurs build their own business since 1981 and currently has over 100 units operating in Atlantic Canada and Ontario and we have franchise opportunities available in Atlantic Canada.

We have started plans to expand into Ontario and Western Canada and are now aggressively looking for Master Franchise and Area Development Partners.

Grinners has over 18 full time employees dedicated to franchising and licensing our restaurant systems, so if you are looking to start your own business or add to your existing business now is the time to join the Grinners Family. ■ For more information visit our website Grinners.ca.

Grinners Food Systems Limited is currently

looking for Area Developers and Master Grinners Food Systems Limited is currently looking for Area Franchisees in Ontario and Western Canada.Developers and Master Franchisees in Ontario and Western Canada.

BENEFITS Contact: Greg Smith Request Info: 1-800-565-4389 | franchising@grinners.ca • Well established brand with over 30yrs experience and 100 locations • Atlantic Canada’s #1 Pizza Brand and one of Canada’s oldest franchises • Opportunity to own development and franchise rights within defined BENEFITS • Well established brand with over 30yrs experience and 100 locations region, territory or province.• Atlantic Canada’s #1 Pizza Brand and one of Canada’s oldest franchises • Opportunity to own development and franchise rights within defined • Opportunity to own development and franchise rights for Alberta and region, territory or province. possible additional provinces• Opportunity to own development and franchise rights for possible additional provinces Alberta and • Family owned and operated business that treats their franchisees like • Family owned and operated business that treats their franchisees like real partnersreal partners • Tried and tested system that is simple to execute • Tried and tested system that is simple to execute • Full corporate support with over 25 in house employees • In house advertising agency, with award winning marketing support • Full corporate support with over 25 in house employees • In house advertising agency, with award winning marketing support

REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to develop, construct, operate and manage multi-unit growth over a predetermined period of time.

Contact: Greg Smith Request Info: INVESTMENT LEVEL

• To be discussed in person. 1-800-565-4389

franchising@grinners.ca

Health-focused franchising

SEEDS is a 400-1200 sq. ft fast-casual 100% plant-based restaurant with a hardcore focus on nutrition. We make healthy and fresh food in a fast way with more than 60 toppings, seven proteins, oil-free dressings, baked-not-fried ingredients, customizable meals, non-GMO soy ingredients, organic greens, and soy and gluten-free options. Our smoothies and juices are blended and sweetened with dates, so they retain as many nutrients and fibre as possible. Nutritional information is available, including macronutrients and glycemic load (GL).

Our evidence-based, supervised weight management meal programs have allowed many people to achieve their health and weight loss/ gain goals.

According to a report by Bloomberg Intelligence, the plant-based foods market could make up as much as 7.7% of the global market by 2030, with a value over $162 billion, up from $29.4 billion in 2020. Now is the perfect time to invest in a company with a lot of potential in the rapidly growing market.

The cost of a Seeds franchise includes a $25,000 initial franchise fee, liquid assets of $150,000, a net worth of $300,000, and a total investment of $160,000 to $420,000.

We have franchise opportunities for single units, multi-units, and master franchises across Canada and select US markets. We also have available conversion opportunities allowing the brand to transform existing food and beverage businesses into Seeds franchises.

We are putting all our experience to work for the benefit of successful franchisees, assisting with all facets of the process, including marketing analysis, site selection, lease negotiation, design, equipment, supplies, and two weeks of intensive handson training at Fonthill, Ontario, our training facility. A complete training program is developed for those with or without prior restaurant experience.

Our ideal candidate: • Has respect for all living things and our planet • Is outgoing and has a positive outlook and attitude • Has sales and/or management experience • Has a background in or passion for nutrition and fitness • Can build relationships and lead a team. ■

Fired up about franchising

TONY VISCA AND FERN COLVECCHIA have brought their pizza game to the next level. Backed by decades of knowledge and experience owning restaurants that specialize in utilizing a wood-fired oven, DoughBox is the ultimate frontier in the evolution of artisanal pizza, authentic pasta, and fresh salads.

DoughBox is known for its signature freshly-stretched dough, homemade sauces, wide range of premium ingredient choices, and being the Fire Master of wood-fired ovens.

Did we mention that DoughBox guests are involved in their pizza creation? While guests are busy dreaming up a creative combo of sauces, cheese, and toppings that makes their mouth water, the DoughBox Team builds the pizza right in front of their eyes.

DoughBox is an energetic, witty, imaginative, edgy, warm, and welcoming quick service restaurant that also offers seating for dining in.

DoughBox also has an extensive team to assist franchisees every step of the way. ■

Visit our website at doughbox.ca and email franchise@doughbox.ca to learn more about being your own boss and Fire Master. We encourage you to “Join the Pizza Revolution” today!

FREE SIGNATURE PIZZA

visit a DoughBox near you to redeem no cash value - cannot be combined with any other offer

JOIN THEJOIN THE PIZZA REVOLUTION

Site Selection and Lease Negotiation Negotiated Supply Agreements Comprehensive Training Program Knowledgeable Support Team Established Loyalty Rewards Program Net worth of $200k

CONTACT FOR DETAILS FRANCHISE@DOUGHBOX.CA 905-658-3242

DOUGHBOX.CA

Good Earth Coffeehouse has been serving ethically sourced coffee and fresh wholesome food since 1991

OUR FOUNDERS BEGAN WITH A DESIRE to serve exceptional coffee and wholesome food in an authentic coffeehouse environment. They did that and more, committing Good Earth to support environmental and social good. Now there are fifty Good Earth Coffeehouses in Canada, from Victoria, BC to Montreal, QC. They're warm and inviting places where people like to gather.

While our company has grown, we have stayed true to our original desire to be a coffeehouse with

good food. We believe in good coffee. Coffee and espresso are the heart of our business. We believe in responsible farming and small-batch roasting. Our selections include Rainforest Alliance Certified, Fair Trade and Organic coffee … and every cup is exceptional. We believe in good food. Our food is fresh and wholesome. It sets us apart from the competition. We serve fresh baked goods and hot breakfasts, hearty soups and stews, fresh salads, sandwiches, and a variety of hand-crafted beverages. Good Earth is uniquely a coffeehouse with good food.

We believe in bringing people together and fostering the greater good. Coffeehouses are places people have gathered for information, conversation, comfort, and community for centuries. Our coffeehouses are warm, friendly, and inviting gathering places like the coffeehouses of old.

We believe in you. Good relationships are at the core of Good Earth. We know it takes commitment to build relationships with our Franchise Partners, our customers, and our communities. Find out how you can own your own coffeehouse. Wherever you are in Canada, we have a coffeehouse waiting for you. ■

Let’s chat over a cup of Good Earth coffee. www.goodearthcoffeehouse.com franchise@goodearthcoffeehouse.com • 1-888-294-9330

Serve your community with ethically sourced coffee, fresh wholesome food, and human connection!

Locations available across Canada. Contact us to learn more.

www.goodearthcoffeehouse.com franchise@goodearthcoffeehouse.com 1-888-294-9330

Everything you need to create your franchise future!

Buying a franchise can be an overwhelming process. The good news is you don’t have to do it alone. Franchise Canada is here to guide you through the franchise process, with everything you need in one spot: FranchiseCanada.Online

Franchising 101: Easy-to-read resource articles and tutorials can help kick-start your franchise success!

LookforaFranchise.ca: Explore the wide range of available franchise opportunities in our online directory

Ask the Expert: Hear firsthand from franchise professionals as they answer common questions from prospective franchisees Franchise Canada Chats: Listen to inspiring franchisees and franchisors who are building their businesses and connecting with their communities

Franchise Canada TV: Find interviews, tutorials and guides, information about key franchising topics, and more!

Franchise Canada E-News: Get the latest Canadian franchise opportunities and updates delivered to your inbox through our FREE e-newsletter

Ready to Learn More? Subscribe to Franchise Canada E-News for FREE today to receive a FREE digital edition of Franchise Canada magazine!

Taking the Confusion Out of Insurance

What you should know as a franchisee about insurance policies for your small business

BY JENNIFER TYRWHITT GORY

While the average consumer is savvier than ever before, insurance may still be confusing for business owners.

An insurance broker is an important professional intermediary who should be working on behalf of their client, with an unbiased representation of the consumer. They should suggest several insurance companies to choose from and provide the best possible insurance solutions for your needs.

An insurance broker should be carefully considered, in much the same you would do in selecting your lawyer, accountant, and other professionals you turn to for help when becoming a franchisee. However, there can be a real temptation for clients to choose insurance solely based on the premium, in order to control ever-important cash flow. Nevertheless, discovering that you have a lacklustre policy for your business—and the business income it generates—could happen too late. After you realize you need your policy is not a wise time to investigate and discover that it’s an inferior one.

