Franchise Canada September/October 2023

SEE OUR STORY ON PAGES 12-13

SEE OUR AD ON NEXT PAGE

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT WWW.FATBURGERCANADA.COM SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2023

Join the Fatburger Family

Fatburger offers franchisees a taste of success as the brand expands eastward

BIG JUICY

BURGERS

MADE RIGHT Fatburger Canada is looking for passionate, qualified franchisees who are looking to build a successful franchise business with an established well-known brand with significant growth.

OUR FORMULA WORKS

WHAT WE PROVIDE

Established in 2005, Fatburger Canada is part of FDF Brandz, a multi-brand Canadian owned restaurant business with over 200 restaurants and a market leader with key knowledge and experience in developing successful quick casual restaurants.

• Extensive Training • Proven Operation System • Turnkey site selection and construction • Innovative marketing strategy & advertising

Development Opportunities for Western Canada, Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes.

Email: franchise@fatburgercanada.com | Website: www.fatburgercanada.com | Phone: 1-800-597-7272

DELICIOUS DESSERT FRANCHISES

FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

5 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE FRANCHISING SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2023

A Canadian Franchise Association Publication / FranchiseCanada.Online

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MEET THE FDF FRANCHISE FAMILY Explore the four FDF brands offering a range of opportunities across Canada

“Owning a Maverick’s is a dream come true!”

Abbey, Franchisee

Join Canada’s Fastest Growing Donut Brand! www.mavericksdonuts.com/franchise

CONTENTS FRANCHISE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023

CANADA

Looking for a franchise?

Discover

the best franchise business opportunities available now

Start a business for yourself with the support of a credible franchise system! With hundreds of franchise opportunities, LookforaFranchise.ca is the most comprehensive online directory of legitimate franchises available in Canada. We make searching for a franchise easy – you can find franchises by company name, location, investment, or industry. Begin your search now and realize the dream of running your own business.

21 COVER STORY

21

Meet the FDF Franchise Family This franchisor has been instrumental in expanding four beloved food brands across Canada

Get Started Today!

FEATURES

LookforaFranchise.ca

Delicious Desserts From vegan cakes to decadent chocolate, three dessert franchises to satisfy a sweet tooth

• Information you can trust • Credible franchise opportunities • Narrow your search • Contact franchisors directly • Get the info you need

25

33

Health Kick Three fresh franchises offering healthy franchise opportunities

4 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

41

Travelling with Taste QSR brands serving up global flavours offer a buffet of options for prospective franchisees

47

Full Service Restaurants Across Canada

59

Buying a Franchise Resale Location vs. Building a New Location Everything you need to know to make this important decision for your new franchise

62

5 Things to Consider Before Franchising Your Business An essential guide to making informed decisions and setting your franchise up for success

Franchise Canada is published by the Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

DEPARTMENTS

65

HOME-GROWN & LOCALLY-OWNED 100% Canadian Franchise Systems

69

NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING The Purr-fect Franchise Global Pet Foods multi-unit owner Amelia Kleinschmidt shares how she turned her passion for pets into a thriving business

73

LEADERSHIP PROFILE Building a Standout Signage Brand How Stuart Burns’ vision helped transform SpeedPro into a toprated company

77

A DAY IN THE LIFE The Mark of Success How a P.E.I. couple built a successful business while capturing memorable moments

80

THE FIRST YEAR Rural Canadian Meets Mediterranean Osmow’s franchisee Jatin Sapra brings Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours to small-town Ontario

83

ICONIC BRAND Tried-and-True Teaching Kumon offers franchisees like Neelam Bandali a fulfilling franchise opportunity that has stood the test of time

87

SHOW ME THE MONEY 4 Franchises for $250K-$500K

88

FRANCHISE FUN Bernard of the Boardwalk Martin Bernard brings Canadians brilliant franchise opportunities along with Boardwalk’s gourmet burgers

CATCH UP ON SEASON 7 NOW!

92

FRANCHISE TUTORIAL Tutorials 3 & 4 This issue: • Intro to Deposits • Intro to Disclosure Documents

COLUMNS

10 CFA CODE OF ETHICS 12 INDUSTRY NEWS 90 ASK THE EXPERTS 95 MARKETP­LACE 105 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX 106 GIVING BACK

LISTEN & LEARN

Tune in to the Franchise Canada Chats Podcast!

Available on Google Play, iTunes, SoundCloud, and Spotify

FranchiseCanadaChats.ca Visit www.LookforaFranchise.ca to find more information about the franchises featured in this issue.

Franchise Canada

September | October 2023

5

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

C

CALLING ALL FOODIE FRANCHISEES

anadians make 22 million visits to restaurants every day, so, it’s no surprise that about 40 per cent of CFA’s member franchise systems are food based, whether it’s dine-in, quick service, or another category. That means that of the two million Canadians employed by the franchise industry, roughly 1.2 million work in restaurants, while an additional 283,700 work in jobs in related industries. That’s a lot of people! But with so many options, which franchise is your best fit? That’s where Franchise Canada’s Food Issue can help with your research.

This issue is filled to the brim with delicious options for potential franchisees. Turn to our cover story package (page 21) to find four franchises—Humpty’s, Fatburger, Ricky’s, and Famoso from FDF Brandz—that offer a buffet of opportunities for would-be franchisees. After that, browse our comprehensive menu of full-service restaurant franchises in our Across Canada story (page 47) featuring options from coast to coast, from White Spot to La Belle & Le Boeuf.

Food franchises are resilient, and they can adapt to changing preferences. For example, check out our feature on healthy and environmentally conscious food franchises on page 33. These brands offer nutritious food without compromising on taste, a combination that many modern diners demand. Speaking of modern tastes, the global quick service restaurant (QSR) franchises on page 41 are breaking ground and expanding diners’ horizons with world cuisine. And what meal is complete without dessert? On page 25 you can sample some dessert concepts, with a sugary side of donut franchises for you to consider.

Next, let’s join some franchisees at the table and learn about their experiences as entrepreneurs. We walk through a typical day in the life of Hallmark franchisees Wanda and Lawson MacEachern, who own three locations in the Maritimes (page 77). Then, dig into the success story of Osmow’s franchisee Jatin Sapra as he shares his experiences in his first year of business ownership and his exciting plans for expansion (page 80). On page 69, be inspired by young franchisee Amelia Kleinschmidt, who is making a name for herself with her Global Pet Food location in Burnaby, B.C. And get to know iconic brand Kumon on page 83, which has been educating kids for more than 30 years. We also introduce you to SpeedPro president

Stuart Burns, who has doubled the number of SpeedPro franchises in Canada during his tenure (page 73).

This issue also contains helpful resources for anyone considering franchising, or just starting out on a franchising journey. The Franchise Canada team explores the key things to consider when buying a franchise resale on page 59. Legal expert Simi Solebo provides a breakdown of what to look for in a franchise agreement (page 91), and franchise system expert Gary Prenevost answers the question, “How do franchisees determine the perfect franchise opportunity?” (page 90).

If you’re considering franchising as the path to business ownership, don’t forget that FranchiseCanada.Online is here to help. The website is your online resource for franchise information, inspiring success stories, learning videos, podcasts, and more. Sign up for Franchise Canada E-News for franchising updates delivered right to your inbox, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Franchising is so much more than just food, with many different industries represented.

Explore your options at cfa.ca/lookforafranchise to find the right franchise for you.

Grab a fork and tuck into this issue packed with franchise opportunities, expert advice, and important information for entrepreneurs. If you want to own your own business with a proven concept and the help of a support system, now’s your chance to take the first step on that journey. Bon appetit!

Sherry McNeil President & CEO, Canadian Franchise Association

6 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

FRANCHISE WITH CANADA’S #1 CASUAL DINING BRAND! BOSTON PIZZA FRANCHISEES BENEFIT FROM:

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CONTACT US TO FIND OUT MORE: BOSTONPIZZAFRANCHISE.COM FRANCHISING@BOSTONPIZZA.COM

Boston Pizza and the Boston Pizza roundel are registered trademarks of Boston Pizza Royalties Limited Partnership, used under licence. © Boston Pizza International Inc. 2023.

CFA BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD CHAIR David Druker*, The UPS Store PRESIDENT & CEO Sherry McNeil*, Canadian Franchise Association 1ST VICE CHAIR Ryan Picklyk, A&W Food Services of Canada Inc. 2ND VICE CHAIR Todd Wylie, Master Mechanic

PUBLISHER

PAST CHAIR Gerry Docherty*, Good Earth Coffeehouse

Canadian Franchise Association (CFA)

SECRETARY & GENERAL COUNSEL

VP, CONTENT & MARKETING Kenny Chan

Darrell Jarvis*, Fasken

EDITORS Lauren Huneault, Karen Stevens

TREASURER Lyn Little, BDO Canada LLP

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Daniel McIntosh

CHAIR, FRANCHISE SUPPORT SERVICES

EDITORIAL INTERNS Hiru Batepola,

Kirk Allen, Reshift Media

Raavya Bhattacharyya

CHAIR, LEGAL & LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

Andraya Frith, Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP DIRECTORS

Steve Collette, 3rd Degree Training Chuck Farrell, Pizza Pizza John Gilson, COBS Bread Andrew Hrywnak, Print Three Franchising Corporation Rimma S. Jaciw, CFE, WSI Digital Joel Levesque, McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Ken Otto, Redberry Restaurants Gary Prenevost, FranNet John Prittie, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Stephen Schober, Metal Supermarkets Family of Companies Thomas Wong, Chatime *Executive Committee member

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrea Lee ADVERTISING SALES Radhika Karve AD COORDINATOR Andrea Lee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Georgie Binks, Suzanne Bowness, Roma Ihnatowycz, Joelle Kidd, Daniel McIntosh, David Chilton Saggers, Karen Stevens, Stefanie Ucci, Jordan Whitehouse, Kym Wolfe FRANCHISE FUN ILLUSTRATION Sam Gorrie FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION:

Radhika Karve rkarve@cfa.ca

TO SUBSCRIBE TO Franchise Canada

visit www.FranchiseCanada.Online The CFA wishes to acknowledge and thank these National Sponsors for their support throughout the year.

Find out more about these companies at www.cfa.ca/sponsorship

We invite your comments, questions and suggestions. Please contact us at editor@cfa.ca or https://cfa.ca/ franchisecanada/franchise-canadamagazine/.

© 2023, Canadian Franchise Association.

All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Publications Mail Agreement No. 41043018

LAW FIRMS:

SHOWCASED FRANCHISES

8 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Legal Disclaimer The opinions or viewpoints expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA). Where materials and content were prepared by persons and/or entities other than the CFA, the said other persons and/or entities are solely responsible for their content. The information provided herein is intended only as general information that may or may not reflect the most current developments. The mention of particular companies or individuals does not represent an endorsement by the CFA. Information on legal matters should not be construed as legal advice. Although professionals may prepare these materials or be quoted in them, this information should not be used as a substitute for professional services. If legal or other professional advice is required, the services of a professional should be sought.

CODE OF ETHICS

T

he Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) is dedicated to encouraging and promoting excellence in franchising in Canada. Each member of the Association agrees to abide by the CFA Code of Ethics and to further the Association’s goals of encouraging and promoting ethical franchising in Canada. Each member of the Association agrees to comply with the spirit of this Code of Ethics in its general course of conduct and in carrying out its general policies, standards and practices. The following are considered by the Association to be important elements of ethical franchising practices: 1.

Franchise system and franchise support services members should fully comply with Federal and Provincial laws, and with the policies of the Canadian Franchise Association.

2. A franchisor should provide prospective franchisees with full and accurate written disclosure of all material facts and information pertaining to the matters required to be disclosed in advance to prospective franchisees about the franchise system a reasonable time [at least fourteen (14) days] prior to the franchisee executing any binding agreement relating to the award of the franchise.

3.

A ll matters material to the franchise relationship should be contained in one or more written agreements, which should clearly set forth the terms of the relationship and the respective rights and obligations of the parties.

4.

A franchisor should select and accept only those franchisees who, upon reasonable investigation, appear to possess the basic skills, education, personal qualities and financial resources adequate to perform and fulfil the needs and requirements of the franchise. Franchise systems and franchise support services members of the Association should not discriminate based on race, colour, religion, national origin, disability, age, gender or any other factors prohibited by law.

5. ­­­ A franchisor should provide reasonable guidance, training, support and supervision over the business activities of franchisees for the purposes of safeguarding the public interest and the ethical image of franchising, and of maintaining the integrity of the franchise system for the benefit of all parties having an interest in it.

6.

Fairness should characterize all dealings between a franchisor and its franchisees. Where reasonably appropriate under the circumstances, a franchisor should give notice to its franchisees of any contractual

default and grant the franchisee reasonable opportunity to remedy the default.

7. A franchisor and its franchisees should make reasonable efforts to resolve complaints, grievances and disputes with each other through fair and reasonable direct communication, and where reasonably appropriate under the circumstances, mediation or other alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

8. A franchisor and a franchise support services member should encourage prospective franchisees to seek legal, financial and business advice prior to signing the franchise agreement.

9. A franchisor should encourage prospective franchisees to contact existing franchisees to gain a better understanding of the requirements and benefits of the franchise.

10. A franchisor should encourage open dialogue with franchisees through franchise advisory councils and other communication mechanisms. A franchisor should not prohibit a franchisee from forming, joining or participating in any franchisee association, or penalize a franchisee who does so.

11. A franchise support services member in providing products or services to a franchisor or franchisee should encourage the franchises to comply with the spirit of this Code of Ethics. A franchise support services member should not offer or provide products or services if legislative or professional qualification is required to do so unless the franchise support services member has such qualification.

LOOK FOR EXCELLENCE As you investigate the many franchise opportunities available to you, you will see a special logo featured in franchise literature, on franchising websites and in franchise tradeshow booths. This logo identifies franchise systems and franchise support services/suppliers as members of the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA). You should be on the lookout for this symbol when researching franchise systems or assembling a team of franchise support professionals to assist in your search. CFA encourages and promotes excellence in franchising in Canada and members of the Association voluntarily agree to follow the CFA’s Code of Ethics in pursuit of these goals. Start your search for your franchise dream with a CFA member.

Visit LookforaFranchise.ca today.

10 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

FRANCHISE WITH CANADA’S UNDISPUTED

FRIED CHICKEN

LEADER WE’VE GOT THE FINGER LICKIN’ GOOD RECIPE FOR SUCCESS.

BE PART OF A GLOBALLY ICONIC BRAND BACKED BY 7O+ YEARS IN BUSINESS, 27,000+ RESTAURANTS IN 146+ COUNTRIES, AND $23+ BILLION IN SYSTEM SALES.

We’re developing the restaurants of the future, with a uniquely digital focus. We’re exploring automation, smart kitchens, premium ordering kiosks, new order tracking systems, and a variety of innovations that will have us well-positioned to continue serving Canadians high-quality, fresh, Canadian farm-raised chicken under any circumstance.

KFC is is prioritizing recruitment in Quebec, British Columbia, Toronto and all small-town markets nationwide.

JOIN COLONEL SANDERS’ CANADIAN FAMILY. Franchise Application: KFC.CA/Franchise Real Estate Inquiries: KFC.CA/Real-Estate

ADVERTORIAL

JOIN THE FATBURGER FAMILY

Fatburger Canada offers franchisees a taste of success as the brand expands eastward

D

reaming of owning your own food franchise? Look no further than Fatburger, a concept that serves up mouth-watering, big and juicy burgers and an iconic American dining experience that has strong established Canadian roots. Discover the benefits of aligning yourself with a brand that has won over palates and markets for generations and take the opportunity to be part of a system that’s expanding across Canada.

The origins of Fatburger Fatburger’s origins trace back to 1947 in Los Angeles, California, where it was founded by restauranteur Lovie Yancey. Originally named “Mr. Fatburger,” the restaurant focused on serving substantial, fully dressed burgers and quickly gained a loyal following. In 1952, Lovie Yancey decided to simplify the name to “Fatburger” to “get across the idea of a big burger with everything on it,” says Raymond Ho, vice president, marketing & communications. The business gradually expanded in the Los Angeles area and gained popularity for its delicious burgers and friendly atmosphere.

Over the years, Fatburger’s reputation grew, and the system expanded both nationally and internationally to over 20 countries. The concept’s success is rooted in its dedication to fresh, quality ingredients and the ability to offer a customizable cooked-to-order burger experience, which means it can resonate with a diverse range of customers.

In 2005, Fatburger opened its first Canadian location in Vancouver, British Columbia under local award-winning restaurateur, Frank Di Benedetto. As CEO of Fatburger Canada, Di Benedetto went on to build the system of 70 wholly Canadian-owned and operated Fatburger restaurants, which are part of the FDF Brandz franchise system that has over 200 locations consisting of brands like Ricky’s All Day Grill, Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria, and Humpty’s Big Plate Diners.

Meeting the challenges of doing business Like every other restaurant business, Fatburger has seen various challenges over the past few years, including intensifying competition in the quick service restaurant

industry, shifting consumer preferences, and the impact of a quickly changing economy.

To meet these challenges, the brand adapted and innovated. For example, Fatburger Canada has carefully adapted its offerings to reflect the changing palates of Canadian diners. “Fatburger Canada had always been cognizant of what Canadians want in their food choices,” says Ho. “The variety in the Fatburger menu has been developed over the years to make sure it is not only enjoyable but customers can get a variety of food that is crafted to their tastes.” To address growing cost-conscious consumer trends, Fatburger diversified its menu to lighter alternatives and more value-driven choices without compromising its signature flavours, explains Ho. He notes that in addition to its burgers, fries, and milkshakes, Fatburger also introduced wings, chicken tenders, and a selection of chicken sandwiches because chicken options are gaining popularity.

The brand’s ability to strike a balance between classic favourites and innovative offerings demonstrates its commitment to meeting the needs of Canadian diners. “A key element of

ADVERTORIAL

success comes from simply creating great food,” says Ho. “Our burgers are known for their quality, taste, and the way they are crafted by hand and cooked to order on the grill using oldfashioned techniques.”

Furthermore, the brand has embraced technology to enhance the customer experience by setting up online ordering platforms and mobile apps, something that had been in the works before the pandemic. “During the pandemic, all the restaurants were able to pivot quickly and easily to a delivery system, with the aid of third-party aggregators like Mobi2Go, UberEats, SKIP, and DoorDash,” says Ho. These third-party delivery services have successfully extended the brand’s reach to consumers beyond the traditional dine-in experience.

By proactively identifying and responding to these challenges, Fatburger has demonstrated its resilience and commitment to staying relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

The ideal Fatburger franchisee The ideal Fatburger franchisee has a passion for food, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to delivering a top-notch dining experience. Ho notes that while a food service background isn’t necessary, it is helpful. The same goes for business or management experience. “If they have knowledge and experience in these areas, they can focus on building the business from day one,” he explains.

Furthermore, any potential franchisee should possess strong leadership qualities, the ability to adapt to an evolving market, and a genuine enthusiasm for the brand. “We look for people who want to be owneroperators, who are present in their restaurants and manage all the dayto-day activities, from overseeing the kitchen to running the dining room to taking care of customers,” says Ho.

Fatburger franchisees receive eight weeks of training, turnkey site selection, construction support, pre-opening assistance, and ongoing training and marketing support.

Why should you join the Fatburger team?

Fatburger is a well-known and iconic brand with locations in 20 countries, including the U.S., Canada, France, Japan, and India. It has a strong reputation thanks to its flavourful burgers and unique dining experience, and because it offers a menu that appeals to a broad customer base. “When a franchisee joins the Fatburger family, they aren’t just buying a business – they are owning a part of a beloved legacy,” says Ho. The franchise model is based on a proven concept that has stood the test of time, explains Ho. “This is an efficient system that franchisees can quickly adapt to. Processes have been well-honed over many years and there is continual guidance provided by a team with a high level of experience.”

Like with any opportunity, prospective franchisees should thoroughly research and assess both the benefits and challenges associated with operating a Fatburger franchise. Conducting due diligence, seeking advice from current fran-

chisees, and thoroughly reviewing the franchise disclosure document are all important steps in making an informed decision.

“Potential franchisees should visit the locations, and picture themselves owning and running the restaurant. It’s important to find the right fit, as there are many types of franchise options,” says Ho. If you’re thinking about owning your own food franchise, the Fatburger journey offers a blend of tradition and innovation that’s as enticing as its delicious burgers, explains Ho, who recommends that you align yourself with a growing system that’s setting the table for success across Canada and beyond.

What’s next for Fatburger?

With a strong foothold in Western Canada, the brand has its sights on moving east. “We started our expansion into Eastern Canada this year, opening our first location in the iconic Annex neighbourhood in Toronto. We are adding two more in Ontario by Spring 2024 and moving forward to open in the Maritimes and Quebec,” says Ho. With a proven concept and ability to pivot to meet the demands of a changing market, Fatburger’s expansion is poised to take a big bite out of Canada’s burger market.

To learn more about the Fatburger franchise opportunity, contact franchise@fatburgercanada.com or 1-888-597-7272.

Welcome to the future of customer service – say farewell to long queues and hello to lightning-fast transactions.

Our Samsung KM24A Self-Serve Kiosks, powered by 900Solutions' cutting-edge software, empower your customers to order quickly, boosting average transaction values and reducing wait times.

Advantages of Samsung Self-Serve Kiosks:

INDUSTRY NEWS

Your source for what’s happening in Canadian franchising COBS Bread Celebrates 20 Years of Baking and Community Action in Canada It’s a moment 20 years in the baking!

2023 marks the 20th anniversary of COBS Bread in Canada, and to commemorate this milestone, all of its 160 bakeries are doubling down on their commitment to COBS Bread’s End of Day Giving program, with the mission to ensure that no leftover product goes to waste.

“With the cost of food and groceries continuing to rise, many Canadians from coast to coast to coast are struggling more than ever to feed their families,” says Aaron Gillespie, president of COBS Bread. “This is why, at the end of each day, every bakery continues to donate leftover bread to local charitable programs in their respective communities.”