So, you’ve signed onto a new franchise opportunity, have the space selected, and the lease is signed. Now what? Your new landlord will need you to provide proof of insurance. The franchisor that you’ve signed on with may have a list of insurance brokers that they’ll have as their preferred vendors, or you can venture on your own. It’s important when you review your Franchise Agreement and the Lease Agreement that there’s indemnity wording contained in both documents, and you must be mindful of coverages and limits that your franchisor and/or landlord have asked of you. You can give these agreements to your insurance broker for review.

One emerging area of potential exposure is cyber security. Businesses are increasingly interested in Cyber Insurance, both first- and third-party liability coverage. This should be deemed more important than property and casualty lines of insurance. As some businesses have had to pivot to more online services, exposure to Ransomware attacks; PR services, should there be a privacy breach; and related business interruption claims around hacking incidents has increased. The most valuable aspect of a Cyber policy is having access to IT professionals who can assist you, as most small businesses may not have IT experts on staff.

Property, Business Interruption coverage, and Bonding and Liability coverages are other risks which are always prevalent. Fire and water damage claims continue to be on the rise, in addition to claims like slip and falls, contamination, and trademark infringement, to name a few. A full Commercial General Liability (CGL) policy covers both premises and products liability. If you’re considered a “professional,” in addition to the CGL, you’ll also need to carry Professional Liability coverage as the CGL policy excludes professional liability.

Additionally, there’s the possibility for employers to be sued for Employment Related Practices, including discrimination, wrongful dismissal, and human rights issues. This coverage can be purchased by way of a Directors & Officers Liability insurance. Being a business owner comes with an increased risk of being personally sued for issues at the shareholder or corporate level. Canadian courts are showing an increased willingness to hold professionals to a higher standard of care.

Navigating insurance policies for your small business can be tricky, but a broker will offer valuable insight into what coverage will best fit your needs.

Jennifer Tyrwhitt Gory is the president of Insurance Portfolio Inc., an independent family owned and operated insurance brokerage that’s been in business for more than 90 years. It brokers all types of insurance including Commercial Insurance, Professional Indemnity, Franchisor Liability including Rescission, Property & Automobile. Insurance Portfolio Inc. is licensed in all 10 Canadian provinces, and have been proud members of the CFA for over 15 years. It works with all types of franchisors, including bricks and mortar and online businesses.

Home Improvement Franchises Across Canada

Whether customers are looking for a quick touch up, small repair, damage restoration, or big home renovation, many will turn to the services provided by home improvement franchises from coast to coast. These businesses provide residential and commercial services including painting, emergency restoration, flooring, repairs and remodeling, handyman services, decking, interior and exterior renovations, and much more. Franchises that provide improvement, renovation, or restoration services are an excellent option for those looking to join an industry that helps support and assure Canadians that their most sacred spaces—their family homes—are repaired and protected. Many of these brands don’t require previous handyman or repair experience, as franchisees oversee the repairs are done by their staff, while others let franchise owners get involved in the repairs and help their customers from start to finish. When inspiration for a fresh transformation hits or unexpected disaster strikes, look no further than these home improvement franchises across the country!

911 Restoration

Joining the 911 Restoration system means not only becoming part of a top-ranked restoration company, but also joining its “Fresh Start Family.” As more than just a water damage restoration franchise, the brand is comprised of a group of compassionate, hard workers who strive to make a difference in the lives of customers through restoration services and community outreach efforts. Franchisees with 911 Restoration can expect a low initial investment, fast ROI, high profit margins, exclusive territories, national accounts, and a fulfilling career path through helping others find their “Fresh Start” during devastating circumstances. The recession-proof property restoration industry is unaffected by changing or declining economies, and franchise partners can join with no experience in the home services industry.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

CertaPro Painters

As the largest and most referred residential and commercial painting company in North America, CertaPro Painters has been ranked #1 in franchisee satisfaction by Franchise Business Review and #1 by Entrepreneur magazine since 2012, and has received multiple awards from the Canadian Franchise Association. The brand provides professional painters who respect customers’ businesses and homes. Franchisees with CertaPro Painters benefit from management support, vendor discounts and recommendations, lead generation opportunities, and branded materials and uniforms. Starting a franchise can be done with low overhead costs, no real estate or physical office necessary, and large room for growth within the $56 billion market.

B-Protek Concrete Resurfacing

With more than 17 years of experience in the field of painting and coating concrete surfaces, B-Protek Concrete Resurfacing provides interior, exterior, and garage finishing services across Canada. The brand is well established in Quebec with 18 territories in operation under the "Béton Surface" brand, as well as franchise locations operating in Ottawa and Kingston, Ontario, and Winnipeg, Manitoba. Ideal B-Protek franchisees are born entrepreneurs who enjoy offering impeccable customer service. They are well-organized team players committed to excellence and ready to overcome obstacles. The benefits of franchising include a range of high-quality products, a unique network of partners, complete training, call center services, access to a quote and invoice management platform, proven techniques, and much more.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

College Pro

College Pro is the friendly neighbourhood window cleaning company that focuses on two core areas of business: the development of student entrepreneurs, and the delivery of residential window cleaning and painting services. The brand’s training program is the driving model that uses a highly focused coaching and skill development process to coach new entrepreneurs in running a business delivering services to customers. With a $0 franchise fee, College Pro provides a three-year process to becoming a business owner: first, you run an owneroperator style business to develop skills; second, you act as an owner in a more independent role; and the third year puts you into a senior leadership role as owner of your business.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Elite Trade Painting

With more than 30 years of experience in the painting contracting business, Elite Trade Painting’s network of franchise owners provides high quality residential and commercial painting services across Canada. Jobs may range anywhere from a standard home exterior to a parkade to a multi-unit development, and everything in between! Elite Trade Painting is looking for individuals who are interested in joining the highly rewarding home services industry. As a franchisee, you’ll benefit from a proprietary software system, exceptional customer service, and good people you can trust and respect. The brand’s support, training, and custom mobile software establishes a competitive advantage for all its franchisees. Experience in the painting industry isn’t a requirement, although beneficial. A general knowledge of business management and a service style business is definitely an asset.

End of the Roll

As Canada’s flooring leader with more than 60 locations nationwide, End of the Roll Flooring Centres offer the most competitive pricing in the flooring industry. The brand leverages the power of its buying group with the industry’s top suppliers including Shaw, Mohawk, Beaulieu, Dreamweaver, Mannington, TORLYS, and more, ensuring that the success of its franchises is its number one priority. End of the Roll Flooring Centres franchisees are provided technical, accounting, and marketing support from corporate office staff from start to finish. Initial training includes management training, sales training, marketing strategy, and some computer training. Franchisees can participate in annual workshops and conventions to continue receiving business support and learning. Franchisees can also be highly successful and balance their lifestyles, unlike in other industries with long hours, numerous staff, and smaller margins.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Five Star Painting®

Since 2005, Five Star Painting has helped transform tens of thousands of homes with its quality painting services that add a splash of colour to customers’ walls. Today, the brand has more than 200 franchise owners and has become one of North America’s leading painting services companies. Five Star Painting is one of 12 Neighbourly® brands in Canada. Neighbourly® is the world’s largest home services franchisor of 28 brands and more than 4,800 franchises collectively serving more than 10 million customers in nine countries. Franchise owners with Five Star Painting benefit from being part of the Neighbourly® family of home service brands providing access to local cross-marketing plans, networking opportunities within the community, and more. Additional benefits include established systems and proprietary technology, ongoing training and support, exclusive vendor discounts, and more.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Floor Coverings International

Floor Coverings International is a mobile retail floor coverings franchise that offers both soft and hard flooring products as well as window blinds. Flooring options for customers include carpet, vinyl, hardwood, laminate, tile, stone, and eco-friendly options. By joining Floor Coverings International, franchise partners receive an exceptional opportunity in the $48 billion flooring industry. Franchisees benefit from six weeks of pre-training that can be completed from the comfort of your home, five days of training at headquarters, a phone to call to walk through the sale process before your first jobs, field training with an assigned field coach, marketing support, 90-day training once you’re three months into the business, a weekly call with the CEO, and much more.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Handyman Connection

For more than 25 years, Handyman Connection has positioned itself as a handyman and home improvement franchise system serving the repair, restoration, and maintenance needs of residential and commercial properties. It specializes in small- to medium-sized home improvements, repairs, and remodeling projects for customers. Franchise owners with Handyman Connection don’t need any handyman skills or experience, as they’re not responsible for completing the work themselves. Rather, they connect local handymen with local homeowners to provide exceptional handyman services. The brand strives to support all potential franchisees by offering abundant information to help them expand, grow, and evolve in the changing business landscape.

Hickory Dickory Decks

As the world’s largest custom deck franchise company, Hickory Dickory Decks specializes in high quality, low maintenance decks and has built a solid reputation as a leader in this growing and profitable industry. Franchisees with Hickory Dickory Decks benefit from an initial training program, ongoing assistance from the franchise support team, and systems to help launch an exciting new career. Franchise partners invest in a mobile and/or workfrom-home business opportunity with an off-season to relax and improve the franchise. Additional benefits include a trusted brand name, positive referrals to grow your business, a competitive advantage in selling custom-made, low maintenance decks, and much more.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Local Handyman Group

The Local Handyman Group is a collection of handyman brands across North America that provide services to help customers complete home repair and renovation projects. The brand aims to be nimble, providing a quick response time, while the niche market focuses on smaller home and business repair projects. Franchisees with Local Handy Group are provided with an exclusive territory and low monthly overhead costs, and are responsible for paying territory fees, royalties, and a monthly technology fee. Local Handyman Group offers customers multiple locations across Canada, friendly and uniformed handymen that can complete small to medium tasks with quick turnaround times, quality work done correctly the first time, secure and easy online booking, upfront pricing and quotes, and much more.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Mr. Handyman®

Since 2000, Mr. Handyman has been the modern-day handyman solution for homeowners across North America. The brand is one of 12 Neighbourly® brands in Canada. Neighbourly® is the world’s largest home services franchisor of 28 brands and more than 4,800 franchises collectively serving more than 10 million customers in nine countries, focused on repairing, maintaining and enhancing homes and businesses. Mr. Handyman has onboarded hundreds of self-sufficient franchise owners who take pride in contributing to their communities, while creating an entrepreneurial lifestyle that they can control and enjoy. Franchising benefits include being an industry-leading brand name, offering diverse and indemand services for home and business owners, providing a flexible lifestyle, and delivering comprehensive business support including ongoing training and marketing strategies, among much more.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

N-Hance

N-Hance Wood Renewal provides services to refinish hardwood floors, cabinets, furniture, and other wood surfaces. Customers can expect to receive beautifully restored cabinets and floors at a fraction of the cost, with no dust, mess, or odour in their homes. New franchisees with N-Hance benefit from the brand’s 15 years in the industry, and receive an intensive training at headquarters, followed by a year-long personal “N-Gage” business coach that’s assigned to each franchise owner. After the first year is up, franchisees receive ongoing training and support from the corporate team who provide the experience and procedures to be successful, system standards to adhere to, and a dedication to helping the more than 180 franchisees within the system grow and thrive.

New Creations

New Creations specializes in restoring damaged wood, leather, countertops, flooring, stone, bathtubs, plastic, and more. The brand has been in business since 1988, and has performed services on residential interior and exterior spaces, automotive interior and exterior spaces, and more than 100 surfaces, providing sustainable, high quality, and cost-saving repairs for customers. Franchise owners with New Creations are entrepreneurs who prioritize growing a successful small business and are creative people who enjoy using their hands and minds every day. Benefits of franchising include being a mobile-based business with low overhead costs, year-round training by master technicians, and access to proprietary methods and products within the industry.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Paul Davis Restoration

The restoration industry in North America is valued at $75 billion, and as North America’s leader in full-service emergency restoration, mitigation, and reconstruction services, Paul Davis Restoration handles tens of thousands of emergency claims and restoration projects every year. With 61 locations in Canada and 310 across the U.S., the brand serves insurance companies, national accounts, and residential and commercial clients from coast to coast. Paul Davis Restoration offers franchisee benefits including a more than 97 per cent success rate for franchises, relationships with national insurance companies, ongoing research and training on improved methods, a business model designed to generate high profit and create wealth, a supportive home office, a new franchise launch support program that works with the franchisee for two years after opening to ensure a successful onboarding, and much more.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Prep'n Sell

Prep’n Sell specializes in a “One Call” approach for real estate agents and their clients to help them sell their homes faster and for more money. Services provided include cleaning and decluttering, landscaping and trim, kitchen and bath upgrades, interior painting, and more. Prep’n Sell also includes the RENOmagic brand marketed to people in need of improvements to their new homes. The Prep’n Sell system is a home-based franchise that’s low cost, family-friendly, and offers unlimited potential in the booming home renovation market. With proven methods, a distinctive brand, abundant training and support, a CRM cloudbased software, and digital lead generation and marketing, franchisees can focus on building their business from day one.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

PuroClean

As one of the fastest growing franchise systems in Canada, PuroClean specializes in property damage emergency services. Services provided include specialized mitigation for homes and businesses following water, fire, smoke, and mold damage. The brand is a recognized property restoration provider by insurance professionals and property owners in a B2B recession-proof industry. There are a number of reasons why PuroClean franchisees find success with their small businesses: market areas offer exclusivity, easy-to-learn proven systems are designed to create and achieve success, coaching is provided by one of the brand’s most successful franchise owners, checks and balances help franchisees avoid costly mistakes, support is offered through a business community committed to franchisee success, and more.

Rainbow International

Since 1981, Rainbow International has restored hope and order to home and business owners who experience devastating damages to their properties. Each franchise offers diverse services which vary by location, including water damage restoration, smoke and fire damage restoration, mold removal, property reconstruction, cleaning services and odor removal, carpet cleaning, and more. The Rainbow International franchise opportunity has allowed more than 300 franchise owners to positively change lives, including their own, through a business that’s as rewarding as it is challenging. Franchisees benefit from a proprietary system, ongoing training and support, registered trademarks and a designated territory, abundant marketing, vendor discounts, cross-marketing opportunities from the Neighbourly® parent brand, and much more.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Revivify Painting

With headquarters based in Ottawa, Ontario, Revivify Painting provides interior and exterior painting services as well as minor drywall repairs. The brand believes in prioritizing the client experience and building a team of employees rather than contractors, to help grow a positive reputation within each community. Services offered include interior painting, and drywall repair in interior spaces, as well as siding, sheds, decks and fences in exterior spaces. Franchisees with Revivify Painting receive the time to focus on providing the highest level of painting expertise and service to their customers, while head office provides many of the necessary business mechanics.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Servpro

Servpro is a leader in the U.S. market for fire, water, mold, and other cleanup and restoration services, and has now expanded into Canada. Franchise professionals with the brand respond to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Franchisees with Servpro benefit from the brand name, exceptional customer service, ongoing training and support, and a proven business model that can serve as a pathway to business success. As part of the ongoing training, franchisees will complete onboarding and a pre-classroom program, work with a business development program specialist, participate in an in-depth 15-day training at headquarters, work with a franchise business consultant for ongoing operations, and can participate in continuing education opportunities along the way.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

ServiceMaster Restore

With almost 70 years of experience in disaster restoration services, ServiceMaster Restore is a trusted national network in the home restoration industry. The brand serves homeowners, business owners, commercial institutions, and insurance companies, offering emergency services, damage repair and reconstruction for water or floods, fire or smoke, mold removal, catastrophes or disasters, and more. Franchisees with ServiceMaster Restore are provided access to the tools they need to build a successful business and stay up to date on technology. They receive ongoing industrial and managerial support, participate in comprehensive training programs, have access to industry resources (as well as a peer support program), and much more. Ideal franchise owners have an entrepreneurial spirit and ambition for business success, strong attention to detail, and a desire to partner with an industry leader.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Wise Cracks Concrete Technologies

With 30 years of business success, Wise Cracks Concrete Technologies is a Canadian-born foundation waterproofing and concrete repair franchise that offers a lifetime warranty to clients. Services offered include foundation crack repair, sump pump installations, and basement waterproofing. Wise Cracks Concrete Technologies is seeking motivated, ethical business partners to join the growing family of more than 20 franchise units. Successful franchisees with the brand have a background in sales or are likely able to sell to clients, can work and manage a wide range of people, have strong customer service skills, and are willing to work within the framework and guidelines of a franchise system.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

ShelfGenie®

ShelfGenie specializes in custom made glide-out shelves for new or existing cabinets to help provide up to 50 per cent more storage and easier access to cabinets. Custom solutions are available for kitchens, pantries, and bathrooms. ShelfGenie is one of 12 Neighbourly® brands in Canada. Neighbourly® proudly empowers franchise owners to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams through unmatched business opportunities with attractive benefits. ShelfGenie offers a low-cost and low-overhead franchise opportunity that can be easily managed from a home office. Franchisees don’t need a workshop or warehouse to begin, since the brand manufactures custom storage solutions based on specifications provided by franchisees. Training on how to design and install the custom storage solutions is provided, until business owners will eventually be able to outsource to contract workers, allowing more time and resources to scale up the business.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Home Improvements Fast Facts

Over the next 12 months, HomeStars reports that of the people who already did home renovations during COVID-19, 77 per cent plan to complete interior renovations and 51 per cent are planning exterior renovations. More than two-thirds (69 per cent) of Canadian homeowners hired professional handymen to help complete their home renovation projects. Professionals were mainly hired for indoor jobs (45 per cent), followed by emergency repairs (32 per cent).