To help other companies, restaurants, and bakeries get started on a food donation plan, COBS Bread is sharing 20 years of learnings, insights, and expertise in a neverbefore-released downloadable stepby-step food donation guide.

“Our End of Day Giving program has been part of COBS Bread’s DNA since the very beginning,” says Gillespie. “It’s the fabric of who we are as a brand. We hope this guide inspires others to get started.”

The impact of a successful food donation plan can be substantial.

Since the first COBS Bread bakery opened in Vancouver back in 2003, and thanks to 100 per cent franchisee participation, over 500 local charities have received an estimated $560 million worth of product, which goes to help Canadians struggling with food insecurity. Last year alone, more than $60 million in retail value was donated. On average, each franchise is providing an approximate retail

value of $1,000 of baked goods daily.

Recipient charities include food banks, school breakfast programs, after-school programs, youth charities, and community groups.

As the fastest-growing bakery concept in Canada, Gillespie wants COBS Bread to be an example of how sustainable growth, combined with an equal effort on serving communities, has been a recipe for success.

“We recognize the immense commitment it takes to implement a food donation program, and we would like to acknowledge the tremendous efforts of all the volunteers, local community organizations, and our franchisees for making this happen every single day,” says Gillespie.

Fatburger Canada Opens New Location in Victoria, British Columbia Fatburger Canada opened its newest restaurant in Victoria, B.C., located in the food court at Hillside Shopping Centre. This restaurant is Fatburger’s third restaurant in the Victoria area and fifth location on Vancouver Island.

This world-famous burger restaurant chain is well-known for its famous big and juicy burgers made with fresh, never-frozen Alberta beef burgers that are hand-pressed and cooked to order on the grill, done the traditional way. Customers can enjoy Original Fatburgers, Specialty burgers, and other favourites, including juicy fried chicken sandwiches, world famous Buffalo wings, hand-battered chicken tenders, best anywhere milkshakes, fries, and freshly prepared onion rings.

“It’s exciting to be a part of the many new openings planned for 2023,” says Raymond Ho, VP, marketing of FDF Brandz. “We are very

16 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

pleased to open another Fatburger in Victoria as we have many fans here. It’s gratifying to know the community loves and appreciates the quality and value we have put into our menu and locations.”

Easily and conveniently accessible seven days a week, customers can dine in at the mall or have quick take-outs by calling in or ordering on the downloadable app available on their website. Customers can also conveniently find Fatburger on delivery services such as SKIP, DoorDash, and UberEats.

“I am very excited to meet our customers in the Hillside area and make them their favourite burgers,” says Manjot Chahal, the restaurant’s owner and operator. “I am looking forward to welcoming everyone here.”

Entrepreneur Ranks Kumon ‘Best of the Best’ of Tutoring Franchises Entrepreneur magazine named Kumon one of the Best of the Best franchises in the tutoring category in the July/August issue of the magazine, which honours the top-ranked franchises across 152 categories.

Kumon has been the top-ranked education franchise on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 for 22 consecutive years, the fourth-longest streak among the Best of the Best winners.

In 2023, Kumon ranked No. 6 overall on the prestigious Franchise 500 for the third consecutive year.

“Kumon is proud to be a leader in the education industry,” says Mike Shim, senior vice president of field operations for Kumon North America. “We are committed to providing an affordable franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs who want to make a difference in their communities and in the lives of children. Thank

A Driverseat Franchise Is Different Start your journey today

Investing in a Driverseat franchise is not buying a job. We have a proven business model that allows you to scale quickly and take advantage of the incredible market potential.

We are fixated on profitability and growth. We equip you with the knowledge, training and ongoing coaching to succeed in achieving your business goals.

“

I want to have greater impact on the industry, our partners, and the people I work with every day.

Money and success are just a measuring stick.

-Luke Bazely, President

”

We have built a culture of transparency, honesty, and inclusion.

We partner with people who share our values and want to build a great business for themselves. Mediocrity is not an option.

Start your journey with Driverseat today www.driverseatfranchise.com

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INDUSTRY NEWS you to Entrepreneur for once again recognizing Kumon as one of the Best of the Best franchises.”

Kumon Instructors operate more than 26,000 centres in more than 50 countries around the world and more than 2,000 centres in the U.S. and Canada. To meet the growing demand for education enrichment, Kumon anticipates opening about 90 new centres in the U.S. and Canada this year.

Entrepreneur’s Best of the Best list is based on information submitted for the annual Franchise 500. The franchises selected for the Best of the Best ranked the highest in their respective categories on the Franchise 500, which evaluates brands in areas such as costs and fees, size and growth, brand strength, financial strength, and stability.

Kumon also ranked No. 1 on Entrepreneur’s top 100 franchises less

than $100,000 and earlier this year was named to Entrepreneur’s inaugural Franchise 500 Hall of Fame. The brand also ranked No. 8 on the Top Global Franchises list, No. 84 among the Fastest Growing Franchises in the U.S. and Canada, and No. 14 on the international listing.

Canadian Immigrant Magazine Honours Sam Primucci with Entrepreneur of the Year and Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards Sam Primucci, founder of Pizza Nova, has been named 2023 Entrepreneur of the Year by Canadian Immigrant Magazine and one of the Top 25 Canadian Immigrants. The 15th annual Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards, presented by Western Union and hosted by Canadian Immigrant Magazine, took place on August 3 to celebrate the inspiring achievements of immigrants.

This award coincides with the yearlong celebration of Pizza Nova’s 60th anniversary, a business Sam Primucci founded in 1963, 11 years after having immigrated to Canada from Italy.

“It’s a true honour to receive the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award as well as the Entrepreneur of the Year Award among such an inspiring group of people,” says Sam Primucci, founder of Pizza Nova. “When I came to Canada 71 years ago, it was in search of a better life, and I am eternally grateful for this country that provided us with so much opportunity. Grazie a tutti!”

The first Pizza Nova location opened on May 12, 1963—12 years after the Primucci family immigrated.

The family worked to expand the business, creating hundreds of jobs and franchise business opportunities along the way. Sam continues to lead the company alongside his son,

• 34 locations, with more on the way • 65% of orders made Online • Turnkey Operation. Small Footprint • No previous experience necessary CONTACT US

FRANCHISE@WINGSUP.COM

(289) 834-2027

18 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

INDUSTRY NEWS Domenic, who serves as the president. Together, they are supported by a dedicated team of individuals who possess a deep appreciation for and knowledge of pizza and gastronomy.

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa Offers a Revolutionary Approach to Rejuvenated and Glowing Skin Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, the luxury massage and facial spa franchise, has announced the expansion of its menu with the arrival of the OxyGeneo™ 3-in-1 Super Facial at 17 locations in Canada. This innovative facial technology combines exfoliation, oxygenation, and nourishment in a single treatment, delivering immediate and noticeable results for youthful, rejuvenated skin and a radiant glow. With its patented approach, this advanced treatment provides a comprehensive solution

for all skin types and all of Hand & Stone’s guests, addressing a wide range of concerns such as dullness, aging, dryness, acne, and sensitivity.

“We are delighted to bring the revolutionary OxyGeneo™ facial technology to our valued customers in Canada, offering them a truly transformative experience,” said Lisa Rossmann, senior vice president of service and product at Hand & Stone. “This treatment delivers exceptional results, surpassing traditional facials. With the introduction of this technology, we are raising the bar in the skincare industry by providing our clients with the forefront of facial treatments.”

Hand & Stone’s investment in the OxyGeneo™ 3-in-1 Super Facial underscores the brand’s commitment to providing its customers with exceptional and innovative skincare treatments. With its

immediate and long-lasting results, the OxyGeneo™ is set to revolutionize the facial experience at Hand & Stone spas across Canada.

15th Annual A&W Burgers to Beat MS Day Raises $1.6M for MS Canada A&W Canada’s 15th Annual Burgers to Beat MS Day, in support of MS Canada, raised an incredible $1.6M. For 15 years, Canadians have rallied together for this important initiative to help people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and have raised more than $20M! On August 17, A&W donated $2 from every Teen Burger sold across the country to MS Canada, to directly and positively impact the lives of Canadians living with MS. Up to a month earlier, Canadians across the country could also donate online in any amount or round up any A&W purchase.

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Franchise Canada September | October 2023

19

INDUSTRY NEWS “For 15 years, Canadians have generously united in support of Burgers to Beat MS Day,” says Susan Senecal, president and CEO of A&W Food Services of Canada Inc. “Raising $1.6M will continue to fund vital MS Canada programming and resources to foster a world free of MS. We look forward to continuing this powerful initiative to make the mission a reality.”

The annual fundraising initiative is very close to the hearts of A&W’s franchisees and restaurant staff across the country, and this campaign wouldn’t be possible without their ongoing support. Since the campaign’s first year in 2008, A&W restaurants in Canadian towns large and small have been drumming up unique support for the cause to celebrate this 15-year milestone. In 2023, there were some standout activities. In Winnipeg, the Portage Avenue A&W built a stage and brought

together local musicians to perform live music. In the neighbouring province of Saskatchewan, Humboldt’s A&W went all out with visits from the Great A&W Root Bear, live entertainment from Regina artist JJ Voss, a raffle, and car show. In Amherst, Nova Scotia, the community met at the local A&W hosting a yard and bake sale, to show their support for Burgers to Beat MS. To unite Canadians to participate in this year’s Burgers to Beat MS drive, A&W partnered with Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman, TJ Brodie and his wife Amber, who has been living with MS for seven years. Despite this life-changing diagnosis, Amber continues to remain positive and finds strength in the support of the program to progress valuable research.

“Even though MS has no known cure, I am confident that one day,

we will live in a world free of MS,” says Amber Brodie. “The compassion from Canadians I have experienced through Burgers to Beat MS has been overwhelming, and I thank everyone for their generosity.”

Burgers to Beat MS has funded $20M to date for valuable research, support, and services that are fundamental to changing the lives of people affected by MS. But the battle against MS is far from over.

Twelve Canadians, on average, are still diagnosed every day, as Canada has one of the highest rates in the world, per capita.

“Our long-standing and valued relationship with A&W’s Burgers to Beat MS initiative has helped to make major advancements for the care of Canadians living with MS,” says Dr. Pamela Valentine, president and CEO of MS Canada.

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3300 Highway 7, Suite 901 Vaughan, Ontario L4K 4M3 | 905.738.5758 | fazzaripartners.com

20 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

COVER STORY

MEET THE FDF FRANCHISE FAMILY

This franchisor has been instrumental in expanding four beloved food brands across Canada

BY JORDAN WHITEHOUSE

Franchise Canada September | October 2023

21

COVER STORY You might not have heard of FDF Brandz, but chances are you know at least one of its four restaurants: Ricky’s Restaurants, Fatburger Canada, Famoso Italian Pizzeria, and Humpty’s Big Plate Diner. Many of them are located in Western Canada, but together they represent one of the leading privately owned food franchise companies in the country, with more than 200 restaurants across Canada.

FDF Brandz wasn’t always this big, of course. When award-winning B.C. restaurateur Frank Di Benedetto became the owner, president, and CEO of Ricky’s back in 1998, there were fewer than 33 locations under the franchise company’s banner. By 2015, however, that number hit about 140. And today the company is looking to grow well beyond those 200 restaurant locations as it eyes further expansion into Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes.

So how has FDF Brandz found such success across Canada? Raymond Ho, the company’s VP of marketing and communications, says there are several reasons. “For one, our restaurants have continuously innovated their menus to appeal to the changing needs and demands in the market. Plus, as a Canadian company with a deep collective pool of Canadian experience, we have insight into the local markets—from the towns to the cities and provinces.” More recently, Ho says that it has also helped that the company sources a range of locally produced food for its restaurants. That makes it easier to deal with the current challenges around supply production and pricing.

But a big part of FDF Brandz’s overall success comes down to its franchisees and the support system around them, says Ho. No matter the restaurant brand, the company provides six to eight weeks of initial franchisee training. It also conducts area meetings with training components every trimester, provides additional inperson or online training when necessary, and provides kitchen training for new feature menu and limited-time promotions. “We support with ongoing advertising and marketing support—from radio, TV, and digital ads to search marketing, loyalty [programs], in-store merchandizing, and community sponsorship,” says Ho. As for what FDF Brandz looks for in the ideal franchisee, Ho says they don’t need a background in food service, but it can be beneficial to have previous business or management experience. They should also be a selfmotivated and hands-on person, driven when it comes to the success of the restaurant, he adds. “And, of course, since we are in the restaurant business, they have to be interested in and passionate about food. We are also in the service business, so it would be good to have social skills that can help them not only service their customers, but also manage their team.”

Keep reading to discover what each FDF Brandz restaurant concept is all about.

Ricky’s Restaurants and Humpty’s Big Plate Diners Ricky’s origins go all the way back to 1962, when it started in Vancouver, British Columbia as a value breakfast restaurant called Ricky’s Pancake House. It has since expanded into more than 110 locations, when tallied alongside Humpty’s Big Plate Diners. Both concepts share substantial crossovers in the full service family dining sector. “Humpty’s is a relatively straightforward concept that, compared with many restaurant chains, requires lower levels of franchisee experience, fewer menu changes, and less refurbishment to be profitable and competitive,”says Ho. “This gives franchisees a great choice for maximizing revenue and taking their entrepreneurial ambitions to the next level.”

This dual-branding is a strategic initiative that’s been in place since the pandemic. The aim is to better utilize existing locations by dual branding them with a sister brand within the FDF chain; for example, pairing Humpty’s and Ricky’s. Currently there are six integrated locations, with 10 more coming by 2024. So far, this approach has increased sales without increasing rent costs for those franchisees. Within the chain, FDF has identified about 30 existing locations that have potential to be dual-branded.

In addition to the restaurants, a major focus for Ricky’s has been the expansion into hotel locations across Western Canada. To date, it has partnered with 25 hotelier groups to provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner not only to hotel guests but also people from the community. This partnership has proven to be one of the most successful strategic divisions of the Ricky’s chain.

“Like Ricky’s, Humpty’s was able to take advantage of the success of its value breakfast menu and extend its reach to build a robust lunch and dinner program,” says Ho. “Now it’s a forward focused full-service family restaurant chain with high-quality food and value that has big appeal for families and seniors, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner.” He also notes that the system has a serious commitment to community and charitable causes like the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

No matter the concept, however, customers can expect amazing service and exceptional value, says Ho. “Ricky’s is known as the neighbourhood family favourite.

Our famous big breakfasts have been appealing to multigenerational Canadian families since 1962, and now with

22 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

COVER STORY our lunch and dinner options, we appeal to even more customers wanting the fresh, home-style meals we’re known for.”

Fatburger Canada Like Ricky’s, Fatburger has its Canadian origin story based in Vancouver. The franchise started in Los Angeles in 1952, but the first location north of the border opened in Vancouver in 2005. Today, there are about 70 Fatburger locations from B.C. to Ontario.

The big draw for customers is—surprise, surprise— the burgers, says Ho. “Fatburger makes big, juicy burgers using old-fashioned cooking techniques to prepare cooked-to-order fresh, never frozen hand pressed Alberta beef patties that are free from fillers, artificial additives, and by-products.

But it’s not just about the burgers, adds Ho. “Fatburger also sets itself apart with its legacy music vibe and unique callouts in the kitchen. The crew have their unique, fun interactions when calling out orders and acknowledging tips and thanks from customers.” Furthermore, its chicken sandwiches, wings, and tenders have grown in popularity, to make up about 25 per cent of sales.

Fatburger restaurants come in several different models. Along with the typical restaurant, which is a 1,700 to 2,000 sq. feet high-profile end-cap corner unit in a major retail centre, they can also be found in casinos, drivethru applications, and express module size formats.

While Fatburger continues to expand its reach in smaller communities, it has also launched its growth into Eastern Canada. By spring 2024 it will have three locations open in Toronto, Ontario, and Quebec and the Maritime provinces are to follow in the future.

Famoso Italian Pizzeria This authentic Neapolitan pizzeria has indeed become quite “famoso” since launching in Edmonton, Alberta in 2005. It was acquired by FDF Brandz in 2018, and currently has 26 locations in Canada. “It’s known for the quality of the food it serves,” says Ho. “With a vision to create a pizzeria where everyone in the neighbourhood can

"WITH A VISION TO CREATE A PIZZERIA WHERE EVERYONE IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD CAN COME ENJOY ITS FOOD AND INVITING AND LIVELY ATMOSPHERE, FAMOSO PRESENTS A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE THAT GUESTS HAVE COME TO KNOW AND LOVE.” come enjoy its food and inviting and lively atmosphere, Famoso presents a unique experience that guests have come to know and love.”

That experience starts with the pizza, made with a similar technique used in Naples. The tomatoes are imported from the Naples region. The fior di latte mozzarella, invented in Naples, is made from 100 per cent Canadian cow’s milk. The flour is highly refined and lowgluten, making it easy for digestion. When that dough is hand-tossed, topped, and then fired in an authentic bellshaped oven imported from Italy, the result is a pizza straight out of the famous southern Italian city, says Ho. The atmosphere is perhaps just as well-known as the pizza, however. With its open-concept design, expanded Italian fare menu, and solid beer and wine options, it’s the perfect spot for a quick lunch, social evening, or place to watch the game, says Ho. This fall, Famoso will introduce “Pronto,” a new hybrid concept featuring Italian and North American-style pizzas, pastas, and Italian street food.

The first hybrid location is scheduled to open in Edmonton, Alberta late fall/early winter, followed by downtown Vancouver in the spring of 2024. This new format gives potential franchisees a lower start up cost, and it will feature both counter and table service to facilitate rapid production turnover.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2023

23

A Cupboard Full of Business Benefits For over 20 years, ShelfGenie has been working wonders by providing custom glide-out shelving solutions that empower people to reclaim control of their living space through better organization and access. Now, our second-to-none franchise opportunity puts your entrepreneurial wishes within reach.

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Built for Scalability Start with 2-4 territories of 125,000 households each and enjoy plenty of room to grow.

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A ShelfGenie franchise might be the lifestyle fix you’ve been looking for. Prime territories still available.

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This advertisement should not be construed as an offer to sell any franchises. The offer of a franchise can only be made through the delivery of a franchise disclosure document by or on behalf of one of the Neighborly brands 1010 N. University Parks Dr. Waco, TX 76707, 254-745-2444. In addition, certain states regulate the offer and sale of franchises. We will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with applicable pre-sale registration and disclosure requirements in your state. The filing of an application for registration of an offering prospectus or the acceptance and filing thereof by the NY Department of Law as required by NY law does not constitute approval of the offering or the sale of such franchise by the NY Department of Law or the Attorney General of NY. Not all franchise brands are available in Canada.

Delicious Desserts From vegan cakes to decadent chocolate, three dessert franchises to satisfy a sweet tooth

BY GEORGIE BINKS

Franchise Canada September | October 2023

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DELICIOUS DESSERTS

Chocolato For many people, nothing is tastier than chocolate, and if that’s you, Chocolato’s pure chocolate-based treats will certainly pique your interest. Sam Wadera, vice president of the Chocolato brand at Foodtastic, which bought the company in 2019, says, “The product is unique because of the pure chocolate we use. It’s in the dipping chocolates we use and forms the base for our gelatos.”

Chocolato also leaves a pretty good taste in the mouth of franchisees, says Wadera, noting that there’s not much competition in Canada right now. “The challenge is finding the right locations, demographic-wise and customerwise, and one of the biggest challenges are the supplies and product. Because our product is unique, we have to plan ahead of time and make sure suppliers are onside to supply at the right time.”

Right now, the franchise is working on developing 22 new locations. “We have increased the footprint in the last six months, added four more stores and have 22 new ones on the go,” says Wadera. “It’s a unique concept, obviously hasn’t been seen before, so we’re hoping that coast to coast we’ll fly with this. I’ve done market research and some of the places haven’t seen gelato out there. That’s probably one of the reasons the landlords have shown interest to sign these locations.”

“Locations who have signed with us are very happy that progress is running smoothly so far,” Wadera says.

“Our two main products are soft serves and dips. I don’t think I have much competition on dips. Our chocolate is very premium and thick. I don’t see many other shops doing that.”

Wadera says customer service is key for those interested in joining the franchise. “We need a hands-on franchisee who believes in the product, who runs their locations day in and out. I’m always a big fan of customer service. I’m also a fan of making sure the customer feels at home when they come in. I always look for that kind of franchisee with my system, that they understand and enjoy the product of whatever they are serving. They need to be attracted to and like the product.”

As for operations, Wadera says franchisees don’t need much previous experience because they receive training from the franchisor, including two weeks of online training and four weeks in-store.

“I am looking for basic skills where you can interact with clients and customers. If you can do that, the rest is easy for us,” he says.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

26 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

DELICIOUS DESSERTS

Nani’s Gelato With its Asian-, Indian- and Italian-influenced gelato flavours, you know you’re in for a treat when you try Nani’s Gelato. Parry Sohi, owner and operator of Nani’s Gelato, says even though some items—like pints of saffron cardamom kulfi—are always available, the franchise changes its menu every couple of weeks.

Nani’s started as a food truck. “The idea was to test the concept to see what kind of demand there was for gelato because there are quite a few gelato shops in Toronto but in terms of shops using fresh ingredients, fresh fruits, they’re pretty limited,” Sohi explains. “We find that you can get a better flavour using natural fruit.”

The franchise opened its first brick-and-mortar location near Toronto’s Yonge and Bloor intersection in 2020, and along with a second location in Mississauga, it stayed open all through the pandemic. Its first franchised unit located in Liberty Village opened in January 2023 and then a unit in Markham unit in July 2023.

Between December 2023 and June 2024, Nani’s storefronts will open in Ontario locations in West Toronto, Hamilton, Burlington, Milton, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Guelph. Sohi says there should be 10-15 sites by this time next year. “When we looked at the dessert market outside Toronto, there are no gelato franchises expanding coast to coast. We saw a massive opportunity, so we started aggressively franchising. We’re only looking to open 40-50 locations across Canada, as opposed to oversaturating the market.”