Source: HomeStars 2021 Reno Report https://homestars-public-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/ Landing-Page-Assets/B2B-RenoReport/2021_HS_ HomeRenoReport.pdf

100% CANADIAN FRANCHISE SYSTEMS

When looking to invest in a franchise business, prospective franchisees should consider new systems as well as those that are already established. With a solid concept, clear thinking, and strong management skills, getting in on the ground floor represents a real opportunity for franchise growth. If the concept is strong, being among the first investors is a bonus. BY DAVID CHILTON SAGGERS

Fairway Divorce Solutions

A drawn-out divorce can wreak havoc on the finances of anyone who has sizeable assets, says Karen Stewart, chief executive officer and founder of Fairway Divorce Solutions. Stewart—who’s divorced, herself—thought there was a case to be made for starting a company that could help protect the finances and parenting relationship of couples getting divorced. Stewart explains that the company will negotiate, mediate, and navigate on behalf of its clients, all for a flat fee. Canada’s divorce laws are comprehensive but not complex, she says, and she promises that Fairway will be “in and out of the negotiating mud in 120 days.” The average client fee per couple is $8,000 to $14,000, and the target market is those with assets that need to be protected.

Calgary, Alberta-based Stewart is a former stockbroker and is well informed about high-net-worth individuals. She began Fairway Divorce Solutions in 2006 and started franchising in 2008. She halted franchise sales from 2011 to 2020 to focus on same store growth and proof of concept. As of 2020, with her renewed strategy for growth, she now has 16 offices in her system, the corporate location in Calgary, and 15 franchises in Ontario markets such as Oakville, Kitchener, and Niagara Falls, and others in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Two franchises are expected to open this year in Toronto, and Stewart is actively seeking strategic investors and franchise partners. She hopes to expand further in British Columbia, Ontario, and Atlantic Canada, and have 40 to 50 offices coast to coast.

As for the qualities she looks for in her franchisees, Stewart says she’s interested in entrepreneurial owner/ operators with a high emotional quotient (EQ). Financial planners would be ideal, although she notes, “One of my best franchisees is a teacher. She has a super high EQ.” Increasingly, lawyers are also showing an interest in a Fairway franchise. But irrespective of training, her franchisees must have credentials behind them. They’ll also need a formal business office.

Training is offered both in-person and online. An online course takes 40-50 hours to complete, and there are six days of instruction in independent negotiation and resolution. There’s also a year of ongoing training and support. The cost of a franchise is $45,000.

The pandemic hasn’t affected Fairway as much as some other systems, thanks in part to virtual consultations. Many franchisees had their best year ever, Stewart explains. “We haven’t lost one franchise due to COVID-19.”

The benefits of a Fairway investment are its branding, high margins, high demand, and its target client, says Stewart. “To be successful, you don’t need a big piece of the market.”

Karen Stewart

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Mad Radish Gourmet Fast Foods

David Segal believes that fast food and healthy eating can go hand in hand. That’s why he’s steering Mad Radish Gourmet Fast Foods as its chief executive officer. Mad Radish began in 2017 with two stores in Ottawa, Ontario, and now has four there and three in Toronto, all corporate. Segal got the idea for Mad Radish—and its sister concept, Luisa’s Burritos & Bowls—while he lived in the U.S. “We’d like to bring healthy fast food choices to Canadians,” he says. Among the popular choices on the menu are Piri Piri Chicken, the Mad Caesar with a choice of lemon-herb chicken or cilantro-lime tofu, and the Smoking Gun Burrito.

With expansion in mind, Segal, who’s based in Ottawa, intends to start franchising this year in the Ottawa to Windsor corridor. Franchisees will benefit from the support of a world-class operations and marketing team and a hands-on approach to ensure their success.

Since the system is young, Mad Radish is focused on single and multi-unit investors. Ideally, franchisees should have some experience managing staff, appreciate healthy eating and, of course, have a positive, cando attitude. Training takes five weeks, three of them in a corporate store and the other two in the investor’s own location. The cost of a franchise runs between $475,000 and $600,000, and a store’s “sweet spot” is 1,400 to 1,800 square feet. Stores can be refits or new builds, says Segal, but they must be street front.

As for the effects of COVID-19, Segal says that before the pandemic, Mad Radish was very successful in the office worker market, but with the abrupt change in work venues, “we evolved our system. We upgraded our technology and our structure towards other successful models.”

The benefits of investing in Mad Radish are numerous, says Segal. Operations are standardized, there’s a strong branding strategy in place, and having Mad Radish and Luisa’s Burritos & Bowls under one roof puts two complementary concepts in one location. And he concludes, “The future of fast food is healthy.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Stallion Movers

What began as a delivery service for seniors seven years ago has changed focus over time and is now a successful moving company that continues to serve largely, but not exclusively, the seniors market.

Brett Ford, president of Stallion Movers, says seniors and those with homes of three bedrooms or fewer are definitely Stallion’s specialty amongst other available income streams. The brand recognized that seniors moves was a market that wasn’t being catered to, as they require an extra level of care and an emphasis on patience, empathy, and kindness.

The Kitchener, Ontario-based company is in the process of creating a franchise system for Stallion, and plans to start franchising in 2022. Ford explains, “We’ve spent the past year seeing what works, and where there’s opportunity to improve our processes—we’re constantly learning.” He expects his first franchises to be within a reasonable drive of Kitchener, and mentions such cities as Brantford and London in Ontario’s southwest. The hope is to start with three franchises, and Ford stresses that Stallion is going to make sure they work before expanding to ensure longevity and success. At the moment, Ford pegs the cost of a franchise—which can’t be home-based—at between $100,000 and $200,000 depending on territory. Ideally, each franchise would have a minimum of two to three trucks.

Ford is certain about what qualities he wants to see in his franchisees. Although a background in moving would be helpful, he says that a more important factor is attitude. “Our main priority is a focus on the customer experience, and we ensure that every step is positive and pleasant. We want people who feel the same way, and want to do things differently than expected.”

As for the benefits of investing with Stallion, the brand has built a network of seniors’ homes and retirement community partnerships within its current region, and can actively start conversations with retirement homes in each franchisee’s area to help them establish their business. Stallion currently has a strong reputation and even better referrals, Ford says. “Future franchise owners can confidently use our template and training to kick-start their own seniors moving business under the Stallion Movers brand.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Spread Your Wings

Millennial WingsUp! franchisee Vitul Patel is expanding his franchise ownership with new take-out only locations across southern Ontario

BY STEFANIE UCCI

When Vitul Patel arrived in his new home in Canada back in 2014, his first job was working part-time at WingsUp! in Burlington, Ontario. In between shifts, he was an electrical engineering student at Mohawk College, working towards a diploma to get his foot in the door of the engineering world.

But the 29-year-old franchisee originally from Ahmedabad, India, ended up taking a slightly different turn—into the world of business ownership of a quick service restaurant.

After finishing college, Patel realized that it was more enjoyable to work at WingsUp! rather than in the field he’d studied. He says that working 14-hour days at the restaurant was a breeze, but six hours of engineering had him feeling bored, which made for an obvious decision when an ownership opportunity popped up.

In October 2017, after receiving his permanent residency, Patel was asked by his former manager if he knew anyone who would be interested in purchasing her WingsUp! location in Hamilton, Ontario—exactly where Patel was planning to plant his Canadian roots.

“For a year and a half, I was a crew member and then I got opportunity to be a manager, running the entire restaurant by myself,” explains Patel. “When I got the opportunity to [take over and] own that business, which I had already managed for three years, it was the perfect opportunity for me.”

Vitul Patel, WingsUp! franchisee with two locations in Hamilton, Ontario

Fast forward to October 2020, and Patel was ready to spread his wings and purchase a second resale location in Hamilton.

Two thumbs up for WingsUp!