Sohi says a big benefit to franchising with Nani’s is that ice cream isn’t a seasonal dessert anymore and Nani’s is becoming a popular meeting place. “All our locations outside the downtown core have seating, so it’s becoming a bit more of a dessert café as opposed to other ice cream shops that are grab and go.”

Sohi says franchisees should have some experience in the food or restaurant business. “I don’t think people understand how labour-intensive restaurants and food can be. You can hire staff, but you’re always going to need to plug holes. Once you open your front door, you can’t close it.”

The ideal franchisee must be passionate about the dessert space, and love gelato, ice cream, and other frozen desserts. “Our franchisees are good communicators and inform us when they need support, and [communicate] with their staff on how to improve,” says Sohi.

Although serving hundreds of customers on a hot summer day can be overwhelming, Sohi says franchisees should be prepared to “work and push themselves further than they thought possible” to achieve success. It simply takes a little extra elbow grease, or in his case, elbow gelato.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2023

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DELICIOUS DESSERTS Eggless Cake Shop The franchise’s name pretty much sums up what’s unique about this brand. Eggless Cake Shop was founded in 2011

by Bill Aulak, a British-Asian entrepreneur. Aulak felt that a large part of the population wasn’t being served by traditional cake producers because most of their products contained eggs. “This meant whether for dietary, cultural, or ethical reasons, many consumers were left with little choice but to forego cakes altogether,” says Aulak.

So began Eggless Cake Shop and its network of bright, modern, and welcoming cake stores. The franchise sells cake slices, bespoke celebration cakes, and other treats that are totally egg-free, with gluten-free and vegan options also available. Everything from vegan unicorn cakes to doll cakes to gluten-free chocolate cakes are on offer, just to name a few.

Aulak opened his first store in Wolverhampton, U.K. and now has 27 units operating across the country. The franchise currently has two locations open in Ontario, Canada, in Brampton and Mississauga, with plans to expand throughout the Greater Toronto Area.

Aulak says the ideal franchisee has a genuine commitment to providing the highest-quality egg-free cakes to a diverse range of customers and communities. “They are

strong on customer service, leaders in managing employees, well organized, disciplined people who can follow systems, set procedures, and are team players. Franchising is all about the wider network. You will become part of a supportive family of franchise owners.”

All new Eggless Cake Shop franchisees are provided with a comprehensive training program covering every

Opportunity to join Global hairdressing franchise Just Cuts as it launches in Canada Just Cuts is the largest hairdressing company in the southern hemisphere, and we’re coming to Canada. When you join the Just Cuts franchise network, you enjoy the benefits of running your own business combined with the backing of a globally recognised brand.

Based on a no appointments, just walk in system, Just Cuts offers affordable Style Cuts for the whole family and performs over 100,000 weekly in Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan and the UK. The Just Cuts franchising family currently stands at over 230 businesses and employs over 3,500 Stylists.

You don’t need any hairdressing industry experience to own a successful Just Cuts salon, and over half of our Franchise Owners own more than one.

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David Mathie -Head of Franchising E: Davidm@justcuts.com | P: 61 448 063 235 call or message us on WhatsApp

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28 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

DELICIOUS DESSERTS aspect of the business, so they don’t need to have a background in baking. The program incorporates hands-on classroom and one-to-one training sessions for a total of up to three weeks at the beginning.

Aulak is very optimistic about the brand’s future. “The increasing demand for free-from foods due to the growing consumer awareness about the harmful effects of synthetic additives, preservatives, allergens, gluten, and lactose represents one of the primary factors influencing the market positively,” he says.

As well, health concerns are a huge concern for a population who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. “With the availability of gluten-free and vegan options, this is the market that can drive forward the growth of Eggless Cake Shop franchise,” Auluk says.

So, yes, you actually can have your cake and eat it too.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

MOBILE SENIOR SHOP T H E C L O T H I N G S T O R E T H A T C O M E S T O Y O U TM

Looking for a unique and flexible opportunity? One that lets you set your own goals, manage your schedule, and build a business that fits your lifestyle? Yes? Then we would like to hear from you! We are looking for passionate Franchisees who are ready to grow alongside us and bring Mobile Senior Shop to more communities in Canada.

Our mission is to provide seniors with easy access to stylish, comfortable and easywear clothing so they can look and feel great. You will gain access to ongoing support, training, and operational guidance giving you everything you need to succeed.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us at: mobileseniorshop.com/pages/franchise Franchise Fee: $30K Investment Required: $50-$75K

In Business Since: 2015 CFA Member Since: 2022

Franchise Canada September | October 2023

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DELICIOUS DESSERTS

The Hole Package

From playful sprinkles to rich chocolate to custom creations, donuts are an ever-popular choice for a sweet indulgence. Here are four great donut franchise opportunities for you to consider.

Maverick’s Donuts Maverick’s Donuts began operations in Ottawa in 2016 and quickly became famous for its unique recipes and exciting brand. With more than 40 locations open or awarded throughout Canada, Maverick’s is poised for continued growth. Franchisees work with the experienced head office team to find, design, and construct their location and receive full training and support. There are lots of prime locations still available.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Lee’s Donuts With a legacy of more than 40 years, this Vancouverbased franchise specializes in traditional, handmade donuts. As a franchisee, one can leverage Lee’s Donuts’ reputation, time-tested recipes, and operational expertise, while tapping into the ever-growing demand for delicious, nostalgia-inducing treats. Lee’s offers an organized and systemized franchise model for optimal sales growth.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Debrodniks Donuts Debrodniks Donuts is known for its delectable and diverse range of donuts. With a focus on quality ingredients, unique flavors, and eye-catching designs, it has garnered a loyal customer base. Franchisees can benefit from the established brand, proven business model, ongoing support, and the opportunity to tap into the thriving sweet treat market.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Duck Donuts Duck Donuts offers unique made-to-order donuts, allowing customers to customize their treats with a wide array of toppings. Its warm, made-from-scratch donuts and customizable toppings have captivated donut lovers worldwide. Being a franchisee means joining a successful brand, benefiting from comprehensive training and support, and capitalizing on the growing demand for customized donut experiences.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

30 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

SureStart(TM) Your New Business There are so many things to worry about… from finding a location, hiring staff, finding suppliers, talking to customers, arranging financing and more.

Whether a person buys a ‘turn-key’ franchise system or starts a business of their own design, the startup can be absolutely frightening and extremely time consuming This is why we created: SureStart™, which includes:

• Business Plan, Budget, Cash Flow and 3 Years Projected Financial Statements • Incorporation of the Business and CRA Registrations • Accounting / Bookkeeping System Setup • The first 3 months of bookkeeping for the business

Our Business Plans get you the financing you need - Guaranteed!

Call 1-855-LEDGERS to Get Started! email: clientcare@ledgers.com

Accountants, Bookkeepers & Tax Professionals Wanted!

If you have a background in business services, then Ledgers is the business opportunity you have been looking for!

Scan the QR code and start on your journey to success as a Ledgers Franchise Owner

Health Kick

Three fresh franchises offering healthy franchise opportunities Everyone loves hamburgers and fries, but there’s also a big market for restaurants that offer lighter fare for health-conscious customers as well. From energizing smoothies to vegan creations, explore these three franchises in the healthy eating space.

BY STEFANIE UCCI

Franchise Canada September | October 2023

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HEALTH KICK Good Earth Coffeehouse Founded in 1991, Good Earth Coffeehouse was built on the tradition of coffeehouses as key places for people to gather. Today, the franchise has dozens of locations across the country, from B.C. to Ontario.

Good Earth serves fresh, wholesome food including breakfast pastries and desserts. The brand specializes in espresso- and tea-based drinks to warm the soul. Guests can also choose from the menu of cold drinks and smoothies, soups, sandwiches, and more, plus featured items like summer mocktail drinks.

“Good Earth stands out because of its deep roots in environmental responsibility. [We have] made business decisions with environmental impact in mind since its founding,” says Nan Eskenazi, founder of Good Earth.

She describes the ideal franchisee as someone who truly enjoys people. “They have an enthusiasm for creating a welcoming environment and a positive business. They embrace the Good Earth mission of bringing people together, making ethical choices, serving our best—coffee, food, and attitude—every day, and fostering the greater good.”

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2023 CFA Franchisee's Choice 2022 CFA Franchisee's Choice 2021 Entrepreneur Top 500 Global Franchises

CEO, Oxygen Yoga & Fitness Jen Hamilton jen@oxygenyogafitness.com

Our systems take the complexities out of delivering a dynamic yoga & fitness program and give your studio an edge.

Exclusive Yoga Fitness Fusion Programming Methodized Instructor Training State of the art FAR Infrared Heat Network of Owners Sales, Marketing, Software & Operations Support 200 HR Yoga Teacher Training Accredited by Yoga Alliance

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34 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

HEALTH KICK

As for benefits for Good Earth franchisees, they can enjoy “the engagement that comes while creating a community-minded business,” says Eskenazi. “It’s a great way to align personal values like sustainability and social good with building a business—one that has meaning in the community.”

Franchisees receive five weeks of initial training, both online and in-person. Support continues after opening a coffeehouse, in areas such as product development, supply sourcing, marketing, operations, training programs, and more.

Eskenazi advises prospective franchisees to “embrace the company values and the spirit of working with the franchisor to grow the brand. And loving a great cup of coffee helps too!”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2023

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HEALTH KICK Pita Pit At Pita Pit, pitas are the star of the show, but there’s much more in store to entice both customers and prospective franchisees to this household name brand. Its mantra, “Fresh Thinking, Healthy Eating,” drives Pita Pit to always deliver fresh, tasty, and nutritious meals to people across the country.

It all began with humble grassroots beginnings in Kingston, Ontario, a university town in need of more health-conscious options for post-secondary students.

“Pita Pit’s late hours also helped the student population make it through nights of both work and play, helping fuel them through graduation,” explains Chris Cann, brand leader of Foodtastic, Pita Pit’s parent company.

“The brand’s expansion helped students nationwide get through college and university, and they remained loyal to it as they grew with their careers and family life.”

By introducing a fresh and healthy alternative to the standard QSR fare in 1995, the brand was poised for success. Today, Pita Pit’s menu consists of fresh veggies, grilled meats, and zesty sauces served up in rice bowls, salads, and of course, pitas.

Cann describes the ideal Pita Pit franchisee as someone who’s focused on community involvement and giving

36 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

HEALTH KICK

back, and has “fresh thinking” skills. “Experience in the food service industry is definitely an asset,” states Cann.

Franchisees benefit from three weeks of virtual and in-store training before their grand opening, support throughout all stages of the franchise journey, a digital training platform offered in both English and French, menu and product development assistance, and a dedicated marketing department and design team, among other supports.

In order to spark franchise success, Cann advises that you “leverage all revenue channels available.” And, he

adds, “Our best franchisees have a strong connection to their community. There’s no magic to being successful, [it just takes] effort, so a balance of strong in-store operations and focus on profitability is key.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

ONE OF THE STRONGEST SECTORS FOR U.S. FRANCHISES NOW ENTERING CANADA •

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HEALTH KICK Copper Branch Copper Branch is a 100 per cent plant-based vegan quick service restaurant (QSR) that takes nutritious, whole food to the next level. The brand provides minimally processed food with a focus on house-made and chefinspired recipes. Because they strongly believe plantbased can be delicious!

At Copper Branch, everything is oven-baked—nothing is fried or grilled in this restaurant. From fries cut in-house to homemade mango salsa, Copper Branch crafts dishes with the health of its customers, and the planet, in mind.

“One of the most beautiful parts of Copper Branch’s business model is the focus on collaborating with new and established innovators in the plant-based sector to introduce fun, exciting, limited-time offers,” explains Trish Paterson, brand vice president. “Some examples include our Nashville Chicken Sandwich, partnering with Atlas Monroe, and our Reuben Sandwich in partnership with Chef Doug McNish.”

For those looking for a franchise in the plant-based industry, it’s important to note that the customers are a much more niche group than those of mainstream QSR establishments. “The challenge is in getting people to try the food. There’s still a large population that will not try

plant-based. Our job is to get them to try it—once they do, they always come back!” says Paterson.

She describes the ideal franchisee as someone who’s passionate about delivering healthy food, and has a conscious mind for the environment and sustainability.

That’s why it’s vital for Copper Branch franchisees to “believe in the brand and always represent it,” explains Paterson. “Wherever you go out into your community, be prepared to look for opportunities to share the brand story.”

It’s also a huge plus if potential Copper Branch franchisees love to engage with their community, notes Paterson. “Giving back is an important part of the entrepreneurial journey. Look for ways to contribute to your community—it will create connections that supersede any other marketing investment. You are your business—don’t ever forget that.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

38 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

AWARD WINNING FRANCHISE BRAND Great franchising opportunities across Canada • Full Turnkey • High Level of Support • Canada’s Premier Smoothie & Juice Chain OVER 440 STORES & GROWING STRATEGICALLY

FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE For more information visit: boosterjuice.com/franchise-opportunities or contact: franchising@boosterjuice.com

Travelling with Taste

QSR brands serving up global flavours offer a buffet of options for prospective franchisees Long gone are the days when QSR (quickservice restaurant) brands were limited to burgers and fries. These days, hungry customers love exploring the globe through their taste buds, and QSR brands offering fast, far-flung flavours are a hit with diners. Check out these brands finding success in the QSR sector.

BY JOELLE KIDD

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TRAVELLING WITH TASTE

Chutneys Indian Grill “You go anywhere in the world, you can run into an Indian restaurant,” says Joe Sangha, CEO and co-founder of Chutneys Indian Grill. But, he notes, there weren’t a lot of Indian options in the QSR space. Sangha and his business partner Ronnie Sandher saw this gap in the market and opened the first Chutneys location in South Surrey, British Columbia in 2018.

Since then, the entrepreneurs have refined and streamlined the concept, and are now expanding it through franchising. The idea was to create something “fast, fresh, a healthier alternative, and affordable,” says Sangha. “There’s stigma attached to Indian food that people won’t necessarily eat it at lunch because it’s very heavy, very oily. We created something that’s the opposite of that. It has more mass appeal and introduces Indian food to a bigger audience.”

Both Sangha and his co-founder have been franchisees with other brands since 2010, so they brought a wealth of experience to building their own concept.

“We’ve been franchisees, so we know what it’s like to have a good relationship with a franchisor and a not-sogood relationship. And that relationship is crucial to the success of a franchisee and a franchisor.”

Now with four locations in B.C., they’re working on expanding Chutneys’ reach across Canada and eventually, the world.

With no established players in the Indian QSR space, Sangha notes, the business is a good opportunity for anyone looking to get into a high-growth area. The brand is seeking ambitious franchisees who want to become multi-unit operators. While it isn’t necessary to have experience in the food sector, it is a benefit.

The QSR sector can be a challenging arena, especially today when rising food and labour costs require franchisors to think creatively and adapt. “We’ve got to make adjustments, maybe simplify the operations, simplify the menu,” without compromising on quality, Sangha says.

Despite these challenges, launching in an untapped market has meant that Chutneys has immense opportunity for growth.

Chutneys’ menu takes a ”build-your-own” approach that’s infinitely customizable. Customers choose from “burrotis” (an Indian twist on a burrito), bowls, plates, or salads. Extensive vegan, vegetarian, meat-, and gluten-free options make things accessible for everyone, whether a guest craves butter tofu or chicken vindaloo.

“It’s authentic flavours, authentic Indian cuisine, it’s just served in a new and unique way,” says Sangha.

Going forward, the brand’s goals are to build brand awareness and to keep growing. “We are actively looking to grow in Alberta and Ontario, and then from there we’d like to keep growing and take it as far as we can go,” says Sangha, noting that they don’t want to expand too fast.

“A steady growth is what we’re looking for, with the right franchise partners. And then simultaneously create that brand awareness and let people know who we are and what we’re about.”

“We’re always evolving, always trying to improve. We have that vision.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

42 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

TRAVELLING WITH TASTE Loaded Pierogi “Our slogan is, ‘If it’s not loaded, it’s not us,’” says Irina Tirtirau, co-owner and culinary director of Loaded Pierogi.

This fast-growing brand is all about satisfying customer cravings. “Too much is never enough. We want everyone to come in hungry and leave satisfied and tell their friends.”

Loaded Pierogi started in 2014, as a full-service restaurant-style concept based around elevating the humble pierogi to new chef-driven heights. As the concept took off, the founders realized the potential of switching to a QSR model. Now the fastest-growing pierogi QSR in Canada, the brand has expanded its offerings to include five different “bases”—pierogis, mac n’ cheese, poutine, greens and grains, or a wrap—each of which can be piled high with exciting topping combinations.

Tirtirau, who came on board in 2022, has brought a 14-year background in hospitality and chef training to the brand, helping to expand the offerings in new, globally inspired directions. Popular new menu additions include the Korean cuisine-inspired “Gangnam Style,” the “East Coast Don,” a play on Atlantic Canada’s donair, and the American-style Chinese “Bang Bang Cauliflower.”

For franchisees looking to join the brand, Tirtirau notes that Loaded Pierogi offers a competitive advantage in the saturated QSR market. “For us, being a first-to-market brand, what we offer is intense curiosity and excitement when we open a location.”

Franchisees also receive extensive training and support, including hands-on training at a corporate location. “Should you ever need anything, as owners, we’ll come onsite and work with you. We don’t like the arm’s-length approach. We really believe in taking care of our franchisees.”

For incoming franchisees, a background in food service or hospitality can be helpful, but isn’t necessary.

Ultimately, Tirtirau says, Loaded Pierogi is looking for franchisees whose values align with the brand. “Someone who’s very detail-oriented, customer service-oriented, a people person. Because that’s the most important part of the food service industry, that service element.”

With 15 locations and 10 more in development, Tirtirau says the brand is “aggressively growing.” Along with expansion, the brand’s goals for the future include supporting its recent rebrand and diversifying its customer base. “It’s honing in on that rebrand, honing in on who we are as a brand, and making sure our customers understand that as well.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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TRAVELLING WITH TASTE OPA! of Greece This year marks the 25th anniversary of OPA! of Greece, a popular QSR concept specializing in fast and fresh Greek cuisine. The Western Canada-based brand originated in Calgary, Alberta, when founder Niko Tiginagas achieved his dream of serving up the flavours of his homeland to Canadians. He wanted to create an environment reminiscent of Greek culture for guests to slow down and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal made from simple quality ingredients.

“Niko possessed the skill sets that we really look for in our franchisees: a strong entrepreneurial spirit, drive, and, most importantly, a passion for food and people,” says Mike MacDonald, OPA! of Greece’s director of marketing. “Niko would remember your name and what your favourite menu item was. He really created the spirit of OPA and that’s what set us apart 25 years ago and what continues to set us apart today.”

Since 1998, the brand has become one of the largest Greek QSR chains in North America, with 108 locations currently operating and an additional three new locations expected by the end of the year. Though the brand began in a mall food court, today it has a more even split between mall and storefront locations and has shifted focus toward storefront locations since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The brand’s legacy is a major benefit to franchisees, who can capitalize on brand recognition, marketing support, and a robust system of vendors. OPA! of Greece also offers an in-depth, four-week training program that includes hands-on instruction at training stores in

Calgary as well as ongoing support from a dedicated regional manager.

“We support each new location with a grand opening event and as the director of marketing, my job is to create brand awareness and excitement around each and every new location that we open,” continues MacDonald.

Over the 13 years he’s worked with OPA! of Greece, MacDonald has seen many shifts in the QSR market— especially as of late as the industry has become more crowded with several new concepts directed at those seeking healthy, fresh food options. But OPA! of Greece was ahead of the curve when it introduced a focus on authentic food with no artificial flavours or fillers 25 years ago. The brand is also adopting more technology, with the launch of a dedicated app and loyalty program.

MacDonald says OPA! of Greece plans to expand by six to 15 locations each year going forward. He says they also plan to focus on growing and developing in the Ontario market, especially with storefront locations. No matter the growth, the brand plans to stay true to the values that have kept it going for a quarter-century. “It’s always been about making our customers feel like family and bringing a little Greek happiness into our customers’ day, every day,” concludes MacDonald.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

44 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

TRAVELLING WITH TASTE

Pita Land It all started in Toronto in the mid-1990s, when the Fahmi family emigrated to Canada. “They had a vision and the passion to bring the taste of the Middle East to the West,” says Eleanor Reynolds. Reynolds is director of marketing for Pita Land, which has grown into a thriving franchise with more than 50 locations in Ontario, and expanded into Alberta and British Columbia markets.

“Their flavours come from generations of spices that were handed down through the family. So it’s a true, authentic story of newcomers to Canada bringing the flavours of their homeland and introducing everyone here in Canada to them,” says Reynolds.

That ethos continues today, and the brand’s franchise model allows for flexibility that adapts to each location’s community. Along with a menu of certified halal chicken shawarma, falafel, gyros, kebabs, and a signature lentil soup—it’s “just delicious, there’s nothing quite like it,” Reynolds raves—individual locations are able to make requests to expand to other items. For instance, and in response to customer requests, the brand has launched limited-time fusion offerings to keep on trend with culinary experiences.

Franchisees with the brand aren’t required to have a culinary background as they receive extensive training and support every step of the way, from site selection to construction to proper food handling and preparation.

Food is delivered fresh from a central commissary.

Reynolds says it's important to find franchisees who are the right fit for the business and have the passion to make it a success. “We’re going to be working closely together. We want success for you, and you want success—a happy franchisee is a happy franchisor.”

Ultimately, quality, customer service, and the relationships with customers are the most important elements

of running a successful QSR franchise, says Reynolds.

“At the end of the day, we have a robust support team from operations to marketing nationally and locally and high standards of food quality. Today’s customers are all about food and service, therefore the customer experience is key.

“We work with each franchisee from finding locations, contractors to refer who build out on time, introductions to banks for securing small business loans and we provide full training to ensure the new franchisee is ready on opening day. We also provide customer service training so the customer journey is top class, we train staff how to connect with the customer, ensuring a positive referral because you just can't beat the value of word of mouth! […] and that means the world to us. That’s what it’s all about, connecting with and supporting your community, the customer, and the franchisee.” Reynolds adds that the brand encourages its franchisees to give back, with charitable programs and sponsoring local sports teams.

As for the brand’s future plans, expansion is going “coast to coast to coast,” says Reynolds. “We’re ready.

We’re looking for franchisees, area developers, unit developers.” The Pita Land concept works in any footprint from 800 to 1,400 square feet and has had success not only in street-level locations but also in convenient locations inside food courts, universities, hospitals, and even gas stations.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Mix your love for music with your business and be directly responsible for your future.

Open your own School of Rock and experience our unique franchising approach.

SCHOOLOFROCK.COM/CFA

Full Service Restaurants Across Canada The restaurant industry has displayed remarkable resilience and growth since the pandemic, with establishments adapting to new norms and innovating to attract and retain customers. As a result, the industry is growing across all sectors. The most recent numbers from Statistics Canada show that full service restaurants are on the rise, growing by 1.3 per cent from 2021 to 2022.

Owning a restaurant can come with many challenges, but joining a franchise system offers benefits such as access to a proven business model and established brand recognition, which can significantly reduce the risks associated with starting a new restaurant from scratch. Franchisees can also tap into the resources of a larger organization, whether by joining the supply chain or benefitting from the collective marketing efforts of the franchise network to attract a broader customer base.

Fortunately, there are many restaurant franchises to consider, serving every type of food you can imagine. So, dig into this comprehensive list of full service restaurants across Canada to take the first step towards making your dreams of owning a restaurant come true.

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FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar

Applebee’s is the largest casual dining restaurant franchise in the world, with close to 2,000 locations across 18 countries.

Founded in Decatur, Georgia, Applebee’s delivers a classic grill and bar menu in a wholesome restaurant atmosphere. It has an international reputation for providing a quintessential American dining experience. The brand has 14 locations across Canada and is seeking qualified multi-unit developers with management expertise to expand its Canadian footprint.

Support for franchisees includes training, site selection assistance, restaurant design planning assistance, restaurant opening assistance, and ongoing operations and marketing consulting.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Big Rig Kitchen & Brewery Big Rig Kitchen & Brewery is the largest craft brewery in Ottawa, serving a growing selection of artisanal beers and comfort food favourites to loyal customers. Shortly after its founding in 2012, Big Rig Brewery won multiple Canadian and Ontario Brewing Awards, including “Brewery of the Year in Ontario” in 2013. As Big Rig Brewery continues to expand into the Greater Toronto Area, the franchise’s innovation and creativity make it one to watch in the brewery market.

With the backing of industry-leading franchisor Foodtastic, Big Rig Kitchen & Brewery sets its franchisees up with support in site selection, leasing, design, training, along with ongoing marketing and operational assistance.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

BÀCARO Pizzeria

BÀCARO Pizzeria is a neighbourhood-style eatery based in Quebec. Its unique, expansive menu features imported Italian wines, imported and domestic beers, and speciality Italian pizza, pasta, and desserts. BÀCARO’s atmosphere is inspired by Venetian pizzerias, creating a relaxed and inviting sanctuary for patrons to unwind and enjoy a glass of wine or two.

Franchisees have the option to purchase one of BÀCARO’s existing locations or “dive into a new adventure” by building BÀCARO’s next location. The BÀCARO team assists in both the training and operational needs of each location to help foster the success of its new franchisees.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Big T’s BBQ and Smokehouse

Big T’s BBQ and Smokehouse is a Southern-inspired, Calgarybased BBQ restaurant with locations across Alberta. For 20 years, the award-winning establishment has operated on a mission to bring Big T’s good food and strong family values to more Albertan communities.

Big T’s is offering franchise opportunities in the West Hills, Crowfoot, Sunridge, Beacon Hill, Country Hills, and East Hills areas of Alberta, but its call for driven investors is Canada-wide.

Big T’s offers new franchisees construction and real estate assistance, training and operations support, top-tier suppliers and distributors, and award-winning marketing and agency partners.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

48 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

Café 22

Café 22 is a contemporary Italian restaurant franchise based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The menu offers classic Italian favourites, such as stone-fired pizza, and a wide selection of wines, cocktails, and beer. Its collaboration with local winery Banville and Jones allows restaurant-goers to order ahead and receive their selected wine chilled and waiting at their table when they arrive.

Café 22’s local partnerships and community involvement make investing a unique and exciting opportunity for franchisees.

With more opportunities coming soon, new franchisees are encouraged to contact Café 22 directly to find out more about the benefits of joining the growing franchise.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Carlos & Pepe’s

Carlos & Pepe’s is a Montreal-based restaurant franchise devoted to serving Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. For more than 30 years, Carlos & Pepe’s has delivered a vibrant menu featuring tacos, fajitas, empanadas, Mexican-style cocktails, and shooters. Guests can enjoy the carefree, energetic atmosphere as they dine under colourful skulls and alebrije installations, a tribute to el Dia de Las Muertos.

With four booming locations, the party isn’t stopping at Carlos & Pepe’s anytime soon. As a Foodtastic brand, new franchisees are set up with support for site selection, leasing, design, training, and ongoing marketing and operational guidance.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

California Pizza Kitchen

California Pizza Kitchen is a global eatery dedicated to making upscale pizza accessible for everyone. For almost 40 years, the franchise has committed itself to innovating California-style pizza and pushing boundaries by being the first to introduce gluten-free crust, cauliflower crust, and the world-famous BBQ chicken pizza to the culinary industry. With nearly 200 restaurants worldwide, California Pizza Kitchen continues to grow and evolve as a franchise.

Currently, California Pizza Kitchen offers location opportunities for Canadian franchisees in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.

Committed to the success of its franchisees, California Pizza Kitchen offers franchise partners flexibility in the location, design layout, and choice of menu offerings.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill

Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill is a Canada-wide restaurant franchise with a mission to make all travellers feel at home. The traditional roadhouse spirit is demonstrated in its feature menu, restful atmosphere, and affordable pricing. With 61 franchise units and counting, Chuck’s Roadhouse is expanding rapidly.

Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill has opportunities available in its new Toronto, Trenton, and Gravenhurst locations. New franchisees can take advantage of the low royalties, low marketing costs, and easy operation with a small, efficient menu and simple processes. Chuck’s also offers financing to eligible franchisees to support their success.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

Crabby Joe’s Bar-Grill

Eggsmart

With more Ontario locations coming soon, Crabby Joe’s is on the lookout for new franchisees to build up the brand to new levels. Potential franchisees are encouraged to contact Crabby Joe’s to find out more about its franchise opportunities and available financing options.

Eggsmart’s franchise system includes site selection and lease negotiation, a three-week business and restaurant training program, food and equipment sourcing, restaurant opening assistance, marketing and promotion support, and more.

Eggsmart’s website also lists approximate budget costs for new location development and provides options for available financing.

Crabby Joe’s Bar-Grill is a sports bar and casual dine-in restaurant. Since 1996, Crabby Joe’s has been serving high-quality food to customers across southern Ontario. Its unpretentious atmosphere and look make it the perfect place to sit and enjoy a beer with good company and great food.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Enoteca Monza

Enoteca Monza is a family-oriented Italian restaurant and wine bar. The franchise prides itself on the authenticity of its menu which features traditional dishes, family recipes, and modern takes on traditional cuisine. Guests can choose from a fine selection of wine, cocktails, and champagne to pair with dinner.

Enoteca Monza is expanding to new locations beyond its home base in Quebec. The franchise is looking to expand in Canadian shopping centres, as well as urban, suburban, and downtown streetfront locations. Enoteca Monza’s franchisees receive assistance in site selection, leasing, design, training, and ongoing marketing and operational support, all backed by parent company Foodtastic.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Eggsmart is a fast-growing Canadian breakfast franchise with 45 locations and counting. With an expansive menu of savoury and sweet breakfast, brunch, and lunch items, Eggsmart is the ideal spot to enjoy the most important meal of the day–or even just a cup of coffee.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Famoso Italian Pizzeria + Bar

Famoso Italian Pizzeria + Bar is a casual, full-service restaurant that draws from culinary traditions originating in Naples, Italy.

Since 2005, the brand has served Neapolitan pizza in a lively, familial atmosphere. Over the years, Famoso has expanded across the Canadian market, with locations in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario.

Famoso sets up its new franchisees with premium site selection and leasing support. It also provides a comprehensive eight to 12-week training program for management, which includes an introductory week in Naples, Italy. After opening each new location, Famoso continues to provide operational and training support.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

50 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

Humpty’s

IHOP

As a Humpty’s franchisee, you’ll benefit from a time-tested brand, hands-on training programs, and ongoing support. The established reputation, menu variety, and dedicated customer base make becoming a Humpty’s franchisee an exciting opportunity in the hospitality industry.

IHOP is offering exclusive locations for franchise development throughout limited Canadian territories. Potential franchisees must be experienced in multi-unit restaurant ownership or retail development and operations. IHOP franchisees receive training, site selection assistance, restaurant designing and planning assistance, restaurant opening assistance, and ongoing operations and marketing consulting.

Humpty’s Restaurants is a renowned Canadian franchise chain specializing in classic comfort food with a modern twist. The concept blends a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with a diverse menu offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. From all-day breakfast favourites to hearty burgers, sandwiches, and salads, Humpty’s caters to a wide range of tastes.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Jacques Cartier Pizza

Jacques Cartier Pizza is a family-owned and operated pizzeria business. Since 1968, Jacques Cartier has served pizza, pasta, and submarine sandwiches to its loyal customer base. The franchise’s mom and pop concept has supported its growth across the Quebec region, bringing more customers to the familiar but constantly evolving brand.

With 15 locations and counting, Jacques Cartier Pizza provides an opportunity to own your own business with all the perks that come along with a well-established franchise system.

Prospective franchisees are encouraged to reach out to Jacques Cartier Pizza directly through its website to learn more.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

IHOP is a full-service family restaurant chain known for its world-famous pancakes and its sprawling breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. Since its founding in 1958, IHOP has grown to nearly 2,000 locations worldwide. IHOP’s promise of warm service and comfortable atmosphere has built the foundation for an internationally renowned, award-winning brand.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Joey’s Fish Shack

In 1985, husband and wife Joe and Theresa Klassen opened the first Joey’s Seafood Restaurant in Calgary. Thirty-five years later, after growing into the largest seafood restaurant brand in Canada, Joey’s Seafood Restaurant rebranded itself into Joey’s Fish Shack with a new menu of reworked fan favourites.

With 45 units and counting, Joey’s Fish Shack is looking for franchisees to take advantage of its single- and multi-unit ownership opportunities. On top of the franchise’s competitive fee structure, Joey’s Fish Shack also handles real estate selection, lease negotiations, construction, and project management. Franchisees can also expect ongoing training support, including help with daily operations, food ordering, staff management, and onboarding.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

KINTON RAMEN

L’Gros Luxe

KINTON RAMEN has franchise opportunities available in cities across Canada in regions such as southwestern Ontario and the Golden Horseshoe, Simcoe Ontario, the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, and Edmonton, Alberta. KINTON provides its franchisees with collaborative site selection, an individualized on-site training program, and continual consulting support.

L’Gros Luxe is looking to expand to new locations across Canada, everywhere from shopping centres to free-standing buildings in urban, suburban, and downtown areas. The restaurant’s longstanding partnership with Foodtastic guarantees support for its franchisees in site selection, leasing, design, training, and ongoing marketing and operational assistance.

KINTON RAMEN started in 2012 as one of the first Japanese ramen restaurant concepts in Toronto. The brand is known for its signature soup recipes, which guests enjoy with their choice of thick or thin noodles, mild or spicy broth, and meat or vegetarian options. With more than 30 locations in Canada, KINTON RAMEN is growing rapidly.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

La Belle & La Boeuf

La Belle & La Boeuf is a sports bar franchise with a menu built around its signature Angus burger. Guests enjoy cocktails and table games with nostalgic rock music and decor inspired by the spirit of the ‘70s.

La Belle & La Boeuf is looking to grow its franchise presence across North America with locations in urban, suburban, and downtown sectors, as well as shopping centres, entertainment centres, independent buildings in outdoor plazas, and street locations. Franchisees are immediately set up with assistance in site selection, leasing, design, training, and ongoing marketing and operational support.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

L’Gros Luxe is a restaurant franchise focused on creating customized restaurants for each community it services. The Montreal-based franchise pairs its adaptable concept with its distinctive, warm atmosphere, which each location recreates using its signature antique furniture, chandeliers, and old portraits—bringing a touch of luxury to each new location.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

La Chambre

La Chambre is a sports bar-restaurant, with an atmosphere inspired by the adrenaline-fuelled energy of a locker room during a hockey tournament. The brand is known for its poutine, wings, nachos, ribs, and burgers—all foods that are easy to wash down with a micro-brasserie beer.

With five successful locations in Quebec, La Chambre is a growing franchise. La Chambre offers assistance in site selection, leasing, design, training, and marketing and operational support through its parent company Foodtastic.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

52 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

Mandarin Restaurant Franchise Corporation

Mandarin is one of the leading all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant franchises in Ontario. For more than 40 years, Mandarin has served Chinese and Canadian favourites to generations of customers. Guest can enjoy its endless buffet options and bright, familial atmosphere complete with a beautiful koi pond at each location.

With Mandarin, franchisees can become a part of a growing, reputable brand with 29 locations and counting.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Nickels Delicatessen

Nickels Delicatessen (or Nickels Deli) is a bistro-diner known for its signature smoked meat sandwiches, plus burgers, sandwiches, poutines, salads, pastas, and more. With its cozy, relaxed atmosphere it’s become a local favourite and a must-try for tourists who want to enjoy some iconic Montreal smoked meat.

Franchisees who are interested in a taste of the smoked meat franchise can work with Foodtastic’s restaurant franchise department, which provides support for finding a location, leasing, design, training, and ongoing marketing and operational assistance to new owners.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Milestones Grill + Bar

A leader in the fast fine dining industry, Milestones Grill + Bar (Milestones) provides guests with a refined dining experience.

Since opening its first location in Vancouver in 1989, Milestones has grown into a booming franchise with locations in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and New Brunswick.

With 22 restaurants and counting, Milestones wants to bring its celebratory atmosphere to the rest of Canada.

Milestones’ franchisees are set up in partnership with Foodtastic’s restaurant franchise department, which provides new franchisees with assistance in location selection, leasing, construction and design, training, and ongoing marketing and operational support.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Pacini

Pacini is an Italian restaurant franchise with three values behind its concept: love, sincerity, and creativity. These values drive the constantly changing menu, which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an all-you-can-eat bread bar. For more than 30 years, guests have enjoyed the lounge-like dining ambience and the mini mercato, Piazza Pacini, in the atrium featuring a variety of wines, cheeses, and charcuterie.

Pacini is now operating 30 restaurants in Canada, with new locations in Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec, six of which operate out of hotels. Franchisees have the option to take advantage of Pacini’s partnerships with several hotel chains or franchise autonomously.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

Pizza Hotline/Pizza Hotline Stone Fire’d

Pizza Hotline is a pizza takeaway and delivery concept that has operated in the Manitoba market for more than 30 years. Its sister restaurant, Pizza Hotline: Stone Fired Pizzeria, marries the convenience of the Pizza Hotline model with a fast-casual restaurant concept.

New franchisees can expect a comprehensive training program and ongoing marketing, accounting, and operations support.

Pizza Hotline also takes care of store construction and its omnichannel order-taking centre manages all customer inquiries.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Ramen Misoya

Ramen Misoya has been serving its trademark ramen with a miso base for more than 10 years. After just five years in business, Ramen Misoya was Michelin Guide recommended.

Ramen Misoya’s mission statement is to deliver health and wellbeing through the benefits of miso.

Ramen Misoya has 30 locations worldwide, six of which are across Alberta, Quebec, and Ontario. Currently, the brand has franchise opportunities in Montreal and Toronto, but is planning for Canada-wide expansion.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Prime Pubs

Prime Pubs is a pub franchise inspired by the Irish pub culture.

With a shareable menu of pub classics like ribs, wings, burgers, and fish and chips, Prime Pubs is an ideal meeting place for a bite to eat or a pint with friends.

The Prime Pubs franchise network is made up of 25 locations across Ontario, Manitoba, and Alberta, which include its sister restaurants D’Arcy McGee’s, Paddy Flaherty’s, and Tir Nan Òg.

Under Foodtastic, Prime’s franchisees receive support for site selection, leasing, design, training, and ongoing marketing and operational assistance.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Ricky’s All Day Grill

Ricky’s All Day Grill is a casual dining concept with an expansive menu of comfort food options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus drinks and dessert. The brand is a member of the Ricky’s Family-Style Restaurants, a franchise group with more than 80 locations in Yukon, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Ontario.

Ricky’s All Day Grill supports its franchisees with ongoing training and support, accounting and financial guidance, ongoing leadership and training programs, marketing support, and more.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

54 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

Shoeless Joe’s

Shoeless Joe’s is a sports and grill franchise with its own twist on the casual dining restaurant concept. Since 1985, Shoeless Joe’s has been the place for camaraderie during those edge-ofyour-seat moments and final buzzer countdowns.

At 23 locations and counting, Shoeless Joe’s is looking to bring the fan favourite franchise to the rest of Canada. New franchisees of Shoeless Joe’s benefit from being part of the Foodtastic network which helps handle site selection, leasing, design, training, and provides ongoing marketing and operational assistance.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Sunset Grill

With 38 years in the business and more than 100 locations, Sunset Grill is one of Canada’s leading breakfast restaurant franchises. The brand’s all-day breakfast concept and menu have remained consistent for nearly 40 years, creating a loyal fan base of breakfast lovers in Alberta, Ontario, and New Brunswick.

Over the next year, Sunset Grill is planning to open at least 20 new franchise units, focusing on high traffic and highly visible street locations in Alberta, Ontario, and New Brunswick markets and in select markets in the U.S., primarily California. Sunset Grill provides support for site selection, lease negotiation, construction, recruitment, training, and ongoing operational guidance.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Sunnyside Grill

Sunnyside Grill is a breakfast restaurant offering sweet and savoury dishes for the most important meal of the day.

Since 2004, Sunnyside Grill has spread to 14 locations, bringing its all-day breakfast concept and cozy atmosphere to neighbourhoods across Ontario.

Sunnyside Grill is looking for qualified entrepreneurs to bring the franchise to communities across North America, and is welcoming single-unit deals, master franchises, multi-unit deals, and territory development deal enquiries. All franchisees receive support through the Sunnyside Program, which includes support for site selection, lease negotiation, construction, recruitment, training, operations, and marketing and advertising assistance.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Symposium Cafe Restaurants

Symposium Cafe is a local favourite casual dining restaurant.

With cozy interiors and beautiful decor, guests can sink into a booth or lounge chair, enjoying gourmet comfort food and drink options, from wine and beer to coffee and cocktails.

As a CFA two-time Best Traditional Franchise grand prize award winner, Symposium Cafe is a success-driven franchise focused on innovation and customer satisfaction.

In the next two years, two to three new prime locations are forecast to be available in select Ontario markets, as well as existing locations in Ajax, Barrie, and Cobourg. Franchisees receive training, site selection, marketing, and opening support.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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FULL SERVICE RESTAURANTS ACROSS CANADA

The Enchanted Poutinerie

The Enchanted Poutinerie reimagines the traditional fries, cheese curds, and gravy dish. The menu offers innovative flavours like chicken shawarma and jerk chicken, and its trademark unicorn poutine with multi-coloured gravy. The brand has established itself as innovative and fantastical, with trees and unicorn decor straight out of an enchanted forest.

The Enchanted Poutinerie provides new franchisees with a four-week extensive training program, diversified advertising strategy, and site selection and construction assistance.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

White Spot Restaurants

White Spot is an iconic B.C. brand that has served communities for more than 95 years. Famous for their award-winning Legendary Burgers with “secret” Triple ‘O’ sauce, the family casual dining chain continues to grow and maintain relevance with guests of all ages at their full service restaurants across B.C., where it serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, late-night eats, and takeout.

“As the bronze winner of CFA’s Award of Excellence for 2023 and the recipient of the Franchisees’ Choice Designation for the last 10 years, White Spot knows what it takes to form great partnerships with its franchisees,” says Karen Dosen, business development manager. White Spot provides support with all aspects of the business including menu development, marketing, supply management, design and construction, and training.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Twin Peaks Restaurants

Twin Peaks is a sports bar and restaurant franchise that serves burgers, brisket, wings, and cold beverages in a lodge atmosphere with an all-female waitstaff.

Since its founding in 2005, Twin Peaks now has nearly 100 locations in the U.S. and Mexico. As it expands into select Canadian markets, Twin Peaks is seeking multi-unit restaurant developers and operators as franchise partners. Franchisees will receive pre-opening and opening training on-site for a minimum of three weeks and participate in the 17-week Twin Peaks Corporate Certified Training program.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Wing’n It Restaurants

Wing’n It is a one-stop wings spot, featuring more than 100 different flavours and dips, not to mention an express menu with fast favourites like poutine, onion rings, and burgers.

With something for everyone, guests who dine in at any of its 18 locations will experience a hospitable, family focused atmosphere.

With new locations set to open all over Canada, the growth of the Wing’n It brand promises franchising opportunities for anyone interested in getting their foot in the door.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

56 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

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Buying a Franchise Resale Location vs. Building a New Location Everything you need to know to make this important decision for your new franchise

O

BY KAREN STEVENS

ne of the biggest early decisions each new franchisee faces is whether to purchase a franchise resale location or build a new store from scratch. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and understanding these factors is an important part of making an informed decision. So, which should you choose? Below we’ll explore the benefits and challenges of buying a franchise resale location vs. building a new location to help you make an informed decision.

Buying a franchise resale location Buying a franchise resale location means you’re purchasing an existing franchise outlet or business that is already established and operational. Instead of building a new franchise from the ground floor, you’re taking over an existing franchise unit that is already up and running.

So, should you buy a resale location? The answer isn’t a straightforward “yes” or “no”; the decision should be based on individual circumstances, goals, and risk tolerance. Here are some benefits and challenges to consider as you make your decision.