WingsUp! operates with a unique franchise concept as its primary focus is take-out and delivery. This gave it a leg (or wing!) up in the industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, when dine-in restaurants were shut down for many long months.

Locations require a smaller footprint of about 1,000 to 1,200 sq. ft., reducing overhead costs for franchise owners. On top of that, the brand offers a simple and unique menu focused around one type of protein—chicken wings—that can be tossed in one of 18 different sauces including classic, sweet, spicy, bold, dry, and sweet and spicy for guests of all appetites. WingsUp! also serves tasty appetizers including jalapeño poppers, perogies, potato wedges, fried chicken sandwiches and wraps, and more, all of which can be easily popped into a deep fryer and served up to guests.

Thanks to the brand’s QR system for ordering, Patel says it’s a simple-to-operate process, even in larger volumes on busy days.

And those busy days came about during the pandemic, when hungry locals were looking for tasty quick service restaurants to provide fast, easy meals to pick up and eat at home.

“Our type of restaurant focused on takeout and delivery saw a very sharp uptick in sales,” says Patel. “Our sales almost doubled in the period of about a month and a half. [The pandemic] was a problem for us, but to see those kinds of sales in such a short period of time was actually quite challenging. We had to almost double our staff, and everyone was working overtime in that period of April to June 2020, so we had to take care of our employees during that time. They were the ones who helped us—if they weren’t there, then we wouldn’t have been as successful.”

Just wingin’ it

At the time of writing, WingsUp! has 17 restaurants in operation, with 12 locations under construction, and 29 locations in development. Of those coming soon, three are Patel’s: he’s opening new stores in Georgetown, London, and Sarnia.

As a multi-unit franchisee, Patel doesn’t do it all on his own. He has two business partners who are also managers at his two Hamilton locations to add that helping hand in keeping the businesses up and running.

Patel also notes that much of his support comes from the WingsUp! head office that guides franchisees through every step of their franchise ownership process. Initial training includes a rigorous four weeks to learn the basics of the restaurant and how to manage and grow the business. After that, franchisees receive an additional two weeks of training from knowledgeable team members to help prepare them for their grand opening.

“WingsUp! is really great for its support system and I’m always in touch with my operations manager if I have any issues. If I need help, I get instant replies,” says Patel, noting that even when he visits his hometown in India, he’s still able to communicate with the head office team to get support for his restaurants being run by his business partners in Canada.

The brand also conducts an operational audit in each store once a month to ensure franchisees are following systems and processes, while noting if there are any issues and how they can be fixed.

When it comes to marketing, Patel adds, “Every quarter we sit down with our marketing [manager] to look at data, sales, the performance of our last part of the marketing plan, if we can run the same promotions again, what needs changing, and advertisements. I personally keep track of sales on a weekly basis to help myself [monitor how the restaurants are performing.]”

More than just a Monday to fry-day

So far, Patel says he’s had a “very good experience” with WingsUp! and notes that the biggest benefit of being a business owner is the flexibility to choose his own schedule. “Some people don’t get that flexibility and have to work 14 hours, but it’s part of being [a franchisee] and it’s allowed me the opportunity to grow constantly,” he notes.

As a millennial franchisee, Patel had the benefit of working at his future franchise for a few years before taking over as owner, so that the franchise systems and processes were already familiar to him, and he established contacts with knowledgeable members in the industry who “helped me hire some very good people.”

But Patel also notes that one of his main challenges early into his franchise ownership was with hiring. “When I took over the store, the first thing I did was build a solid employee base. The reason for that was I didn’t [and still don’t] want [high turnover] of employees in my restaurant, because I know when that happens, it reflects on the quality and service,” he explains. “So, I made sure that I had good people and that I trained them. Most are working with me right now and some [became] business partners in my other locations. When I hire [new workers], I talk about what their future goals are in order to make sure I don’t just hire an employee, but I try to see them as a future manager because we’re constantly growing and need people who can run the store.”

As for advice Patel has for future franchisees, he says that franchising is a “very safe” business model to consider. “Franchising is a very good way to start, especially if you’re a new [entrepreneur.] You have a lot of support from head office for operational and marketing support, especially if you don’t know the industry. If there’s already been proven systems, I’d rather follow that and get myself successful using that system.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

THE CODE TO SUCCESS

Code Wiz founder and CEO Ruth Agbaji shares her vision of reaching one billion children worldwide

BY STEFANIE UCCI

When most franchisors establish their franchise system, they may go into their new business endeavour with an audacious business goal in mind.

For Code Wiz CEO, founder, and “nerd-in-chief” Ruth Agbaji, her big vision for the educational coding franchise is a magic number: to reach one billion children across the world.

“I believe that every child has an inner genius in them that’s waiting to be unlocked … everybody has some sort of genius in them,” explains Agbaji. “I’m trying to empower as many kids as I can to unlock that inner genius through coding and robotics.”

Code Wiz is an educational franchise where students can develop coding and programming skills—as well as critical thinking and problem-solving abilities—regardless of age, tech proficiency, or personal interests. Agbaji founded the brand in 2017 and began franchising in 2019 with the goal of reaching more children across the U.S. and beyond.

Making the move

Agbaji grew up in Nigeria, and even as a young child, she had a passion and drive to do and be more in life. As a college student in her fourth year of an electrical engineering degree, she says she felt like she wasn’t learning much because of a lot of the knowledge she was being taught was theoretical rather than practical. Tack on the challenges of being a young woman in the male-dominated engineering field and the fact that the program had only one piece of equipment to be shared by 50 students, and Agbaji realized that her potential wasn’t being fulfilled as much as she’d hoped.

These academic challenges coupled with her drive to express her full skillsets led to creating a “big project” for her college, using code to solve the problem of collecting assessments for large classes.

“I very quickly ran into errors and mistakes—if you’ve ever tried to code then you know what that looks like,” explains Agbaji. “But I didn’t want to give up. I felt like I always wanted to get out and this might be my ticket out [of Nigeria]. I had to keep going and be resourceful and find a way to fix the problem.”

After “randomly Googling the problem, as all awesome software engineers do,” Agbaji says she was mentored over email to help her add the finishing touches to her big project. Then, she decided to apply to colleges outside of Nigeria to see if she could get a scholarship. That eventually led her to Tufts University, which ended up being her ticket to the U.S. and to bringing the Code Wiz brand to life in her new town in Massachusetts.

“Originally when I started Code Wiz, my goal at that time was having five locations in Massachusetts. Then I would feel accomplished and fulfilled,” she notes. “Life happened and I wasn’t able to open more corporate centres, but I could see the demand of what our competitors were doing.”

Today, she has the drive to make the brand a household name and reach as many children as possible. “When I sat down and looked at it, I knew that I could be hyper focused on my goal, and I can keep knocking things out of the way until I get there. I knew I could do this on my own if I wanted to, but this might be a whole lot faster and easier if I partner with the right people.”

“MY EIGHT-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER MADE ME A CARD AND WROTE, ‘CONGRATULATIONS MOM. I CAN’T WAIT FOR CODE WIZ TO REACH ONE BILLION KIDS.’ I SAID, ‘BOOM! THAT’S IT. THAT’S OUR VISION STATEMENT. THAT’S THE NUMBER THAT WE’RE GOING TO REACH.’”

- Ruth Agbaji

Acquiring a helping hand

As a wife and mom of two children, aged five and eight, Agbaji decided that she wanted to spend more time with her family and steer away from working the dawnto-dusk, 14-hour days that were required of her as the brand’s leader.

In order to let Code Wiz grow and flourish as a franchise system, she recognized that she needed to bring in an outside party to add a helping hand. That led to the brand’s acquisition by parent company, Clear Summit Group. Agbaji says she loved their values as a purposedriven company with businesspeople who aren’t all about the money, but much more than that. “One of the

things that I really love about them is that they’re betting on you, the founder.”

Before the acquisition, Agbaji was only taking on as many franchisees as she could support. Now, she has the support of Clear Summit Group to grow more quickly, since it has a team that’s dedicated to assisting franchisees in their business journeys.

It was after this grand business move that Agbaji’s daughter helped spark her big goal. “After we got the acquisition, my eight-year-old daughter made me a card and wrote, ‘Congratulations mom. I can’t wait for Code Wiz to reach one billion kids.’ I said, ‘Boom! That’s it. That’s our vision statement. That’s the number that we’re going to reach.’ It seems insurmountable—I think that’s like half the population of kids in the world. But anything and everything is possible so I’m running with that.”