BENEFITS:

•E stablished brand recognition: Taking over a franchise resale location allows you to tap into an existing customer base and benefit from the established brand recognition. This can save you significant time and effort in building customer awareness and loyalty.

•P roven track record: Resale locations often have a track record of sound financial performance and operational success. This information provides valuable insight into the business’s potential profitability, making it easier to assess risks and make informed investment decisions.

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FRANCHISE RESALE •T rained staff and infrastructure: A resale location might come with trained workers and existing infrastructure, such as suppliers. This can help you avoid the hassle of hiring and training new employees and setting up operational systems from scratch.

•F aster start-up time: Buying a resale location typically means a quicker start-up process compared to building a new location. With an existing facility, plus permits, licenses, and a lease already in place, you can focus on other aspects of running the business.

CHALLENGES:

•H igher initial investment: You may need a larger upfront investment to purchase a resale location compared to building a new location.

• L imited flexibility: Existing locations may come with established practices, procedures, and physical layouts that limit your ability to customize the business to your preferences. This lack of flexibility can be challenging if you want to run the franchise in a specific way.

•P otential hidden issues: While resale locations may have a proven track record, there is always the risk of hidden problems that might not be immediately obvious. These issues could include declining sales,

market saturation, or maybe a negative reputation with the local customers.

Building a New Franchise Location When you buy a franchise in a new location it means you have to build your franchise from the ground up.

You’ll go through the site selection process and conduct thorough market research to find the right place to open your franchise (some franchisors help with this). Then, you’ll have to do all the legwork of construction/renovations, hiring and training staff, and marketing to the new area. Here are some benefits and drawbacks to consider.

BENEFITS:

•C ustomization and branding: Building a new franchise location allows you to design and customize the space to align with your vision, branding, and target market. This flexibility provides an opportunity to create a unique customer experience that sets your business apart.

•L ower initial investment: Compared to acquiring a resale location, building a new franchise location can often be more cost-effective. You have greater control over the construction and design process, which can

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60 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

FRANCHISE RESALE enable you to find more cost-efficient solutions and negotiate better terms with contractors and suppliers.

•M arket selection: Building a new location allows you to choose a market or location that aligns perfectly with your business goals. You can assess factors like demographics, competition, and market potential, ensuring your business is strategically positioned for success.

CHALLENGES:

•L onger start-up time: Constructing a new location involves a more time-consuming process than acquiring a resale location. You must navigate land acquisition, planning and zoning regulations, construction permits, and other bureaucratic hurdles. This can delay the opening of your business and potentially impact revenue generation.

•U ncertain performance: Unlike a resale location with a proven track record, a new location is more uncertain.

It may take time to establish brand recognition, build a customer base, and fine-tune operations. This unpredictability poses a greater risk for entrepreneurs.

• Operational challenges: Building a new location requires meticulous planning and project management skills. Coordinating various contractors, suppliers,

and construction timelines can be complex and stressful. It requires careful attention to detail to ensure everything is executed smoothly.

Buying a franchise resale has both advantages and challenges. The main advantage is that you’re acquiring an existing business with a known history, which can reduce the risk compared to starting from scratch. On the other hand, there could be specific reasons why the current owner is selling, and you need to investigate these thoroughly to avoid inheriting any underlying issues.

Remember, as with any significant investment, it’s crucial to seek professional advice from franchise accountants, lawyers, and business advisors to ensure you’re making a sound investment. Understanding the current state of the business and having a clear understanding of the franchise agreement and responsibilities is vital for a successful franchise resale acquisition. By carefully weighing these benefits and challenges, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your longterm business objectives.

Want to hear firsthand from franchisees who have purchased through a resale? Visit FranchiseCanada.Online to find franchisee resale success stories!

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5 Things to Consider Before Franchising Your Business An essential guide to making informed decisions and setting your franchise up for success

BY DANIEL MCINTOSH

A

s a business owner, you probably spent a lot of time preparing the tools you need to build a successful business. The same goes for converting your business into a franchise.

Although the gears of your business are already turning, franchising involves some additional parameters that make it different from simply managing a small business.

Here are five examples of things business owners should consider before franchising their business.

1. Is this business scalable?

One of the fundamental traits that separates a franchise from the average small business is its ability to be duplicated in different markets. The ability to replicate results needs to be established before the business is offered as a franchise investment to others. In addition to being replicated, the business should also have established and clearly defined standard operating procedures. The system should be able to adapt its outlets to several locations, sectors, and perhaps even store types, while maintaining profitability. Moreover, if prospective franchisees have more touchpoints with your brand—inside a mall, on a street corner, or even as a smaller kiosk location—it makes it more recognizable and familiar. It also demonstrates the adaptability that’s a crucial factor in long-term growth.

registering trademarks, developing manuals, and hiring lawyers, accountants, and other franchise professionals to make sure your franchise is starting on the right foot.

Business owners can research lines of credit or traditional loans to fund the development of their franchise systems but should be prepared to closely monitor their cash flow to ensure that the system has a fallback in case of decreased profitability.

Resources must go toward supplying marketing materials, developing training procedures, and hiring support staff. For example, if your business requires you to act as a dispatcher, like in some home- or mobile-based businesses, how do you intend to hire and pay staff when the number of calls coming in becomes too overwhelming to handle on your own? While franchisors must cover the costs of the development of the system, the franchise fees and royalties that come from franchisees can go back into the business. In addition, pooled money from franchisees, such as in the case of an advertising fund, gets cycled back into developing new marketing materials.

It traditionally takes new franchises two years to become profitable which can lead to stress in the early stages of franchising. Potential franchisors should have the leadership abilities to keep franchisees focused on the right goals through any issues in these early stages.

2. Do you have the finances available to franchise?

As franchising requires significant investments, from both the franchisor and the franchisee, understanding where the investment is going is as important as knowing where the funding is coming from. Although franchisees provide investment fees, there’s a significant contribution that potential franchisors must make before they even think about signing someone on. On average, the expenses can run from $25,000 to $100,000, covering everything from

3. Are you aware of regional legal requirements?

As a business owner, you probably have big visions for the future of your franchise system, with plans of expanding far beyond your own city, or even country. Regardless of how grand your ambitions are, every region has its own legal and regulatory rules that you as a business owner need to adhere to.

In Canada, six provinces—Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Prince Edward

62 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

5 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE FRANCHISING YOUR BUSINESS Island—have their own franchise disclosure legislation.

Quebec does not have franchise-specific legislation, but the Civil Code of Quebec governs many aspects of the franchise relationship including contracts and the duty of good faith. The remaining provinces and territories must abide by traditional federal business laws and any fair dealing or ethical regulations in their respective region. Failure to regard the laws can result in legal challenges, extra litigation costs, or even tarnish your reputation as a business owner.

Franchisors are required to provide franchise disclosure documents (containing necessary information for potential franchisees) which detail the financial performance of your franchise system. This transparency is crucial, not only to ensure a harmonious relationship between franchisor and franchisee, but to keep you legally protected. The franchise agreement—a legally binding contract—is similarly important as it outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party. These documents are vital to protecting your interests and avoiding potential disputes down the road. When it comes to legal issues, consulting with experienced franchise attorneys and professionals will help ensure that your franchise operations are fully compliant with relevant laws and regulations.

5. Is there strong demand for your product/service in other regions?

You should determine whether your concept will thrive in new locations and if there is a sufficient audience to consume your products and services. Before franchising, business owners should evaluate whether the concept is suitable for the target market you plan to enter. Does your product fit with the local audience’s preferences and cultural dynamics? Entrepreneurs need to be aware of potential challenges and competition for their business. Investigating these measures before starting your franchise can reduce your risk of failure in the long run.

While this may seem like a daunting list, the reality of franchising is that you are not alone, and there have been many successful franchisors who started in the very same position as you. Before diving into the world of franchising, consider seeking guidance from experienced franchise consultants or professionals to ensure that you’re making informed decisions and setting your franchisees up for success. Additionally, remember that franchising requires effective communication from you to your franchisees. Communication, in the form of sharing best practices and regularly gathering feedback, is the cornerstone of maintaining a strong relationship with your franchise network.

4. Can you provide effective training materials to new franchisees and their staff?

Maintaining a cohesive brand image and consistent service across units and locations is an essential part of growing a franchise system.

That relies on having welltrained staff at all levels that can effectively promote the brand and fulfill its promises.

Effective support and training are essential for ensuring that your franchisees can operate their businesses efficiently, maintain brand standards, and deliver a consistent customer experience.

Make sure the training materials you provide to your franchisees emphasize your brand’s values, mission, and standards. Training in quality control ensures that customers will have similar positive experiences in every franchise location they visit. Franchisors should create operations manuals to standardize training processes.

The CFA’s Franchise Your Business hub is an essential starting point for any business owner looking to expand. Get all the information you need to scale your business concept to new heights at cfa.ca/franchiseyourbusiness.

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Canadian franchise systems span industries from nail salons to childcare to fast food and employ thousands of Canadians from coast to coast. Here are three home-grown and locally owned Canadian entrepreneurial success stories.

BY DAVID CHILTON SAGGERS

Oxford Learning Centres

In the 1980s, the rise of alternative schooling prompted Oxford Learning CEO Nick Whitehead to look at how children were taught and how they learned. He considered opening a school, but instead, he opened an Oxford Learning Centre in London, Ontario in 1984.

The centres are designed to supplement traditional education, not replace it. There are now 136 Oxford Learning franchises from British Columbia to Nova Scotia. There are also 21 in the U.S., one in Kuwait, one in Qatar, and two in the Bahamas, with more expansion in Canada and abroad coming soon.

Whitehead says he sees further growth in Canada and other opportunities in the Middle East.

All Oxford Learning Centres are franchises. “Our strength is developing curriculum and supporting franchisees,” says Whitehead. As for the franchisees themselves, Whitehead says they include former bankers, lawyers, and lots of teachers. Increasingly, too, he’s seeing younger people—and younger women in particular— who want to invest with the brand.

As for what he looks for in a franchisee, Whitehead is straightforward: “They must want more than just another day at the office.” New franchisees benefit from extensive digital training followed by two weeks of in-person learning at head office in London.

You’ll find Oxford Learning locations in new builds and renovated spaces in prime retail locations, such as strip malls. Franchisees themselves hire their teachers, and in almost all cases they are provincially certified. The franchise system has multiple target markets because of the many programs it offers, and the elementary school program is the most popular. As for the benefits of the Oxford Learning system, according to Whitehead, almost all franchisees would say that franchising with Oxford has been positive for them and their family. Or as he puts it, “Going to work every day is not going to work.”

Whitehead explains that the COVID-19 outbreak was a challenging time. Yet despite the chaos, Oxford Learning

managed to enroll 85 per cent of its students in Oxford’s digital world online. Looking forward, Oxford is developing a proprietary online learning platform, which is expected to launch in 2024.

Next year, Oxford Learning celebrates its 40th anniversary. The celebrations include an annual meeting in Florida, a trip to a Mexican resort for franchisees and their families, and system discounts for new franchisees.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Prairie Donair

A love of food and an enterprising spirit are two constants in Joshua Bagchi’s career. And those traits helped him on his journey to becoming the CEO of Prairie Donair, the largest chain of donair shops in the country.

Bagchi was working as a food sales representative in 2010 when he took the plunge and acquired an underperforming donair restaurant in Regina, Saskatchewan.

That meant, Bagchi explains from head office in Regina, that he was working at two jobs—as a sales rep and as a donair cook.

By 2015 he’d paid off the debt from buying the now successful restaurant and opened a second location, also in Regina, that took two years to turn a profit. When he opened a third Prairie Donair in that city, it made money in less than six months and Bagchi hasn’t looked back since.

He started expanding to other cities in 2019 and sold a store in Regina and another one in Swift Current, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive east of the provincial capital.

Now there are 40 Prairie Donair locations, with most in the three Prairie provinces, plus one in White Rock, British Columbia, and another in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

Bagchi maintains one corporate store in Regina. He says he’s looking for developers to help him expand in Ontario, the most populous province in Canada.

A new turnkey Prairie Donair location will cost between $250,000 and $270,000. The sweet spot for his stores is about 800 to 1,000 square feet because “we don’t want to get too big,” says Bagchi. Franchises are usually in strip malls that have an anchor client, and he has his eye on a drive-thru operation. The majority of his customers, some 80 per cent of them, are millennials, Bagchi explains. However, he is mindful of the older market segment and how much they like donairs, which became popular in Halifax in the 1970s. The donair is shaved beef, onions, tomatoes, and spices served in a pita. It has its origins as a street food, which was adapted when it came to Canada’s east coast.

As for the qualities Bagchi looks for in potential franchisees, he says he wants a strong work ethic, and an

understanding of the food business and its financial aspects. They must also really care about the market segment they’re in, Bagchi adds. Prairie Donair brings its new franchisees to Winnipeg for their training, which lasts from four to six weeks. “It’s [in the] classroom and on the floor,” he says. “It’s on the floor where we want people to learn.”

Investing with Prairie Donair brings numerous benefits, says Bagchi. There’s the product itself, a growthfocused head office with national ambitions, strong support, and a very good personal benefits plan for franchisees, including a pension scheme.

Bagchi is candid about the first effects of the pandemic: “When COVID hit, my sales tanked.” However, being the entrepreneur that he is, he got to work building an online ordering system that took off immediately. In addition, he fielded many requests about acquiring a franchise and in 2020, he opened 17 new Prairie Donair locations.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

66 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

The Fritter Shop

Kelvin Van Rijn says he grew up in his parents’ bakery in Amsterdam. Now the founder and president of The Fritter Shop, headquartered in London, Ontario, Van Rijn is cashing in on his upbringing as he looks to expand his franchise system.

Van Rijn’s parents came to Canada in 2001 but had no immediate interest in starting a bakery. Eventually they found their way back to baking and started The Dutch Bakery in St. Thomas, Ontario in 2002.

With this modest start and a single batch of apple fritters (usually only baked in the Netherlands to celebrate New Year), they initiated The Fritter Shop concept. The apple fritters caught customers’ attention and they began asking for them year-round. The Dutch Bakery became Kelvin’s Fritter Shop in 2016 and now operates under the name The Fritter Shop.

“We’re a specialty Dutch dessert shop,” says Van Rijn, who describes how the brand uses its own homemade Dutch dough and custard to make its pastries in multiple flavours—not just apple.

The Fritter Shop in St. Thomas is still going strong, and Van Rijn has started to expand with his first franchised location this year, in a Pusateri’s supermarket in the North York neighbourhood in Toronto. There are also two other stores, which Van Rijn calls “licensee locations,” in north London and Strathroy, Ontario.

The Fritter Shop also sells its desserts at a local market in London. As for expansion, Van Rijn explains he’s not concentrating on brick-and-mortar locations at the moment. “With our franchising, we’re focusing on our food trucks.” And the system’s growth, he continues,

will be in the Greater Toronto Area, where he hopes to add 10 more locations by 2025.

The cost of a franchise runs from $175,000 to $200,000, which includes a wrapped truck. Training in London takes five to seven days. Van Rijn is looking for energetic investors who don’t mind working weekends and can weather the decline in business during the wintry months from January to March. Van Rijn says prospective franchisees should also have strong interpersonal leadership skills.

Previous business experience is also an asset. His target customers are mostly younger families and market shoppers looking to try something different.

As for the benefits of investing with The Fritter Shop, Van Rijn mentions the low cost of entry and his unique offering. “Nobody’s making the product we’re making,” he says. And he’s soon going to be making a lot more of it.

Come September, a new automated production facility in London will begin making 1,000 fritters an hour.

The COVID-19 lockdowns were tough, Van Rijn admits, because his business was based on selling where people gather.

However, it also prompted The Fritter Shop to try new things, including making deliveries. He and his staff made sometimes as many as 70 a day, and they keep up this volume to this day.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING

THE PURR-FECT FRANCHISE

Global Pet Foods multi-unit owner Amelia Kleinschmidt shares how she turned her passion for pets into a thriving business isten Bergum Photography

BY JOELLE KIDD

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NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING

A

melia Kleinschmidt always knew she wanted to start her own business one day, but it was a part-time job while she was a student at university that set her on her entrepreneurial path.

Kleinschmidt was hired at an independent pet supply store in Calgary, Alberta. “The store was so cool. I really loved everything about it,” she recalls. “[The owner] was so good at letting everyone do their own thing and have their own ideas to help support his business. When I was working there, I was going to university for political science, but mostly because I knew I had to go to university and had no idea what I wanted to do. It wasn’t until I was working there that I really figured out what I loved.”

Soon after, Kleinschmidt took a job at a Global Pet Foods in Calgary run by a friend. “I got to know the brand,” she says. Years later, “when I wanted to open my own store here in Vancouver, they were a natural fit for me.”

Good food, naturally After university, Kleinschmidt moved to B.C. and got her Masters of Business Administration. She then spent some time working for a major bank in the U.K., building up her financial knowledge and savings to start her own business. “I learned quite a lot about finance—we’re talking about way larger-scale businesses, but at the end of the day, you really understood a balance sheet, a profit and loss statement, and [what makes] people successful or not successful. I was able to take all that information and when I got back to Canada, I was able to run with this dream of leaving the corporate space and opening my own pet food store.”

Kleinschmidt says she was drawn to Global Pet Foods because it offered a mix of flexibility and support. “I was looking for an opportunity to open a store and be an entrepreneur, really make something unique and special to me. But I wanted and needed the support of a franchise.” According to Kleinschmidt, the brand offered help with designing the store, crafting marketing campaigns, picking brands, and negotiating buying contracts, so she could learn from proven systems and hit the ground running.

Global Pet Foods “is not a franchise where you kind of press start and the business operates itself,” Kleinschmidt notes. “It really requires the owners to be very deeply involved.” Along with continuous support, the brand allows owners to stock brands that fit their market and personal values. Part of the appeal of the brand is this personalization, Kleinschmidt says.

“Within this franchise, [though there are] a lot of similarities from store to store, you know when you’re walking into this store that you’re walking into a store owned by me. Everything I care about is written all over the store—in the products, in the service, in the way we get involved with the community. So it’s this perfect merger

of all the great things about an independent pet store with all the help and support of a franchise.”

When it comes to making sure her store has the right stock for her community, Kleinschmidt says it’s all about knowing your values and communicating them clearly.

“Knowing who you are and understanding who your intended customer is a really big deal,” she says. As a benchmark for choosing products, she asks, “Would I feed that to my own pet?”

Kleinschmidt also sells products made locally by small vendors in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, giving her shop hyper-local flair and helping to support the community.

“We’re not here to judge. There’s so many different products [...] so our strategy is really to give everyone the tools and the service to make the best decision for themselves. Because nobody knows their pet better than they do.”

This approach attracts a lot of like-minded franchisees, says Kleinschmidt. “We really all care about our community and what we’re all trying to achieve, which is high-quality, wholesome, natural pet food.”

A paw-sitive attitude The Global Pet Foods brand was founded in 1976 and currently has more than 215 locations across Canada. Along with food for all types of pets—including specialty diets

70 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Photo credit: Kristen Bergum Photography

NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING

and treats—Global Pet Foods stores offer pet accessories, grooming supplies, health supplements, and more.

Kleinschmidt opened her first store in Burnaby, B.C. in December 2019, just months before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. It made for a “stressful” first year, she says, but she weathered the storm and was able to open a second location last May. She has plans to eventually open even more stores.

Kleinschmidt’s day-to-day role as a multi-unit owner involves overseeing her managers and taking care of the behind-the-scenes work that keeps a business running smoothly: figuring out product mix, staffing, ordering, inventory management, and more.

“When I first opened, I was working open to close, seven days a week, really getting to know my customers,” she says. While diving in was helpful when starting the business, Kleinschmidt realized that schedule wasn’t sustainable. “Burnout is real,” she says with a laugh.

“Now I’m in the store probably 50 per cent of the week.”

All this hard work has paid off: Kleinschmidt’s store has been nominated for an award from Pets Canada (formerly PIJAC Canada) for best store in the chain store category. While the nomination was exciting, Kleinschmidt was equally happy to see how many other Global Pet Foods locations were nominated. “Each year that we get nominated, we’re always up against other Globals.

Which means that it’s really just a bunch of like-minded people, doing the same thing that I’m doing, which is trying to connect with our community and do the best for our community.”

Fresh ideas For Kleinschmidt, the best part of working in a franchise system is the community among franchisees. “Everyone is really supportive. We’re all trying to accomplish the same things. It’s really nice to be able to pick up the phone and ask someone a question.” She has also recently joined the system’s franchise advisory board, which offers even more opportunity to connect with other franchisees across the country.

Despite her formal training and experience in finance, Kleinschmidt says she learned a lot in her first few years of business. “Nothing prepares you like getting your hands

dirty and getting the work done. So when you’re able to learn from other people’s mistakes, that’s really nice!”

At age 36, Kleinschmidt is a young woman in business—“and I know that I look even younger than I am!” she adds—and she says she’s cognizant that she has to work hard to make sure her vendors and partners respect her as a business owner. Despite this, she sees her youth as a benefit, not a detriment.

“My personal experience has been that I come with a new perspective,” she says. “My franchise is really open to hearing what I have to say and adopting [different ways of doing things]. With such a longstanding brand, fresh ideas and new strategies are important,” she says.

“I’m certainly not as well-versed in, say, social media as some of the Gen Zs that are a little younger than me,” she says with a laugh. “But I feel like I was able to launch into some of those new platforms and new ways of marketing and connecting with people a little easier.”

Now, she says, she just has to make sure to return the favour. “I’m a millennial, and I do have people working for me that are Gen Z, and they even have new ideas that I haven’t thought of!”

When it comes to advice for those considering buying a franchise, Kleinschmidt says it’s important to consider work-life balance, right from the outset. “If I could go back in time, I would really tell myself that you’re doing better for your franchise and yourself if you make sure that you have a plan to find work-life balance,” she says.

Franchises, like any business, require hard work, and it’s important to build that balance in from the jump.

“I would never not do a franchise. It’s been such a positive experience. But it doesn’t mean you’re not still working really, really hard. You still have to come in and be an entrepreneur and pull your socks up and work hard—a franchise is not going to do the work for you. So be prepared to work hard, find balance, and enjoy it.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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LEADERSHIP PROFILE

Building a Standout Signage Brand

How Stuart Burns’ vision helped transform SpeedPro into a top-rated company

BY ROMA IHNATOWYCZ

S

tuart Burns is a man who likes a challenge. So, when he was presented with the opportunity to buy a single SpeedPro franchise, he politely declined because it was too small a business model for him at the time. Just a few months later, however, the franchisor returned with an offer to buy the whole company. That, says Burns, was more in line with the challenge he was looking for; he readily accepted.

Contrary to what many would think, Burns’ interest in SpeedPro wasn’t related to the fact that the brand was at the top of its game, expanding rapidly across the country. Instead, he felt the B2B signage brand was falling short of its full potential and had reached a bit of an impasse. Burns saw this as a wonderful opportunity to grow a successful national franchise business on his own terms.

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LEADERSHIP PROFILE

John DeHart and Stuart Burns with their awards for the Franchisees’ Choice Designation 2019

“If the business had been winning awards, and everyone had been doing well and the growth rate had been significant, I’m not sure I would have pursued it,” Burns reflects, joking, “The only thing I could do is mess it up!”

In reality, under Burns’ discerning leadership as president, SpeedPro has almost doubled the number of its franchisees—from 25 to 47—and spread its reach across six provinces. Burns succeeded in building SpeedPro into one of the country’s leading signage companies, creating signs, banners, event displays, car wraps, and window decals for a wide range of Canadian businesses.

Four-wheel driven Burns’ success with SpeedPro was a long time in the making. In the early part of his career, he worked in successively more senior positions in the automotive business.

However, the roots of his successful career, says Burns, started even earlier—with a love of cars as a child.

“I had always loved cars as a young kid,” says Burns. “I had a passion for vehicles and my dad would take me to visit showrooms when I was around eight or nine years old. So, it was no surprise to anyone in my family that I ended up in the car business.”

After completing a business degree, Burns worked at a major automotive brand in its corporate division, selling parts, cars, and trucks. By the time he was 28, he was selling entire dealerships, before moving to head office as a retail advertising manager. Eventually, he became a sales manager for the Ontario region, responsible for hundreds of thousands of vehicle sales annually.

One day, a friend approached him and asked him to manage his biggest dealership. Ready for a change, Burns agreed, which gave him the training and skillset he needed for his next career move: purchasing his own dealership franchise, located in Winnipeg. “I ran the dealership for five years, [working] six days a week, and then took a year off to just decompress a bit,” says Burns.

It was then that the owner of SpeedPro approached him about buying his company, and Burns found himself facing yet another fork in his professional road. While he didn’t know much about the B2B signage business, he was confident that his lengthy and varied career with the auto franchise, including his time as a franchisee, primed him well for this new challenge. Everything, he says, had dovetailed perfectly.

“All of the pieces of my career had built a foundation,” comments Burns. “It gave me a great perspective in terms of understanding what franchisees needed for success. And I also had experience in sales and advertising and marketing. These were all pieces of the puzzle that led me to where I am now and into this chair.”

Building SpeedPro After buying the business, Burns moved SpeedPro’s headquarters from Kelowna, British Columbia to Winnipeg, Manitoba (which he still calls home) and took stock of the operation. The first few years, he says, were all about building a solid foundation for growth. He spoke to franchisees to learn which aspects of the business needed improvement and started putting action plans in place.

This included bringing in a new director of operations, Jim Wernham, eliminating vendor rebates, and cancelling an ad fund—all welcome changes for franchisees. A few years in, he also took the bold step of changing the brand’s selling model to one based on exceptional, quality service rather than price.

That decision marked a major change for franchisees and a turning point for the company. Not all SpeedPro franchisees welcomed the shift, and a handful even sold their businesses. But for Burns, it presented the only way to succeed in a sector where everyone was offering essentially the same product, and all were competing on price.

“At a conference presentation I had a slide that showed a photo of a million penguins on a beach somewhere, and I said, ‘That’s our marketplace. Can you see us in there?’” says Burns. “But what nobody in the signage market had at the time is what I call a premium brand. Everyone’s reflex was just to compete on price.”

Burns set to work turning SpeedPro into that toprated, premium-service company, and it proved an auspicious move. “In our first year after we became an exceptional service brand, we experienced the highest sales increase year we’d ever had. The momentum was there,” Burns says.

74 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

LEADERSHIP PROFILE Accelerated growth Burns also developed clear brand values to further cement the company’s business ethos and ensure new franchisees fit well into its operation. Those values are encapsulated in just three words—reliable, persistent, and intelligent. A brand alignment quiz was then developed to help the company select new franchisees.

Alignment with SpeedPro’s core values is not all that Burns looks for in new franchisees. Ideally, they should have some sales background as well, regardless of the industry. “It doesn’t matter what they were selling, but they need to be comfortable going into a meeting not necessarily knowing the people and being able to break the ice and build business trust,” he says.

Involvement in their local community is also important, through coaching sports teams or volunteering at neighbourhood events, as well as goal setting. Burns feels that people who set goals are more likely to succeed in reaching them. The size and scope of the goal, he notes, isn’t as important as the act of goal setting itself: “One applicant was avoiding telling me her goal because she thought it was shallow: she wanted to buy a convertible and had a picture of a convertible pinned in front of her desk. I thought it was fantastic!”

Burns has been steadily growing SpeedPro at a calculated rate of about two to four new franchises a year, a pace he is comfortable with. Expansion plans include opening SpeedPro shops in all 10 provinces and three territories; however, Burns stresses he’s less focused on building a large network and more on building a successful one. “I’d like to have representation in every province, to be fully national,” he says. “But as far as total count goes, I’m more concerned about all the locations being successful.”

When asked to reflect on SpeedPro’s success, Burns doesn’t talk about bullish marketing or effective sales strategy. Instead, he highlights the importance of building and supporting a great team. It all comes down to the people, he says, sharing a piece of advice once offered to him by a mentor: “Treat your team like gold and they’ll build you a rainbow.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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EVENTS SEPTEMBER

MFV FRANCHISE EXPO SOUTH September 8-9 | Ft. Lauderdale, FL

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IFA ADVOCACY SUMMIT September 11-13 | Washington, DC

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FRANCHISE LEADERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE October 18-20 | Atlanta, GA Partnership event with Franchise Update Media

NOVEMBER

EMERGING FRANCHISOR CONFERENCE November 1-3 | New Orleans, LA

For more information & registration, scan here or visit Franchise.org/events

A DAY IN THE LIFE

The Mark of Success How a P.E.I. couple built a successful business while capturing memorable moments

BY SUZANNE BOWNESS

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

W

hen we talk about a Hallmark moment, it calls to mind a special occasion that we want to commemorate, like birthdays and anniversaries. Perhaps that’s not surprising, given that the company has been around since 1910.

Today, the company’s umbrella includes iconic brands like the Hallmark Channel, Gold Crown card stores, and even Crayola.

On Prince Edward Island, the story of Hallmark is the story of a couple, Wanda and Lawson MacEachern. They opened their first Charlottetown location in April 2013, a second store off the island in November 2013, and a third location in P.E.I. in November of 2016. In 2023, they celebrated the 10th anniversary of their Charlottetown location. This year also marks their third wedding anniversary, although the couple has been together for 20 years.

The couple got married at the island location during a COVID-19 lockdown. Predictably, the celebration featured many wedding gifts and decorations sold at their Hallmark store.

So, what’s a typical day like for franchisees entering year 10 of store ownership? Wanda says at the start it was all about finding their way. “Starting off, we worked seven days a week, before opening and after closing. However, after a few months, we settled into a routine that really worked for us,” she says.

Today, technology helps manage their work-life balance. “Being able to log in remotely to our inventory and point-of-sale (POS) systems has given us the comfort and ability to stay in contact without spending so much of our time in-store.”

Complementary leadership Still, part of the adventure of retail is that each day is a little different. “Typical days sometimes don’t go as planned. But when they do, we’re working in-store with office work, opening the store, merchandising product, scheduling, ordering and receiving, and updating our inventory system,” says Wanda, adding that years of experience have proven that variety is the norm. “The trick is to roll with it. Most days are ad-libbed, making lists of things to be done and prioritizing the most important activities on the list.”

Another factor that helped the MacEacherns find their routine was learning how to share the workload. “We are very passionate about our business and complement each other,” says Wanda. “I’m very much a people person who enjoys the planning and merchandising of our stores. Lawson is aggressive in his buying and is always looking for something new.”

While both Lawson and Wanda have many years of retail experience (Lawson completed a course in retail management as part of his post-secondary education, and Wanda completed her diploma in business manage-

ment), their business has given them a decade of practice to pair with the theory.

“Over the past 10 years we have become very accustomed to projecting, forecasting, and achieving our sales goals, season over season and year over year,” says Wanda. Of course, the other benefit is their time spent in the community. “Getting to know our valued customers over the years and being able to help them through many of life’s milestones—including happy events, stressful times, and losses in their families—and sharing our own personal and ‘work family’s’ milestones with them as well has been a highlight,” she says.

Like any business, the MacEacherns have also faced challenges, especially in recent years. They had to shutter their second store off the Island during the pandemic.

Today they’re dealing with the rising cost of inventory and freight, as well as the rising cost of living and interest rates that have resulted in less discretionary spending.

Dealing with these challenges is a work in progress. “We are continually working to keep pricing reasonable and offer great products to our customers at a good value,” says Wanda. “It’s important that we provide competitive solutions that will meet their wants and needs—both those of our loyal customers as well as those who may be new to our business.”

A bona fide greeting card brand Part of staying top of mind with customers is their store’s name recognition, one of the reasons they bought in initially. “The Hallmark brand has been around for 100-plus years. It has been, and continues to be, a top-selling brand for all occasions—from expecting a child to the death of a loved one and every milestone in between,” says Wanda,

78 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

A DAY IN THE LIFE adding that the franchise’s established rewards program also helps to create repeat visits as customers seek out products that are only available at Hallmark Gold Crown stores. “You may be able to purchase general Hallmark cards or merchandise in the mass market but will not get the exclusivity, attention to detail, and great customer service that Hallmark Gold Crown stores offer.”

Wanda also loves that the franchise is open to them offering products that are complementary to the brand.

“We love introducing new and exciting products to our community and we utilize social media, our website, and local radio ads to generate excitement around what is happening in our stores,” she says. She notes that the store’s website has developed a strong following across Canada and attracts repeat orders.

So, what keeps the MacEacherns going? Both customers and family. “What we love most about Hallmark is our customers—being able to help them find that perfect card and/or gift, having someone say ‘thank you so much for your help,’ having our customers tell us their stories, making someone’s day, hearing about the special occasions our customers are shopping for, being there to listen with a sympathetic ear, and making a difference in even the smallest of ways,” says Wanda.

She also enjoys working with her husband. “We love being able to work together and have built a profitable business that we enjoy. We believe we have created a great working environment for our work family. When we opened, we had both our daughters working with us. Our oldest daughter continues to work with us and is a key member of our management team.”

With years of experience, the MacEacherns have a few recommendations to those who want to follow them into Hallmark ownership. While their own retail experience helped the MacEacherns tremendously, they don’t believe it’s 100 per cent necessary to be successful. What they do recommend is having a good business sense and a strong business plan, training and working with staff effectively, finding a good location with fair rent, and finally, working hands-on in the business. “It is key that you work in your store and stay involved with the business, regardless of how long you have been an owner.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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THE FIRST YEAR

Rural Canadian Meets Mediterranean

Osmow’s franchisee Jatin Sapra brings Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours to small-town Ontario

BY DANIEL MCINTOSH

S

ince it was founded in 2001, Osmow’s has become a prominent shawarma franchise, growing to more than 150 locations across North America. The brand offers a range of classic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes including pita wraps stuffed with chicken, beef, lamb, Beyond Steak™ or falafel, plus a wide assortment of veggies and signature sauces.

For Jatin Sapra, the “good food” was what drew him to franchising with Osmow’s. “I need to able to vouch for what I’m serving to my guests. With Osmow’s, I know I can,” says Sapra. “I can hold my head high and say—whatever my guests are eating—it’s good. It’s really good.”

Sapra already has experience as a franchisee (he also owns several burger franchises), and his ability to spot stellar franchise opportunities hasn’t dulled. In fact, it’s taught him which qualities to look for in a well-run, profitable business, like the good marketing and memorable customer service he found with Osmow’s familyrun head office. “When there’s a family name behind the brand, the standard of service is that much higher,” he notes. “People do come in and tell me, ‘We know Sam, and we’ve been to the location where he actually started.’

It makes you feel proud that you’re a part of a company that people are really talking about and I really appreciate that.”

A suburban shawarma boom Sapra opened his first Osmow’s location in Cambridge in July 2022 and says, “support from the head office was tremendous.” But opening a restaurant comes with its own set of challenges that can only be managed head-on by a franchisee.

80 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

THE FIRST YEAR

He says most issues can be effectively managed if the franchisee is actively engaged in the business. “They need to be hands-on; they need to be able to get their hands dirty,” says Sapra. “If you’re up for that, then yes, this is the right choice.”

Because of his franchising experience before joining Osmow’s, Sapra had bona fide food handling and business management skills, which made the onboarding process easier. He recommends that incoming franchisees have a similar background.

Furthermore, Sapra says franchisees need employee management skills to address staffing issues and guide their locations through some of the tough situations that restauranteurs may find themselves in. “You should be a people person. If your employees are happy, then you’ll have a smile on your face,” he says.

Sapra recently opened a second location in the hamlet of Paris, Ontario and he’s anticipating a third location by the end of the year in Waterloo, Ontario. “I’m only in smaller towns, so I have to have expertise and be involved with the community,” says Sapra. “It’s the same guidance I got from Osmow’s, that community is the biggest value in small towns. Make sure you’re involved in that.”

The recipe for franchise success He abides by a list of three essentials when it comes to outstanding food service. “One is food safety. Second is cleanliness: the restaurant should always be top-notch clean when guests walk in. The third is an excellent guest experience,” Sapra explains. “When guests walk in, make it feel like it’s their restaurant—so whatever they’re ordering, they can feel confident in ordering from us.”

Inspiring confidence among guests is especially important when introducing new concepts in rural areas.

Sapra notes that Canadians in smaller towns are looking for additional variety, saying people appreciate Osmow’s and want to try it. “They’re going to say, ‘I really want to try Middle Eastern cuisine today’ or ‘feed me something out of my comfort zone,’” says Sapra.

Despite approaching Osmow’s with experience in franchising, Sapra still received training from the head office. For Osmow’s franchisees, training begins with a two- to four-week stint at the corporate restaurant, cycling through the various duties of restaurant management including POS (point of sale) systems and applications. “I trained for almost 17 days, and I was ready to open my own restaurant,” recalls Sapra.

Despite the rising cost of goods and services, he says that Osmow’s has fared well with supply management. While other brands may struggle to consistently receive product, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Osmow’s’ centralized commissary and established connections with suppliers make it easier for franchisees to maintain their in-store experience. “When we are facing guests in the front it’s a problem if we have to say no to them,” says Sapra. “We just don’t want to say no to the guests, and [the corporate team] makes sure that everything we need is very easily accessible.”

Although he’s only just celebrated his first anniversary as an Osmow’s franchisee, Sapra says he would love to open even more locations with the stellar support of the head office team behind him. Similarly, he wants to provide opportunities for managers and employees working at his stores to act like leaders. “I don’t consider them as employees. I consider them as being on my team.”

Keeping the team members happy, although easier said than done, is the basis for success, according to Sapra. “My biggest suggestion would be to work towards your management skill and be a people person because if your people are happy, then yes, you can definitely work wonders.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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ICONIC BRAND

TRIED-AND-TRUE TEACHING Kumon offers franchisees like Neelam Bandali a fulfilling franchise opportunity that has stood the test of time

BY KYM WOLFE

T

he basics of a child’s education, as the old saying goes, are reading, writing and ‘rithmetic. Kumon has focused on those fundamental literacy and math skills since it opened its first learning centre in Japan in 1956. Since then, it’s grown into one of the largest and longest-running supplementary education programs in the world, with more than 26,000 Kumon Centres worldwide.

It’s all thanks to the Kumon Method, a proprietary program that doesn’t follow any school curriculum. Instead, students progress at their own pace, using self-directed worksheets designed to build a strong foundation in math, reading, and writing skills before moving on to more complex material with the ultimate goal of studying content above their grade level.

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ICONIC BRAND

The first Canadian Kumon Centre opened in 1980 and is still operated by its original owner. Many franchisees are long-term operators, and some are reaching retirement age. That, as well as increasing demand within newly built and growing communities, is creating opportunities for new franchisees to join the Kumon system.

Kumon currently has 411 locations in Canada. With a mission to bring the Kumon Method to as many children as possible, the franchise is constantly analyzing markets to identify new opportunities, says Craig Mayer, the manager of centre network development for the Canadian market.

“There is no one-size-fits-all profile for franchisees,” says Mayer. “A great starting point is people who have experience working with children—educating, coaching, mentoring—and have a strong understanding of both English and math literacy. Beyond that, we look for people with experience managing a business and employees, a strong network in their community, and a proven history of delivering top-notch customer service.”

Edmonton, Alberta franchise owner Neelam Bandali worked as a corporate accountant before joining the Kumon family. “I am originally from Pakistan and studied in Dubai and the United States before moving to Canada 17 years ago.” After her children were born, she wanted more autonomy and flexibility from her work, so Bandali decided to open her own business. Rather than starting from scratch herself, she decided to explore established franchises with good reputations. She opened her Kumon Centre in 2016.

“I always thought that if I didn’t go down the accounting path, I would have been a teacher,” Bandali recalls. Indeed, teaching seems to run in the family. Bandali’s husband works in adult education as a post-secondary instructor and her uncle is a Kumon franchisee, which was one of the reasons she was inspired to look into the franchise.

“Kumon’s philosophy of teaching students to be independent learners excited both my husband and me,” Bandali says. “Kumon has been around for six decades and is recognized as being the top educational franchise in the world. It takes care of most of the marketing and provides all of the worksheets and ongoing training and support.”

Mayer says Kumon can be a rewarding business for those who want to do meaningful work. “Being an owneroperated business, our instructors get to work directly with children to help them learn and succeed, and to bridge learning gaps caused by disruption to learning during the pandemic.”

This sense of meaningfulness is one of the things that Bandali appreciates most. “It’s so rewarding to see students progress, gain confidence, and become independent learners,” she says. Whether it’s the “Aha!” expression on a student’s face when they figure out a question on their own or seeing students who relied on finger counting do mental math with ease or having parents tell her that school has become easier for their children, she says, “I am so proud of all of my students’ achievements!”

Extra credit for students and franchisees Franchisees are required to complete Kumon’s Instructor Development Program—a thorough series of training courses, hands on in-centre training, and individual coaching by a Field Consultant Specialist in all aspects of running their centre. Kumon provides ongoing training and coaching once the franchisee starts operations. At monthly meetings, franchisees discuss different topics of interest and share best practices.

Typically, a franchisee will handle assessments, orientation, lesson planning, and marketing and administration, as well as be present when the centre is open, marking worksheets as students complete them, and providing

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ICONIC BRAND Neelam Bandali and the staff at her Edmonton, Alberta Kumon franchise location.

feedback. Each child’s program is individualized, and lesson planning can be time consuming.

Since classes happen after school and on weekends, Mayer says, “This is not a Monday-to-Friday, 9-to-5 job.

The time needed to operate and grow the business can be substantial.” Franchisees hire assistants as the business grows, but Kumon does expect them to remain a hands-on owner/instructor.

When franchisees decide to hire additional staff, finding the right people isn’t always easy. “Staff retention is a big challenge in our business,” says Bandali. “Initially, it was very difficult to find the right group of staff who understood the business.”

To make hiring and retention easier, Bandali learned to ask the right questions during the interview process, created policies and guidelines for staff, and spent a lot of time with staff during the initial and ongoing training.

“I have been very fortunate in that I have had a few longterm staff members who understand both the Kumon philosophy and my style very well,” Bandali says. “I am grateful to have a great team who is always there to support me and ensure the business is running smoothly.”

Bandali also struggled initially with finding work-life balance. In the beginning, it was more than a full-time job, she says, and she relied on her husband’s support to manage the household when she couldn’t be at home.

“Ensuring the entire family is on board when taking on any new business venture is critical,” she says. “We made an informed family decision and knew Kumon would be our ‘third child,’ and that everyone would need to contribute.”

Technology-assisted teaching Kumon Connect, which launched in 2023, may make Bandali’s job easier when she brings it into her centre.

The platform uses tablets instead of the traditional pencil-and-paper worksheets for both in-centre and virtual learning. “Offering our program on Kumon Connect allows faster turnaround time for grading and can help improve lesson planning and better remote learning, which benefits both our students and instructors,” says Mayer. “It links the traditional benefits of the Kumon Method and handwritten answers with the technology and convenience families are expecting.”

Initially Bandali didn’t bring tablets into her Kumon Centre. “I saw that people were fatigued from all of the online schooling during COVID, and I was reluctant at first to use Kumon Connect,” she says. But after speaking to other franchise owners who have used the platform, she’s now planning to introduce it in the coming year.

Seven years in, Bandali is still happy with her decision to franchise with Kumon. “Even though my uncle owned a Kumon, I did a lot of research on my own,” she says, and she advises all aspiring franchise owners to do the same. “Do as much research as you can, develop a business plan, and ensure you have enough savings just in case the business doesn’t do as well as you hoped in the first few years, as there will always be factors that will be out of your control,” she says. “Go into your new business venture with an open mind, realizing that it’s going to take time to see long-term results.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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The #1 Tool Brand in the World Snap-on Tools has a proven franchise model and 100+ years of serving makers and fixers all over the globe

S

nap-on Tools has been named Entrepreneur’s top tool franchise for over 10 years, has been recognized by Franchise Business Review as a Recession-Proof Franchise, and is a member of the elite Franchise Business Review Hall of Fame. Snap-on Tools, as the leading innovator, manufacturer, and marketer of high-end tools and equipment for professionals, powered through the health and economic challenges of the pandemic and continued to serve its loyal customers, as it has throughout its 100+ years of existence.