Crushing the obstacles

As most franchisors and business owners will know, the trek to get the Code Wiz business up and running had its own set of unique challenges that Agbaji faced head on and knocked down as they came.

“Life throws different challenges at us, and things that we have to deal with, and that’s just the first thing to get over,” notes Agbaji. “Some people have more challenges than others, but life in general just has obstacles, and that’s not going to stop you from doing what it is that you feel you were made to do.”

She explains that being an entrepreneur can get lonely because not everyone understands the long hours and hard work it takes to be a business owner or a franchisor getting their organization up and running. “You often have people around you who absolutely love you and want the best for you, but they’re like, ‘Can’t you just stop working? Shouldn’t you go to bed?’ I say, ‘I’d love to go to bed but … this has to happen, this needs to get done!’ Sometimes that can be isolating, when your family and loved ones don’t quite get the drive and the need to really keep pushing and not give up.”

But Agbaji says she powers through by trying not to overthink things, while hyper focusing on the end goal. Plus, it helps to surround yourself with people who are battling the same obstacles as you are. “Understand that the best laid plans always have challenges—things go wrong, and things change,” she adds. “The joy at the end of the goal is going to be permanent so I’m going to be focused on the joy that I’m getting when I hit the goal.”

As Code Wiz begins to grow into the franchising sphere, Agbaji notes that it’s important to work closely with her franchisees to move the brand forward, together. The culture is one of collaboration, where everyone works in the business with the mindset of, “If you’re successful, we’re all successful.” She says she’s looking for franchisees who thrive in a collaborative culture, are happy to work with other people, are entrepreneurial, and see making an impact on the next generation of children as part of their ROI and reason for starting a business in the education industry.

“One of the things that I have learned through my franchising journey is that we’re better together and we are stronger together,” says Agbaji. “Fix your mindset, surround yourself with people that care and believe in you more than you believe in yourself. Just get going, take one step at a time.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Aleena Zaidi and Bilal Zaidi

Families Helping Families

Brother-and-sister duo Aleena and Bilal Zaidi dive into what a typical day looks like at their Angus Valley Montessori School franchise

BY GEORGIE BINKS

Opening a preschool franchise location during a pandemic means you need to be flexible. You may have just figured out your typical day when everything changes and your schedule, procedures, and more get turned upside down.

That’s what Aleena and Bilal Zaidi, a brother and sister franchising team, discovered when they opened their Angus Valley Montessori School location in September 2021.

The two, originally born in Canada, were raised in Pakistan and then returned to Canada for university. They say they work well together—as Aleena explains, “We depend on each other. If you have a sibling, you have to be there for them.”

The first challenges the two faced were delays in opening their Vaughan, Ontario location. The pair originally hoped to open in 2020, and then in summer 2021, Bilal says. “There were a lot of delays, labour shortages, and restrictions by York Region on how many people you could have in the building, [as little as] one tradesman at a time. We anticipated we would be open for summer camp, but that was pushed back.”

By September 2021, the school was ready to open its doors. “Because it was a new school, teachers had their hands full and we really couldn’t have parents coming inside, so we had our grand opening [take place] in October,” Bilal explains. The grand opening was a highlight for the new business owner. “We set up a tent and parents met all the teachers. That put a face to the names.”

Establishing the day-to-day operations

Once they opened, the Zaidis needed to be ready for a different kind of experience. “The first month was intense,” Aleena says. “It was all hands on deck; everyone was here at 7 a.m. because it was so new. Now we’ve worked out what’s best for each person between me, Bilal, and our supervisor.”

Aleena comes into work at about 8 to 8:30 a.m., while Bilal arrives between 8:30 to 9:00 a.m. Bilal handles the back-office responsibilities and Aleena manages the day-to-day parent-based operations. “We also have our supervisor. She and I are up front, meeting with parents, doing pick up and drop off and working on day-to-day tasks,” says Aleena. “My day ends at about 5:30 p.m., but we still have a lot of tours [with interested parents], and we can’t do the tours when school is running, so I schedule them for after hours.”

One huge change brought by the pandemic is that following COVID-19 restrictions, parents haven’t been permitted in the building. “Typically when you drop off a child at a new place, parents would be allowed to come in, observe, and stay in the classroom for an hour. That’s not something we can do right now,” explains Aleena.

That’s actually been a positive, though. She adds, “It’s really shortened the transition time for children to settle in. Before, I think it was harder for parents to leave their children for the first time more than [it was for] the children.”

Still, Aleena says it’s vital to keep in touch and update parents about their kids. “We stay connected with them throughout the day through our apps.”

Seeing how quickly the children settled into their new environment was a high point for Aleena. “I expected the fears and not wanting to come in to last much longer, but that ended very quickly. That’s definitely the highlight of my day: children enjoying the space [we created].”

Keeping children in good (and clean) hands

When it comes to COVID-19 protocols, Aleena says teachers must wear masks, but it’s up to parents whether their children do. The children wash their hands a lot. “Because they’re kids, they touch everything, so there’s a lot of handwashing going on before each activity and each transition between activities.”

“Since it was a new school, we took COVID-19 into account,” Bilal says. “We converted faucets to be touchless, as well as soap and paper towel dispensers. Angus Valley partners with Eco Lab”—a provider of medicalgrade cleaning and hygiene solutions—“who provides hospital-grade hand sanitizer. It has the quickest kill time for the COVID-19 virus and is child-friendly as well. As protocol changes, our policy gets updated.”

The franchise caters to children aged six months to six years, and uses a customized curriculum designed for each age group within the school. Programs are based on the method developed by Dr. Maria Montessori—who pioneered the use of exploration and child-led activities in teaching—and incorporate art, music, move-

Left to right: Murtaza Hasan, AVMS Founding Partner, Bilal Zaidi, Aleena Zaidi, Sunil Bhardwaj, AVMS Founding Partner, Syeda Hasnain AVMS Director of Education, and Saneh Bhardwaj, AVMS Operations.

ment, drama, and play. The first location was opened in Markham, Ontario by Murtaza and Syeda Hasan in 2013, under the name Angus Glen Montessori. Today, the franchise operates as Angus Valley Montessori, and has locations operating in Pickering, Milton, and Vaughan, and one under construction in mid-town Toronto. The brand has another five locations at various planning stages all in southwestern Ontario and hopes to expand to western Canada and the U.S.

The brother-sister duo speak very highly of the Angus Valley Montessori franchise. “You benefit from the experience of being with an establishment that’s been around for [years]. I think there’s been a lot of thought put into the curriculum and the design of the school. They have the experience—all the details have been thought through.”

Aleena adds, “When we started, there was a lot to think of because there are young children in your care. There are all these policies, and everything needs to be in place. It’s a lot for someone to take on. I think being part of a franchise is great because it’s laid out for you.”

She also values her interaction with other franchisees. “It’s not your typical cookie-cutter franchise. When you go to the other locations, they have the same feel in terms of design and aesthetics, but as owners, you get to inject your personality. Most of the franchisees know each other. It’s nice to interact with other franchisees who are going through exactly what we’re going through.”

Aleena had already worked for the franchise for two and a half years, running their art camps, before working in administration, as well as in all the classrooms, to get a feel for how the franchise operated. During this time, she also qualified as an ECE (Early Childhood Educator).

“Having some experience in business and education definitely helps to implement your vision,” says Aleena. “Being a franchisee, things were laid out for us, but we also hired a supervisor who has an educational background. Our supervisor has been in the education business for 20 years.”

AVMS founder Hasan says the Zaidis are wonderful franchisees. “Aleena and Bilal belong to a family of successful entrepreneurs and have seen firsthand how an independent business operates and thrives. As children, they attended a Montessori pre-school before entering a private school setting and recognize the importance this experience had in preparing them for primary school, as well as teaching them lifelong skills. The fact that education and learning were emphasized at home make them excellent ambassadors for providing new generations of children an equally positive early learning experience.”

Aleena concludes, “I love working with children and it’s been nice connecting with families. Our primary goal was to provide reliable care for parents. There are so many families going back to work. I can’t even imagine how tough that must be if I had just dropped off my children for eight hours at a place that I had no idea about. So, our goal has been to make families feel like their child is in good hands.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Signed, Sealed, Delivered

Franchisee Al Junaidi explains how InXpress ticked all the boxes for the first year of his franchise journey

BY JORDAN WHITEHOUSE

When Iyad Al Junaidi became an InXpress franchisee in November 2019, he had no experience in the shipping industry. He did, however, have a goal to start his own business, plus more than 15 years of working in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries behind him. There, he’d held various sales, marketing, and directorial roles for companies like Pfizer, Allergan, KCI, and Getinge group.

The connections between that background and a shipping franchise might not be obvious, but Al Junaidi sees the relation on a more macro perspective. “I was exposed to state-of-the-art operational and management systems and methods at all of these companies,” he says. “So, I know when I see really good practices. And I saw those at InXpress.”

Founded in 1999 in the United Kingdom, InXpress provides domestic and international shipping services to small- and mid-sized businesses across the world. By partnering with carriers like DHL and utilizing its online shipping software, Webship+, InXpress automates the shipping process and provides discounted rates to businesses. The company began franchising in 2000, and today there are more than 400 franchise locations worldwide, including more than 30 across Canada.

Al Junaidi’s location is in Dundas, Ontario, just west of Hamilton. Although he recognized InXpress’s exemplary practices, he took about six months to do his due diligence before joining the company and jumping into that first year. “I wanted a company with a proven sales record and a scalable, profitable business model, plus one with a growing market and repeat business,” he says. “I also wanted to know that I could compete in the market and that there were upselling opportunities, because that’s all about sales and service, which I’m interested in and good at.”

InXpress ticked all those boxes, he says. So, in late 2019, he signed. The next year would be filled with excitement and uncertainty as he learned the ins and outs of InXpress and the shipping industry. He would also be confronted with the realities of a pandemic that forced him to rethink how he would reach prospective clients. Despite these challenges, by the end of that first year, he would be handed InXpress Canada’s Franchisee of the Year Award.

Training for success

Another box that Al Junaidi wanted to tick with a franchise was a comprehensive training program. Again, he found it at InXpress.

The initial franchisee training included both an online program and two of weeks of in-person sessions at the U.S. head office in Salt Lake City, Utah. Both are designed to cover the key aspects of the business, including InXpress’s systems, managing carriers, business planning, and sales skills. The amount of information included was extremely comprehensive, says Al Junaidi, and part of it was delivered by experienced franchisees. “Not many companies use franchisees in this way, but that was great because it let you know that you were getting knowledge in a very practical way.”

Although it was a lot of information to take in, InXpress followed up with support for Al Junaidi from day one of opening his business, he says. That’s meant biweekly follow-ups from his business coach, a monthly best practice call, and regular monthly calls conducted by the Canadian and U.S. head offices to ensure he’s effectively implementing the business strategy.

The company also has rich training content available through its InXpress University and a franchisee dashboard, where materials include audio recordings, videos, and a variety of PDFs. Franchisees can also share ideas and best practices with other franchisees through WhatsApp and get support from InXpress’s help desk. “That ongoing training and support really makes InXpress stand out,” says Al Junaidi.

All of it amounted to a relatively smooth beginning as a franchisee, he says. His first few months were spent getting up to speed, putting all of his new knowledge to work, and finding his confidence. By about the six-month point, he started seeing results. “It was an exciting time. The business concept was really appealing, and it’s a very transparent system where you can see the performance and the results of everyone in the network. There’s also transparency in that they tell you what to expect. There’s a success formula that, if you follow it, you’ll see results. So that was really motivating.”

Adapting to uncertainty

As with any new franchisee in their first year, there were challenges. One of the biggest for Al Junaidi, particularly early on, was overcoming the uncertainty of working in a completely new industry. From logistics to transportation, almost everything about the shipping sector was unfamiliar to him. He says it was an uncomfortable feeling to be investing a lot into a business that he didn’t know much about.

But, he adds, that’s where the benefit of being part of a franchise system comes in. “I learned the key concepts and skills in the first few months, and then I noticed that if I applied the success formula and followed the system, then the results will come. It’s simple yet very powerful. InXpress provides the background support, and they manage the carrier relationships, but I have to focus on developing the business and providing excellent service to my clients.”

Then the pandemic hit, and suddenly Al Junaidi’s typical way of developing the business—through faceto-face meetings—wasn’t an option. He took this next challenge in stride, though, by improving his phone skills through webinars, books, and constantly revising his own scripts. Cold-calling prospects wasn’t easy, but he soon found that it was a more powerful sales tool than email and even in-person networking.

During those early pandemic days, InXpress also provided weekly calls on how to survive during tough times, shared best practices from its global network, and invited external sales experts to share tips on prospecting non-conventionally.

By the end of that first year, Al Junaidi saw his numbers growing exponentially month over month. “It was really exciting and motivating to see that growth and that I was building a solid base for the future.” He says that it was also motivating to win InXpress Canada’s Franchisee of the Year award after just one year in business. “That gave me a great sense of achievement, and it also assured me that I’m working with a company that has great leadership, acknowledges success, and rewards it. I’m very proud to be part of this system.”

Which brings Al Junaidi to one of his biggest pieces of advice for prospective franchisees: find a company that has your back. “Take your time to do your due diligence, and be sure that you’re joining a company that provides training and that has a good support system.” Of course, it’s also key to join a company with a concept that’s appealing to you, he adds, as well as one that allows you to grow year over year.

Al Junaidi says he’s so happy he found all of that—and more—at InXpress. “I feel privileged because I’m with a company that really cares and wants me to succeed.” Not unlike the big pharma and medical technology companies he worked with. “When it comes to training programs, when it comes to follow-ups, when it comes to improving things and adapting to changes in the marketplace and providing tools to franchisees—InXpress is as good as all of those big companies.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Fresh-Squeezed Franchising

Booster Juice has made a splash in the healthy food market, serving juices and smoothies to guests for more than two decades

BY KYM WOLFE

With its first store founded in 1999, Booster Juice now boasts 410 locations across Canada.

As Canada’s original juice and smoothie bar, Booster Juice was founded by Dale Wishewan back in 1999. He had a lifelong passion for sports and fitness and had been creating his own protein concoctions for years. Although he went to school south of the border (on a baseball scholarship), earning his BSc in mechanical engineering from Portland State University, it wasn’t until years later that he noticed the American popularity of juice and smoothie bars during his travels across the U.S.

The first Booster Juice location opened in Sherwood Park, Alberta, offering a healthy fast-food alternative for active people who were concerned about their health and wellbeing. Even Wishewan couldn’t have predicted how popular Booster Juice would prove to be!

“I had no food service background, and no pre-conceived notions about how the business should be run,” says Wishewan, who’s still Booster Juice’s president and CEO. What he did have was a belief that there was a gap in the Canadian QSR market that Booster Juice could fill. He had the goal of bringing fresh and healthy food to the masses, and project management skills to grow the business. By the end of year one, there were 15 locations, and by the end of year two, there were 50. Today you can find Booster Juice in every province and territory, with 410 stores across Canada.

A berry good franchise adventure

Jacques Lamontagne became a franchise owner in the brand’s third year, opening a store in the Orleans area of Ottawa in November 2002. Lamontagne had owned a sporting goods franchise in Northern Ontario for 10 years before moving to Ottawa, and says, “I’ve always been active and very careful with what I eat, and when I saw that Booster Juice was looking for a franchise partner in Orleans, the opportunity got me really excited.”

That’s typical of a new franchisee with the brand, which attracts partners who are passionate and have an existing knowledge base about healthy eating and wellness—and likely have been a Booster Juice customer themselves. Franchisees should also have a commitment to building relationships through personalized interactions, be community minded, and want to be a hands-on business owner. “We don’t grow for the sake of growing,” says Wishewan. “We don’t compromise on the quality of our franchise partners—or on the quality of our real estate. Part of why we’ve done so well is because of the variation of store types—some store fronts, some in office towers or malls—and being open to change in our stores to accommodate eating habits.”

Wishewan says he believes that 650 stores will be the saturation point for Booster Juice in Canada, and predicts that half of the new locations will be in Ontario, with the other half spread throughout Canada.

The majority of Booster Juice stores are in power centres and strip malls, which proved to be extremely beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic, since it allowed easy curbside pick-up and access for third party delivery partners. Wishewan says that typical Booster Juice customers are active, on-the-go people, and 90 per cent of sales were grab-and-go even before the pandemic, so not having an open seating area didn’t have a huge impact on sales. “These are people who want to get on with their day,” he says. To cater to their needs in a healthy manner, the franchise had already introduced a food menu to compliment the juice and smoothie menu.

“We don’t compromise on the quality of our franchise partners—or on the quality of our real estate. Part of why we’ve done so well is because of the variation of store types—some store fronts, some in office towers or malls—and being open to change in our stores to accommodate eating habits.”