Essential to the Essential Snap-on’s commitment to what it calls “Essential to the Essential” is a phrase that hits right at the core of what Snap-on Tools is all about, according to Tom Kasbohm, director of franchising. “Snap-on has a legacy as an innovative manufacturer and productivity solutions provider that services technicians in the bays where critical work is done,” he said.

“Snap-on is an iconic brand well recognized by the makers and fixers that keep our nation moving forward.”

During the upheavals of the past few years, we all became more

familiar with the term “essential workers.” Snap-on played an important role in supporting essential workers in countless ways to keep the transportation infrastructure running—for deliveries of critical goods and services, the operation and maintenance of emergency vehicles, and helping ensure health care and other essential workers had reliable transportation to get to and from their homes and places of business.

“Snap-on Tools franchise owners demonstrated to the entire world they could find a way to serve their customers, even in the midst of one of

For more information, visit SnaponFranchise.com

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Join Canada’s largest franchise community and we’ll grow your business together!

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Discover all the benefits of CFA membership!

Contact Lou Gervasi at (416) 419-3100 or lgervasi@cfa.ca Learn more at cfa.ca/join

Resources

SHOW ME THE MONEY

4 FRANCHISES FOR $250K-$500K Franchising is about diversity, and opportunities can 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 $250K-$500K. Massage Experts

Music Go Round

Massage Experts elevates the clinical experience.

They offer a welcoming first visit rate and a monthly preferred pricing program. Clients realize savings, while the franchisee is provided with predictable monthly revenues. The clinics offer a superior and stylish ambiance in a gender-friendly atmosphere. Book your next appointment or buy a gift card online or on their app. Clients choose how they would like to communicate and interact.

Music Go Round buys, sells, and trades quality used music gear, providing the ultimate used gear resource for musicians. With more than 50,000 unique musical instruments published online and more available for in-store pickup, it offers the largest selection of quality used musical instrument in the market. Music Go Round franchisees can enjoy owning a high-margin business in an industry they’re passionate about.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Topper’s Pizza

Metal Supermarkets Metal Supermarkets is a Toronto, Ontario-based franchisor of metal distributors. It focuses on small quantities of virtually all types, shapes, and grades of metal, cut to size, with same day service. Franchisees carry most standard shapes and grades of hot- and cold-rolled steel, aluminum, stainless steel, as well as more specialized types such as brass and copper. Stores will also source hard-to-find material on demand. Value added services such as cutting, shearing, hole punching, and bending are available at all stores with additional services available as stores grow.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Topper’s Pizza is a premium QSR brand that has been satisfying pizza-lovers’ cravings in neighbourhoods across Ontario for more than 40 years. Every pizza is crafted on an Authentic Italian Bread Crust™, made daily from a centuryold family recipe. It’s topped with fresh ingredients, resulting in exceptional pies that are made by a team who are passionate about bringing friends and family together through a great pizza experience. At Topper’s Pizza, Franchise Partners are more than business partners, they’re family. Join the Topper’s Pizza family and own a business you can be proud of. From start to finish, you’ll be supported as you uncover the true recipe for success!

®

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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FRANCHISE FUN

BERNARD OF THE BOARDWALK Martin Bernard brings Canadians brilliant franchise opportunities along with Boardwalk’s gourmet burgers

BY DANIEL MCINTOSH

88 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

FRANCHISE FUN

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oardwalk Burgers was born out of a nostalgic love for childhood classics: burgers, fries, and shakes, served on the warm sand in the crisp sea air.

Martin Bernard, the brand’s VP of franchise development, is the man responsible for bringing the Boardwalk’s delicious burgers to Canada, along with Lava Grill, a Mediterranean cuisine concept. Boardwalk’s gourmet burgers fill a niche for high-quality halal classics made with love. And it’s catching on: since the start

of 2023, the brand has launched 16 stores, Bernard says excitedly. He expects to have 50 new stores open by the end of the year.

Even though he has grand ambitions to bring 100 Boardwalk locations to Canada and is planning his retirement in the Caribbean, he still finds time to share his expertise with his franchisees. Here, Bernard tells Franchise Canada about the qualities he looks for in franchisees, his favourite beer, and how he never backs down from some friendly competition.

The most interesting thing I’ve done recently is… Travel to B.C. to look for new sites, meet great prospective franchisees, and find real estate agents to develop the market. Fifteen franchisees signed up!

The most important thing in life is… Family. It’s as simple as that.

In its best form, work is…

Very satisfying.

The hardest thing for me to do is… Doing four franchise shows in one month. The back-to-back plane trips can get quite rough.

A good franchisee… Is someone who’s an owner-operator who executes the training precisely— not just an investor.

A good franchisor… Is one that takes care of their franchisees.

During COVID, we stopped collecting advertising and royalty funds for three years to help our franchisees make it through the pandemic.

My top advice for prospective franchisees is… Expect to work very hard at the start to achieve long-term success.

My top advice for new franchisors is… Show that you care about your franchisees and care about their success.

One of the most enjoyable things to do is… Setting up franchisees with locations and seeing them become successful, because their reaction is priceless.

My favourite drink is…

An ice-cold Heineken.

Canadian franchising is…

Harder than it looks. There’s a lot of competition so be ready to compete! But with the proper dedication you can pull it off.

My franchise system began because… There was a need for a halal gourmet burger brand in Canada.

The most positive influence on my life as a person is… My wife, my kids, and my grandkids.

The key to success is…

Never giving up.

If I could change one thing…

I would find more time to exercise.

I’d like my friends to describe me as… A good human being.

If I could meet anyone…

I would meet Barack Obama.

He changed the world and is a dedicated politician who believes in his people, not just himself.

The person who has had the most positive influence on me as a businessperson is…

Werner Lomker. He was my franchisor when I started franchising. With his guidance, I was able to develop 12 stores on my own.

The accomplishment I look forward to the most is…

Developing over 100 stores in Canada.

My personal motto is…

Never give up!

One necessary item on my life’s “to do” list is…

To travel more and build my new home in Trinidad.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Q A

ASK A FRANCHISE EXPERT How do franchisees determine the perfect franchise opportunity?

WITH 30-PLUS YEARS IN FRANCHISING and helping more than 2,000 prospective franchise buyers search for their optimum franchise, I’ve seen it all. After interviewing some of the highest-performing franchisees across numerous industries for my book, The Unstoppable Franchisee, I gleaned some clues for success from the most successful franchisees.

In this article we’ll look at how successful franchisees chose their ideal franchise, so that you can apply their lessons to your own franchise search. After all, achieving optimum success in franchise ownership only happens when you choose the right business.

Highly successful people know what they want and why they want it. They are focused and intentional about how to get what they want and seek guidance from franchise brokers, accountants, and lawyers who can help them with their search. This is one of the primary reasons they turn to franchise ownership—because they get to draw on the knowledge and experience of the franchisor, and benefit from the collective intellectual capital of all the franchisees in that franchise family.

Before starting their search, they took time to assess what they could bring to the business, and what they would want their life to look like as a successful business owner. Here are some key items successful franchisees consider before they decide on a franchise opportunity: • Money: How much of their own funds are they comfortable with injecting into the business, and how much are they capable of borrowing?

•T ime: How many hours per week will they be able to dedicate to running the business, and what will the weekly structure of that time be? Will the business have traditional Monday-to-Friday hours or seven-days-a-week retail hours? Are they willing to be available evenings and weekends, or do they turn their phone off at 5 p.m. on the dot?

•T ransferable skills: What aspects of the business do they excel at and what should they keep doing in their new franchise? Which skills need improvement/training to effectively run their business, and what types of work do they want to avoid (if it’s a core requirement in the new business).

•O perational and lifestyle criteria: How will the requirements of the business impact their existing lifestyle? Criteria like hours of work, number of employees, and whether the franchise is home or location-based, etc. These criteria are very important in determining a good franchise fit, since once the business is up and running, they will determine the very nature of the business and the quality of life it

will provide the owner. Strong franchisees take the upfront time to identify at least 10 to 12 criteria and rank them in order of importance.

•F inancial and lifestyle goals for franchise ownership: Where the criteria above are ongoing, financial and lifestyle goals are the outcomes of running a successful business. How do they define their success?

What level of income do they want to be earning once the business hits full stride (usually after one to two years)? Do they want to continue to work full-time or build a team that can eventually take over the dayto-day operations? What about their exit strategy?

Do they want to build something that has substantial value they can eventually sell, or do they want to pass it down through the generations?

•C larity of purpose/passion. Having a business that’s closely aligned with one’s passion and purpose is essential to higher levels of success. Franchisees don’t have to love the product or service, or even use it personally, but they must have passion for the core work that it takes to get that product or service into the customers’ hands and have strong conviction in the value proposition that comes with that product or service.

Why was it so important to do this introspection work before starting the search? The more clarity the franchisees had about the elements above, the better they were able to assess which businesses could satisfy these criteria. And just as importantly, they knew what they didn’t want, so they knew what to avoid. They were quickly able to eliminate businesses that they wouldn’t enjoy managing or be effective at, even if that business had a strong brand or other appealing factors.

If you’re actively searching for a franchise and haven’t identified what you want from franchise ownership and why you want it, maybe it’s time to press pause for a few days and do some serious introspection. I can guarantee that the businesses you’re considering will look very different, and you’ll probably be surprised at which businesses are your best potential fit!

90 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Gary Prenevost President, Southern Ontario and Eastern Canada FranNet Gprenevost@frannet.com

Q A

ASK A LEGAL EXPERT

What are my obligations once I sign a franchise agreement?

TO START A FRANCHISE RELATIONSHIP with a franchisor, franchisees must enter into a franchise agreement. Each franchise agreement will differ based on the franchise and will contain certain obligations that franchisees must comply with. As a franchisee, it’s important to understand the terms of your franchise agreement, and your rights and obligations under the agreement.

This article will touch on eight general obligations franchisees have once they sign a franchise agreement.

1. Financial 2. Personal guarantees 3. Confidentiality and non-competition 4. Training 5. Authorized products and services 6. Permits and licences 7. Operation manual 8. Obligations under the law 1. Financial You will be required to pay a franchise fee. This upfront initial fee becomes payable once the franchise agreement is signed. You may also be required to pay royalties to the franchisor, which will either be charged as a percentage of your gross sales or as a mark-up on products purchased.

You will also be required to pay initial and ongoing costs such as facility costs, licensing fees, marketing fees, initial staffing costs, grand opening advertising fees, rent, insurance, and purchasing the support, marketing, and training materials from the franchise. All costs will be outlined in the franchise agreement and franchise disclosure document.

2. Personal guarantees A franchisor will commonly require a franchisee to provide a personal guarantee. A personal guarantee ensures the guarantor is held personally liable for the amounts owed by the franchisee, and that they comply with the terms of the franchise agreement.

3. Confidentiality and non-competition Most franchise agreements require you to keep all the information that you learn about the franchise system confidential. This obligation applies even after the franchise relationship has ended.

Franchise agreements also have a non-competition clause. This clause states that for an agreed period of time after the franchisee leaves the system, they cannot compete against the franchisor within a certain geographic area.

4. Training Each franchisor will require you and other members of your management team to attend and successfully complete their specified training program before opening a franchise. You will generally be responsible for the fees related to the training program, as well as subsequent attendance and completion by yourself and your management team, and any other related expenses.

5. Authorized products and services Often, the franchisee must agree to use only the equipment, products, supplies, documents, and signage and provide only the services that the franchisor has approved. The franchisee may also be required to use only the suppliers that the franchisor specifies, which could include the franchisor themselves and their affiliates. The franchisee may also be required to comply with the franchisor’s pre-established standards for appearance, function, and performance of the franchise.

6. Permits and licences Typically, franchise agreements contain provisions which will require you to obtain all business permits and licences necessary to open that specific franchise. Failure to comply with licensing laws may result in a breach of the franchise agreement and fines from external third parties, such as regulatory bodies and government agencies.

7. Operation manual You must also comply with the franchisor’s operation manual. The manual outlines the day-to-day operations of the business and specifies the standards and procedures of the franchise system, as well as the franchisee’s particular obligations in the operation of the franchise. The operation manual may set out how you can hire and train employees, the franchisor’s standards and procedures, maintenance of product quality, and marketing strategies.

(continued on page 105) Simi Solebo Associate Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP ssolebo@cassels.com

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FRANCHISE TUTORIAL

TUTORIAL 3: THE FUNDAMENTALS OF FRANCHISING

INTRO TO DEPOSITS DEPOSITS ARE OFTEN COLLECTED by franchisors prior to entering into a full franchise agreement. They’re typically a percentage of the initial franchise fee or the full initial franchise fee amount. When entering into a franchise agreement, the deposit is credited towards the amounts owing. Should the potential franchisee choose not to move forward with the agreement, the deposit may or may not be refunded. There’s usually a Deposit Agreement that’s entered into at the same time the deposit is made. This agreement defines how and if the deposit will be returned, provides timelines, and typically addresses the issue of confidentiality. Deposits are paid prior to entering into a franchise agreement.

The main purpose of the deposit, from the franchisor perspective, is to differentiate the serious candidates from casual enquiries to the franchise opportunity. Franchisors often deal with hundreds of enquiries every month, and simply cannot begin to work at finding locations or assist with bank financing with everyone. A deposit allows franchisors to properly allocate its resources and ensure that there’s some compensation in the event that the prospective franchisee doesn’t move forward. The franchisor is also concerned with confidentiality. The deposit agreement will often have clauses stating that the provided proprietary information will be kept confidential and that appropriate materials will be returned.

From a potential franchisee perspective, deposits will often permit one to put a territory on hold so that the potential franchisee can do their due diligence, arrange financing, have documents reviewed by a lawyer, or find an approved location.

By paying a deposit, potential franchisees demonstrate their seriousness in the franchise opportunity and can ensure that resources are being prudently spent. The franchisor will normally work with potential franchisees to remove conditions on the deposit agreement, while reserving the desired territory for a limited period of time.

Deposits can be refundable, partially refundable, or non-refundable, depending upon the circumstances and primarily how much time the franchisor spends working with the potential franchisee. The franchisor wants to be compensated for its efforts in, for example, reviewing locations or assisting potential franchisees with their business plan. Franchisors should provide deposit agreements that

clarify how and if the deposit is refunded. If the franchisor does not provide a deposit agreement, potential franchisees should have one created to avoid dependency on verbal discussions. It’s important that deposit agreements are read carefully and are reviewed by a lawyer so that there’s clarity as to the terms and conditions.

Provincial legislation has put in place certain laws to protect the public regarding franchise deposits. In Ontario, franchisors cannot require potential franchisees to pay a deposit or sign a deposit agreement until the potential franchisee has had 14 days to review the Disclosure Document. In Alberta, the franchisor can collect a deposit prior to the review of the document and entering a franchise agreement, but such deposits must be refundable and can only be for a maximum of 20 per cent of the initial franchise fee. The deposit agreement must also be limited to the issues of confidentiality, location, and non-use of the franchisor’s information.

Deposits are a great way for potential franchisees to show that they’re serious about the franchise opportunity, and provide some initial compensation to the franchisor for preliminary work and to reserve a territory for potential franchisees. The deposit agreement protects the interests of both the potential franchisee and the franchisor.

92 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Watch the Franchise Tutorials video on Deposits

FRANCHISE TUTORIAL

TUTORIAL 4: THE FUNDAMENTALS OF FRANCHISING

INTRO TO DISCLOSURE DOCUMENTS DISCLOSURE DOCUMENTS are a summary of information on the franchisor, its executive team, and its franchise agreements. The document is provided to potential franchisees so that they may make a more fully informed business decision. In Canada, franchise systems are required by law to provide a Disclosure Document to prospective franchisees in provinces where franchise legislation is enacted. (Learn more about provincial franchise legislation at https://cfa.ca/franchise-legislation). Franchise systems are only legally required to provide Disclosure Documents in these six provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. However, many franchisors provide a disclosure document across all of Canada to assist prospective franchisees in learning about the franchise opportunity.

Franchisors have different application processes for franchisees, but will typically provide the Disclosure Document to prospective franchisees once they’ve been qualified as a potential franchisee and have shown serious interest in the franchise opportunity. It isn’t a public document, and is usually only available to serious investors.

When a franchise system fails to provide proper disclosure within the provinces where disclosure is legally required, potential franchisees may have the ability to rescind the franchise agreement for up to two years from when the franchise was granted. In the event that the agreement is rescinded, the law may also provide that potential franchisees will be compensated for all losses incurred in acquiring, setting up, and operating the franchise business. Be sure to speak with your franchise lawyer for details.

The Disclosure Document must meet legislative requirements and disclose all material facts regarding the franchise opportunity and the franchise system’s history. There are required statements pertaining to risk and seeking legal and financial advice.

A typical Table of Contents in a Disclosure Document might read as follows: • Corporate name of the franchisor • Nature of the business • Business experience of the directors and officers of the franchisor • Previous convictions, civil actions, administrative proceedings, bankruptcies or liabilities of the franchisor, its directors, officers, and associates

• Initial investment required • Other fees payable under the franchise agreement • Estimate on working capital, annual operating costs • Earning projections • Training provided, with outline of initial training program • Financing arrangements • Assistance provided by the franchisor • Franchisee obligations • Marketing fund: use of, past spending, projected spending • Restrictions on what and to whom franchisees may sell • Special licences required • Volume rebates and discount policies • Obligations to participate in the actual operations of the franchised business • Trademarks patents, and copyright information • Territories available • Term, renewal, termination, and transfer of the franchise • Policies regarding dispute resolution In addition, the document will typically have the following in attachments: • List of existing franchisees with contact information • List of terminated, not renewed, or cancelled franchisees with contact information • Financial Statements of the franchisor • Franchise Agreement • Table of Contents of the Operations Manual • Certificate of Franchisor signed by an officer of the company stating that all material facts have been provided and that the information provided is true • Receipt to be signed and dated by the franchisee acknowledging receipt of the Disclosure Document The disclosure document is only a summary of important information. Potential franchisees should study the franchise agreement in detail, as this is ultimately the document they’ll be signing. Legal and financial advisors, along with the franchisor, will all assist potential franchisees in reviewing the documents and in clarifying the obligations as a franchisee of the franchise system. Lawyers with franchising experience can review the Disclosure Document so that he or she can ensure that it meets all legal requirements. Potential franchisees should also seek

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FRANCHISE TUTORIAL advice from an accountant and the bank to ensure that they can financially afford the investment. The bank may also request a copy of the Disclosure Document so that they can make an informed lending decision.

Watch the Franchise Tutorials video on Disclosure Documents

STUDY QUESTIONS TUTORIAL 3

TUTORIAL 4

1. From a potential franchisee perspective, deposits benefit by: a) a llowing the franchisee to earn interest on deposits held by the franchise system. b) allowing the franchisee to opt out of paying royalties. c) allowing the franchisee to put a territory on hold while he/she does his/her due diligence, arranges financing, has documents reviewed by a lawyer, or finds an approved location.

1. Disclosure Documents are provided to potential franchisees: a) t o assist them in making informed business decisions and to learn more about the franchise opportunity. b) to return their personal financial history to the franchise system. c) as a marketing material to distribute to other potential franchisees.

2. Deposit Agreements: a) d efine payments made to financial institutions for financing start-up costs involved in franchising. b) define how and if the deposit will be returned, provide timelines, and typically address the issue of confidentiality. c) define the conditions for paying the franchise fee in monthly installments.

3. There are no provincial legislations regulating franchise deposits. True or False? a) True b) False

2. Franchise systems are currently required by law to provide Disclosure Documents in: a) Alberta,

Saskatchewan, and Ontario. b) Alberta, Ontario, and Nova Scotia. c) Alberta, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island.

3. The Disclosure Document will typically include a list of existing franchisees, with contact information. True or False? a) True b) False 4. The Disclosure Document is only a summary of important information, and isn’t a legal agreement. True or False? a) True b) False

4. Deposits are non-refundable. True or False? a) True b) False

Answer Key:

1) a 2) c 3) a 4) a

Answer Key:

1) c 2) b 3) b 4) b

94 Canadian Franchise Association www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

MARKETPLACE

Empower Your Franchise’s Future with 900Solutions At 900Solutions, we’re not just a technology provider – we’re your growth catalyst. As your dedicated one-stop technology partner, we understand the unique challenges that retail franchise businesses face in today’s competitive landscape. That’s why we offer a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to elevate your brand, engage customers and streamline operations.

CONTACT: Jack Choi Director of Business Development 1-833-900-2677 jack@900.ca

We are the voice of your business. Give every caller a professional response from a real person, 24/7. Capture leads, improve customer satisfaction, and grow your business all at once with a live call answering service. Get time off the phone without missing a single call with AnswerConnect.

CONTACT: Karen Booze, CFE Director of Business Development (800) 584-0234 franchisesales@answerconnect.com www.answerconnect.com/franchise

www.900.ca

BDO CANADA LLP People helping people achieve their dreams

“23 years, over 420 stores and still growing!”

BDO understands that the changing business landscape and shifting market trends means that traditional franchise business models may be jeopardized. Our experts help franchisors and franchisees devise plans to implement key business and financial strategies to deal with these issues. From compliance such as FDD reporting, domestic and international tax strategies and risk management, to cloud accounting, financing, M&A and strategic growth services, we can help you accomplish your goals.

205, 8915-51 Ave. Edmonton, Alberta , Canada T6E 5J3 Phone: (780) 440-6770 Web: www.boosterjuice.com E-mail: franchising@boosterjuice.com

Contact: Lyn Little, CPA, CA, Partner, National Franchise Leader Email: llittle@bdo.ca Phone: (905) 633-4942, (888) 236-2383 Web: www.bdo.ca

Booster Juice is Canada’s premium smoothie and juice chain!