- Dale Wishewan

Still, like many Canadian employers, Lamontagne experienced multiple challenges when the pandemic hit, from staffing to preparing orders, and then getting them into customers’ hands. “The first few months— mid-March to the end of April 2020—I did most of the days myself except on weekends. It was very difficult to drive customers in, so we had to go to them. We got help from third party delivery apps to be able to survive and get some sales going. Then our Booster Juice app [launched], and that helped a lot too.”

The Booster Juice app is here to stay, which has made serving customers quicker and easier in some ways. “People pre-order and pay through the app, so there’s no waiting in line,” says Lamontagne. “My sales are up 19 per cent over what they were in 2019. We’ve noticed an increase in food sales. It used to be four to five per cent of sales, now it’s closer to 15 per cent.”

On the other hand, Lamontagne doesn’t get to see customers and chat with them, so he doesn’t know his regulars the way he used to, and he says he misses that. “What I do enjoy the most is talking to my customers, [getting to know] them and what they want. For 20 years, I’ve been working in this store, and I know my regular customers very well. During the pandemic, people got used to ordering home delivery and many continue to do that. Now I can see deliveries going to the same addresses regularly, but I never see some customers.”

Wishewan sees how the shortage of workers has impacted the entire QSR sector, but says, “We’re in a good spot, though. We provide a fresh environment, no fryers or 4 a.m. start times, so in some ways, it’s easier for us to attract staff.”

Boosting franchises to business success

Booster Juice supports its franchise partners with field operations staff, among other things. There’s online training for new hires and a support team that can respond quickly to help with any challenges that arise. Each new franchise partner goes through a 14-day initial training program, a combination of in-class and in-store, to learn all of Booster Juice’s well-defined processes and procedures. Franchisees also get ongoing support from the Edmonton head office or the regional office in Toronto, which offers assistance to the eastern market. The company provides marketing and promotional supports, and coaching to tap into multiple revenue streams, including non-traditional satellites, catering, and school programs.

Back in 2002, Lamontagne found that not many people were familiar with smoothies and their health benefits, so he was educating customers as much as promoting his own business. Now smoothies are a mainstream product, and Booster Juice is a well-recognized brand. Even so, to build a Booster Juice business, he says, “You have to put in the time and effort. It’ll pay off—but it’s not done overnight.”

Wishewan adds this advice to potential franchisees: “Pick a business you enjoy. Each franchise system knows its own business well and has a way of doing things. Adhere to that, be hands on. The business isn’t going to run itself. Do your due diligence, ask questions and choose something that’s the right fit.”

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

4 FRANCHISES FOR $500K+

Franchising is about diversity, and opportunities may be found in nearly every industry and business sector. It’s a great way for Canadians from all walks of life to go into business for themselves but with the support of a franchise system behind them. One of the most important considerations for a prospective franchisee is investment level, including figuring out a budget that fits with your financial situation and goals. Here, Franchise Canada showcases franchise systems in which you can invest for $500K+.

Boston Pizza

Since opening its first restaurant in Edmonton, Alberta in 1964, Boston Pizza International has grown to become one of Canada’s most prolific casual dining brands, with more than 380 locations across the country that serve more than 40 million guests annually. Boston Pizza offers two experiences under one roof: a family-friendly casual dining restaurant and a lively sports bar. The brand is known for its gourmet pizzas built on top of hand-pressed dough. The menu also includes a wide variety of pasta dishes, salads, entrees, and desserts. Franchisees benefit from low food costs, ongoing training and support, no royalties or co-op fees on alcohol sales, and awardwinning advertising campaigns and sponsorships. The brand offers a sophisticated restaurant concept for hotels and a streamlined conversion program for existing hospitality businesses.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Days Inn

Under the stewardship of Realstar Hospitality, upscale economy brand Days Inn has grown from a handful of locations in southern Ontario in 1992 to a footprint of more than 110 independently owned and operated hotels across Canada. As a member of the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts portfolio, the brand is part of the award-winning Wyndham Rewards program that offers loyalty benefits for guests. The Canada-based corporate support team is made up of service-focused hospitality professionals. Franchisees with Days Inn have access to a wide range of support assistance, interior design packages, and a new Canadian-designed construction prototype.

International Workplace Group (IWG plc)

As the market demand for flexible workspaces increases, International Workplace Group is poised to provide customers with the opportunity to fully outsource their office portfolio. IWG is the world’s leading workspace provider, with more than 3,000 business centres operating in 120 countries. This network of office, coworking, and meeting spaces ensures that businesses can operate anywhere, without the need for set-up costs or capital investment. IWG seeks franchisees who have experience in a fast-paced sales and customer service-oriented business, understand how to operate and grow branded operations, and have the financial and organizational capacity to thrive as a franchise owner and pursue a path of future growth.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Tommy Gun’s Original Barbershop

Guests at Tommy Gun’s Original Barbershop are transported back in time amidst retro décor that brings to life 1930s Chicago or New York environments. The brand was created to fill a market gap in men’s grooming, and since opening in 2009, has grown to more than 74 locations across Canada and more than 90 worldwide. Tommy Gun’s offers haircuts, styling, and shaves, and is known for its signature relaxing scalp massages and old-school hot towel shaves. The brand takes pride in its franchisor-franchisee relationships and its quality network of passionate franchisees who are dedicated to world class service.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca

OUT OF THIS WORLD EDUCATION

2inspire’s Shafik Mina on leadership, his passion for franchising, and inspiring children through education

As the world leader in science enrichment programming, Mad Science gives children hands-on experience with science experiments in homes, schools, and even online. And for youngsters with a flair for art, Crayola® Imagine Arts Academy™ provides art enrichment programming to foster their creative side while learning about real-world topics and applications through art projects. One of the friendly faces behind these two franchise systems is Shafik Mina, CEO of 2inspire, the parent company that brought the brands to life. He notes that, “Our franchise concepts are focused on educational, engaging, and most importantly, inspiring content for children in various disciplines, [including] science and the arts.”

Mad Science has more than 35 years of history with teaching kids, but Mina adds, “When [Crayola® Imagine Arts Academy™] launched in September of 2019, [it] attracted more than 20 franchisees in the first six months. Unfortunately, this spectacular growth was slowed down by the COVID-19 pandemic. [However, now] it’s nice to see that momentum is starting to come back.” Here, the adventurous, entrepreneurial, and food-loving Mina shares the unique people he’s recently had the opportunity to meet, one of his most enjoyable activities in life (there’s food involved, of course!), his desire to sleep less and do more, and his hope to see his own children blossom into inspiring people, among much more.

The most interesting thing I’ve done recently is… I had the opportunity to work closely with two different astronauts who’ve been to space, as well as to meet a real-life princess. In its best form, work is… Inspiring, motivating, rewarding, and challenging in positive way. A good franchisee… Is either a great marketer or a great operator, recognizes their strength and hires against their weakness, and of course respects the business model set out by the franchisor.

A good franchisor… Delivers a strong brand, processes, and on-going support to their franchisees.

My top advice for prospective franchisees is… Pick a business you can be passionate about and work closely with your franchisor, as they should be invested in your success. My top advice for new franchisors is… Compromises made in early stages will be painful in the long run. Try to stay consistent and avoid exceptions to the rule.

The most important thing in life is… Health and happiness. One of the most enjoyable things to do is… Enjoying a delicious meal with friends, family, or even complete strangers. Food has a way of bringing people together. The hardest thing for me to do is… Lose 20 pounds. My favourite drink is… A well aged single malt whisky. If I could change one thing… I wish I could get away with less sleep than I actually need. If I could meet anyone, it would be… From a business perspective, Elon Musk. He’s disrupted many industries. I’m curious as to how he would disrupt the education system, which I believe needs a reboot.

The person who has had the most positive influence on me as a businessperson is… A mentor who gave me the advice early in my career to treat and care for the company I work for as if it was my own—or find a new job if I didn’t care enough. Canadian franchising is… An awesome channel that harnesses and develops the creativity and entrepreneurial spirt of the Canadian business sphere. It contributes tremendously to the Canadian economy and yet isn’t given enough attention by political leaders. The most positive influence on my life as a person is… My parents. Each of them, in their own way, provided me with a set of values, skills, and beliefs that make me who I am today. The key to success is… To work hard, be humble, be content but aspire for more, and always be open to learn, including from your failures. I’d like my friends to describe me as… Kind, generous, someone that they can always reach out to when in need, and hopefully, slightly funny. The accomplishment I look forward to the most is… Seeing my children blossom as good human beings and in careers they’re passionate about. My personal motto is… Lead by example and if you’re going to do something, do it right! One necessary item on my life’s “to do” list is… Visit as many countries and learn about as many cultures as I can.

Learn more at

LookforaFranchise.ca