As a leader of nutritious alternatives in the quick-serve industry, Booster Juice’s proprietary recipes are an instant hit among today’s active, health conscious consumers. Today, Booster Juice has expanded to bring smoothies, fresh-squeezed juices and delicious hot food items to active customers on the go. With over 23 years in the business, Booster Juice continues to grow with locations across Canada, and is on track to open 40 new stores in 2023!

Units Canada: 430 In Business Since: 1999 Franchising Since: 1999 Franchise Fee: $30K Initial Investment Required: $135K Turnkey costs: $365K-$380K Training: 2 weeks plus ongoing support Available Territories: Canada, International CFA Member Since: 2002

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MARKETPLACE

Boston Pizza International is proud to be Canada’s number one casual dining brand, serving communities from coast-to-coast since opening its first restaurant in Edmonton, Alberta in 1964.

Today, BPI operates in Canada, The United States and Mexico and has been recognized as a Platinum Member of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies and has been a Franchisees’ Choice Designation winner for eight consecutive years.

Boston Pizza offers guests four distinct experiences under one roof – a family-friendly casual dining restaurant and an energetic sports bar, cozy, full-service patios and a sophisticated Take-Out & Delivery platform. While we’re famous for our gourmet pizzas made with our signature Hand-pressed dough, our extensive menu satisfies every appetite with mouth-watering pasta dishes, and a wide variety of salads, entrées and desserts! The casual atmosphere makes Boston Pizza as fun for families as it is for solodining, teams and groups of all ages.

FRANCHISE WITH AN ESSENTIAL BUSINESS • A trusted brand – Nearly 700 locations worldwide and 35+ years’ experience franchising • A robust model – COBS Bread is built on providing exceptional product, friendly service and a welcoming environment for all customers • Community focused – All bakeries donate to hundreds of local schools, groups and charities across Canada • Authenticity – COBS Bread operates with honesty and transparency • No initial franchising fee for new bakeries • Flexible financing options Awards 2015 Recipient CFA Award of Excellence in Franchising, Silver Award Winner

With $1 billion in annual system-wide sales, Boston Pizza has more locations, serving more guests annually than any other casual dining concept in Canada. Each year, more than 40 million guests are served across more than 375 Canadian locations.

2010 & 2012 Recipient CFA Award of Excellence in Franchising, Bronze Award Winner

Contact us today to learn how you can become a part of Canada’s #1 Casual Dining Brand!

Contact the COBS Bread Franchising Team E franchise@cobsbread.com P 1 866 838 COBS (2627) W www.cobsbread.com/franchising

Bostonpizzafranchise.com franchising@bostonpizza.com

SEEKING DRIVEN, ENTREPRENEURIAL FRANCHISEES Driverseat is North America’s largest leisure and corporate transportation franchise network. We provide pre scheduled services like airport ground transportation, group charters to sporting events and wedding shuttles.

Our corporate services provide employee shuttles, microtransit and executive travel services, allowing you to establish relationships that result in recurring revenue.

What makes us different?

• Training and coaching tailored for each individual partner • Can be open and running in 8-10 weeks • Low investment - $65,000 • Proven business model

2011–2023 Recipient CFA Franchisees’ Choice Designation

Edo Japan has been in the business of serving Japanese-inspired food, made fresh and by hand with high-quality ingredients and Edo’s famous teriyaki sauce, for more than 40 years. Serving more than 10 million meals annually, our Canadian-owned and operated franchise is experiencing explosive growth and we are now accepting applications for multi-unit and single unit operators across the country. As one of the most popular and successful fast-casual restaurant franchises in Western Canada, prospective franchisees can look forward to high sales and an excellent return on investment.

Franchise Units in Canada: 180 Franchise Fee: $35K Investment Required: $550K-$650K Available Territories: BC, SK, MB, ON, Atlantic provinces In Business Since: 1979 CFA Member Since: 1995 www.edojapan.com/franchising

Contact Us

www.driverseatfranchise.com franchise@driverseatinc.com

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MARKETPLACE

Eggless Cake shop also offers the opportunity to own your own successful business by following a tested business model.

Franchising is a great way to open new doors and explore new avenues in business. We offer a unique franchising experience where our dedicated franchise managers personally guides you through the process, offering assistance every step of the way.

Franchise Fee: $30,000 Franchise Units Canada: 2 Investment Required: $350,000 In Business Since: 2011 https://egglesscakeshop.ca/

Fat Bastard Burrito: the ultimate burrito experience!

Fat Bastard Burrito – a 100% Canadian company - is growing rapidly, with 30 stores opening in the next 12 months. Excellent opportunities are now available in Ontario, Atlantic Canada, Alberta, and BC. Fat Bastard Burrito features a diverse menu made from fresh ingredients, including burritos, bowls, quesadillas, curated tacos, and much more! We offer an efficient entry point combined with a compact and highly effective store footprint. Are you looking for a turnkey investment with dedicated support? Are you obsessed with delivering amazing dining experiences? Contact us today.

Franchise units in Canada: 80 In business since: 2009 Franchising since: 2012 Franchise fee: $25K Start-up capital required: $150K+ Investment required: $400K-$475K Training: Yes Available territories: All of Canada CFA member since: 2013 fatbastardburrito.ca/franchising

We are an eight-partner accounting firm offering specialized services in taxation, accounting, business advisory, forensic accounting, valuations and are members of MGI Worldwide. We have grown significantly and have 30 employees that provide expert advice to public, private and not-for-profit organizations, as well as individuals and families. Our expertise spans a broad range of industries, including manufacturing, distribution, construction, real estate development and service providers.

(905) 738-5758 info@fazzaripartners.com www.fazzaripartners.com

Just Cuts is the largest hairdressing company in the southern hemisphere, and we’re coming to Canada. When you join the Just Cuts franchise network, you enjoy the benefits of running your own business combined with the backing of a globally recognized brand.

Based on a no appointments, just walk in system, Just Cuts offers affordable Style Cuts for the whole family and performs over 100,000 weekly in Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan and the UK. The Just Cuts franchising family currently stands at over 230 businesses and employs over 3,500 Stylists.

With over three decades of small business success in different global markets, the Just Cuts franchise model offers you a proven pathway to small business success. Our fixed price model just works - regardless of the economy, hair never stops growing, and high-quality haircuts at great prices positions our salons a cut above the rest.

You don’t need any hairdressing industry experience to own a successful Just Cuts salon, and over half of our Franchise Owners own more than one.

Contact us today: David Mathie -Head of Franchising E: davidm@justcuts.com P: 61 448 063 235 W: https://franchising.justcuts.com/franchising-internationally-form

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70+ years in business, approximately 27,000+ international restaurants in over 145 countries and territories and more than $23 billion in yearly sales. KFC is an international icon and holds the crown as the world’s undisputed fried chicken leader. We are looking for enthusiastic, capable, committed partners to join Colonel Sanders Canadian family with priority focus on Quebec, British Columbia, Toronto and all smalltown markets nationwide.

If you are looking for your next investment, KFC Canada wants to hear from you. Join our network of 630+ restaurants in all provinces & territories.

Franchise Units: 630 Other: 27,000 Start Up Capital Required is: $450k + (single unit operator)/ $700k+ (Multi-unit operator) Training: 8 Weeks initial + ongoing modules Available Territories: Quebec, British Columbia, Toronto and all smalltown markets nationwide

At KPMG Private Enterprise™, we are proud to support emerging and established entrepreneurs, franchise business-owners, private companies and family businesses. We offer tax, audit and assurance, advisory and law services to businesses of all sizes across Canada and around the world.

Whether you are looking to grow, expand internationally, strengthen, or exit your business, we understand what it takes to be successful at each stage.

We’re here to help make your business even better.

Contact us to learn more: kpmg.com/ca/privateenterprise

Contact: Zaid Kharouba: Franchise Development Manager Phone: (416) 664-5310 Email: zaid.kharouba@yum.com Web: www.kfc.ca/franchise

Ledgers Franchise owners provide a comprehensive suite of services to small businesses, their owners and the general public.

With services ranging from accounting and bookkeeping to personal and corporate income tax preparation, Ledgers is the one-stop source for all of the financial aspects of running a small business.

Franchise Units Canada: 47 Corporate Units Canada: 1 Franchise Fee: $25K Investment Required: $40K Available Territories: US, All of Canada www.ledgers.com

Little Yogis is a leading mobile yoga & mindfulness enrichment program for kids. Our tagline is “Positivity & Movement for Busy Minds” as we aim to improve physical, mental, and emotional health through our curriculum. Our mission is to make yoga & mindfulness practices accessible to children globally. We provide yoga, mental health, and wellness workshops for everyone within your community including childcares, schools, and families.

We take learning seriously. Our curriculum was developed by certified teachers and yoga professionals. We are evidence based and meet AAP milestones and early education standards. Not only that, but we are also the industry leader in the youth wellness enrichment space, have won numerous awards and have been featured by prominent media outlets. Our brand stands out.

As a franchisee, you will be given all the tools to duplicate our success: • Training • Operations Systems • Use of trademarks • Proprietary curriculum • Marketing support • Custom supplies • And coaching to help you succeed as a business owner Join our community of passionate business owners who are making a difference in the lives of children every single day.

Own a mobile kids yoga franchise Learn more at: www.littleyogisacademy.com/franchise

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After over forty years of providing easy-to-prepare, top quality foods, M&M Food Market has become a trusted and iconic Canadian brand that customers have come to rely on for a uniquely convenient and welcoming shopping environment.

Canadians were looking for help to serve real food that fit with the reality of their busy lives when eating at home has never been more prevalent. We offer innovative products for those looking for new and different meal solutions including more than 35 gluten free products spanning every category, our customers can trust they’ll find something that suits their dietary needs.

The initiatives that we implemented during our recent brand transformation such as our new store design, food innovation, digital marketing and eCommerce (including in-store, curb-side pick up and delivery) along with our industry-leading loyalty program have put M&M Food Market in a position to be able to continue to serve our loyal customer base when they need us the most. For YOU as our newest Partner we offer a comprehensive training program, ongoing operational support along with Head Office support to help ease the transition into business ownership. All this and we are GROWING! We have new store opportunities available across Canada. Reach out today to find out about opportunities near you!

For more information, visit our website at www.mmfoodmarket.com/en/franchising or call us at 1-800-461-0171.

Maverick’s Donuts began operations in 2016 with one small location in the heart of central Ottawa, spending the first 4 years refining its recipes over and over, and building a name in Ottawa for being the one true “Maverick” of the donut world. When the pandemic hit in 2020, Maverick’s opened its first suburban location in Ottawa’s west end with huge success. Our franchise program began in 2021 and we have already opened or sold 40 locations in 4 provinces.

Our donut shops offer 50+ unique flavours throughout the year, and we cater to weddings, corporate events, birthdays, and other special events. Freshly roasted coffee and soft-serve ice cream round out our amazing products.

As Maverick’s Donuts continues its Canada-wide expansion, we are looking for dedicated, energetic people who want to own and operate and exciting brand that appeals to people of all ages and all cultures. Full training and support is provided. Bank financing programs available.

Welcome to the largest Canadian-owned quick serve chicken restaurant and one of the fastest-growing franchises in the country.

Mary Brown’s Chicken continues to expand across Canada with over 240+ stores now open. Projections are to reach 300 locations by the end of 2023. It’s a growth plan we’d love you to be part of!

Our food is exceptional and our numbers are impressive. In the last year alone, we experienced a remarkable 20% System Sales Growth and over 13% increase in Average Unit Count.

Our genuine hospitality, 100% Canadian heritage and Crave Delicious menu keep our Guests coming back again and again.

Our Chicken is fresh Canada Grade A, hand cut and hand breaded in-store. Our Taters are also handcrafted in-store from farm fresh Canadian potatoes. Even our Coleslaw is made fresh in-store! Our approach is time-proven, with 50+ years of success dating back to 1969.

Add to that our comprehensive Franchisee support including Training, Operations, Financing and Marketing and you’ll see that Mary Brown’s is an exciting opportunity that you don’t want to miss.

Email franchising@marybrowns.com and get started today. marybrownsfranchising.com

Mobile Senior Shop offers stylish, comfortable, and long-lasting clothing for seniors. Through our online store and on-site popups in senior living communities, Mobile Senior Shop simplifies the shopping experience so that seniors have a fun and social environment to access clothing made for them. We’re looking for passionate Franchisees who are ready to grow alongside us and bring Mobile Senior Shop to more communities in new markets.

Corporate Units Canada: 1 Franchise Fee: $30K Investment Required: $50-$75K In Business Since: 2015 Available Territories: All of Canada CFA Member Since: 2022 Website: mobileseniorshop.com

www.mavericksdonuts.com/franchise

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Benefit from over 40 years of our brands’ collective experience delivering training and systems for digitally savvy marketing, cutting edge technology and easy to follow operations. Gain the foundation to begin your journey toward successful business ownership and a more flexible lifestyle.

Discover which of our franchise brands is right for you.

Visit: go.nbly.com/CFA • Call today: 866-687-1106

We provide world-class support before you even make your first pita wrap—and well beyond. Our franchise support system ensures that you’re set up for success.

The OPA! experience combines fresh Mediterranean cuisine with the friendly customer service we’ve become known for. We are Canada’s most loved quick-service Greek restaurant and when you’re welcomed into OPA!, you know exactly what you’re going to get, quality ingredients packed with flavour, prepared and cooked fresh. We serve over 50 Million Customers every year and every single day, we create good feelings through good food at a great value that keeps our customers coming back. That’s The Power of Good Food....OPA! For more information, contact: Sergio Terrazas, Director Franchise Development & Leasing (866) 672-3566 ext. 233, (403) 984-9745 sterrazas@opasouvlaki.ca www.opasouvlaki.ca/franchise

Celebrating Forty Years of Helping Canadian Students Succeed Oxford Learning® is passionate about our mission to help children achieve their highest potential. We achieve this mission using a cognitive learning model for all programs, which helps students develop new and better pathways to learning.

Unlike traditional tutoring, a cognitive approach leads to lasting educational changes. This shift in the approach to tutoring makes Oxford Learning stand apart from other supplemental education options, leading to academic achievement for students, satisfaction for parents, and success for franchisees.

Founded in 1984, we are an award-winning franchise system with 130 locations across Canada.

Oxford Learning® celebrates multiple CFA awards, including: · Franchisees’ Choice Designation, 6-Year Designee (2018 - 2023) · Awards of Excellence Gold (2021); Silver (2022) · Franchisee of the Year 2020 (Gold); 2022 (Bronze) · Lifetime Achievement (2020) for Oxford Learning’s founder A background in education is not a prerequisite—our unique cognitive learning programs, proprietary curriculum, and comprehensive training combined with your drive to succeed are the only requirements!

Join the leaders in Canadian supplemental education with 40 years of helping students.

Explore the Oxford Learning opportunity today!

1-888-559-2212 franchise@oxfordlearning.com

Oxygen Yoga & Fitness’ systems take the complexities out of delivering a dynamic yoga & fitness program and give your studio an edge.

• Exclusive Yoga Fitness Fusion Programming • Methodized Instructor Training • State of the art FAR Infrared Heat • Network of Owners • Sales, Marketing, Software & Operations Support • 200 HR Yoga Teacher Training Accredited by Yoga Alliance Franchise Fee: $48,500 Startup Capital Required: $250K-$350K Available Territories: Various globally Training: Yes Franchise Units Canada: 110 In Business Since: 2011 CFA Member Since: 2014 If you are ready for health and wealth, it is time for you to put your passion to work. Become our next Franchisee and fill out the application franchise.oxygenyogaandfitness.com

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BECOME A DIFFERENCE MAKER – JOIN OUR TEAM • Paul Davis Restoration provides emergency mitigation, construction and contents cleaning services to homes and businesses affected by water, fire, wind and environmental damage • Leader in the $6 Billion Canadian Property Restoration industry for over 30 years • Powerful, recognizable brand supported by national television advertising campaign, a proven franchise system and an experienced management team • As an ESSENTIAL business, that is both COVID-proof and recession-resistant • Over 60 locally owned and operated franchises across 10 Canadian provinces and over 300 across North America • Our Vision: To provide extraordinary care while serving people in their time of need For franchise information contact: Dan Hopkins, Direct of Franchise Development 416-299-8890 ext 118 Daniel.hopkins@pauldavis.com

The Pizza Nova story began in 1963 when a young Italian family opened the very first Pizza Nova restaurant. Still family-owned, we have helped hundreds of families open and operate our 145+ locations across Ontario and specialize in hand-tossed, Artisan-style pizzas that are complemented by an extensive menu of proven favourites.

Our 60+ years of success continues as a direct result of our uncompromising commitment to providing quality ingredients and product innovation. In 2015 we became the first Canadian pizza company to introduce pepperoni sourced from beef and pork raised without the use of antibiotics or added hormones. We have since expanded our ‘Raised Without Antibiotics’ profile to include bacon, chicken wings, chicken pollini, grilled chicken, and smoked ham. In 2021, we introduced the first pea protein-based pepperoni as a plant-based alternative to our diverse menu, as well as plant-based chick’n bites, thus further expanding our reach to include vegans, vegetarians and flexitarians alike.

We provide comprehensive training, easy ordering from our HAACP approved commissary, location identification & design, operations support and innovative marketing initiatives that bring customers through your door.

Pizza Nova is the Official Pizza of the Toronto Blue Jays™, Toronto International Film Festival, and the CNE. For more information on Franchise Opportunities please contact Meraj Jamal, Franchise Development Manager Phone: 416-439-0051 ext. 1016 Email: meraj@pizzanova.com

Our business model is all about renting individual suites to professionals in the health, wellness and beauty industry. It’s not a beauty business for the franchisee though, but rather a property management and real estate opportunity with some really great returns. By partnering with us, you’ll be creating passive income in an absentee role. Plus, you don’t have to worry about inventory or employees to manage.

We also provide all the site selection assistance, building design, construction management, leasing, and training you need to make your investment a success. And with our commitment to never close a location, you can rest easy knowing your investment is secure.

• HEALTH, WELLNESS & BEAUTY IN ONE RETAIL LOCATION • 20-40 INDIVIDUAL SUITES RENTED ON A MONTHLY BASIS • PREDICTABLE RECURRING REVENUE • ABSENTEE OWNERSHIP MODEL Lesley Hawks, Director Global Development lkhawks@gmail.com or +1 562-760-1611 phenixsalonsuitesfranchising.com

Grab Your Slice of Life!

Pizza Pizza began in December 1967 in a 300 square foot store in Toronto at the corner of Wellesley and Parliament Street. Since then we became the biggest pizza chain in the country.

Our success stems from our customer focus. Our commitments to freshness, quality, and innovation have led us to the top of the pile in the pizza industry. Pizza Pizza delivers on its goals time and time again as we strive to make the best pizzas around at reasonable prices. Moving forward, we will continue to hold our leading position through community involvement and environmental stewardship.

Consider what Canada’s most successful pizza chain has to offer you: • A commitment to quality, • Comprehensive training freshness, customer • Site selection, lease satisfaction and innovation negotiation and professional • Superior marketing and architectural design promotional support • Knowledgeable support staff • State-of-the-art technology • Administrative systems • Ongoing professional • We supply the ingredients development • Be your own boss!

Franchising information: franchisinginfo@pizzapizza.ca www.pizzapizza.ca/franchising

TORONTO BLUE JAYS™ bird head design and all related marks and designs are trademarks and / or copyright of Rogers Blue Jays Baseball partnership, used under licence.

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Established in 2016, Pokerrito is a rich and bold brand built on experience and maturity, with an entrenched understanding of the vast opportunities within North America. The worldwide surge in poke’s popularity, particularly the Pan-Asian style, is undeniable and continues to meet an ever-growing demand. This growth is aligned to a number of consumer trends, including a focus on enhanced healthy menus, engagement with plant-based diets, speed of service, and social media – all in partnership with the convenience of online ordering and home delivery.

School of Rock is the largest music school franchise in the United States, and we’ve expanded to 15 countries across the globe in 25 years of operation. We help aspiring musicians master skills, unleash creativity and develop tools they need to thrive in life with our patented, performance-based curriculum. School of Rock lets you indulge your love of music while improving people’s lives with the power of Rock n’ Roll. So, make music your business and be directly responsible for your future. Open your own School of Rock and experience our unique franchising approach.

Over the past few years there has been a global explosion of health-focused concepts, both dine-in and quick service, offering an expanse of menu choices designed to seduce the most discerning diner. This evolution comes in response to changing urban lifestyles, shifts in consumer economic habits, and demands for healthier food options. Canada is not isolated from these influences, and quick-service, healthy-focused restaurants are predicting substantial growth over the next decade. Consumers are welcoming casual dining brands like Pokerrito that provide an immersive experience, emphasize innovative Pan-Asian-style poke, and exhibit a seamless customer experience.

SCHOOLOFROCK.COM/CFA

pokerrito.com/franchise or franchise@pokerrito.com

We’re changing the way the world works out right now with our phenomenally popular workout method, combined with a highly systemized and streamlined business model that delivers incredible results for both our members and franchisees. Offering a completely new and unique workout experience with certified Studio Pilates® instructors setting the room ablaze with energy and all set to a beat-driven soundtrack. Studio Pilates® is successproven across the globe but don’t just take our word for it, hear directly from one of our franchisees.

FRANCHISEE BENEFITS INCLUDE: • High investment return • Global brand experiencing rapid growth across 5 countries • Incredibly supportive team of specialists to guide you every step of the way right from the beginning of selecting your site through to sales, marketing and more • Low fit out cost for your studio build • Complete training and ongoing education for your instructors with our Studio Pilates International Training Academy, providing you with expert instructors ready to work in your business • Reassurance in knowing we’ve NEVER had a Studio Pilates studio fail • Highly scalable business with over 50% of franchisees owning 2+ studios joinus@studiopilates.com | +61 431 178 272 studiopilates.com

Subway, one of the largest restaurant brands, has a bold vision for the future. There’s so much good news to share with growing, multi-unit franchisees: world-class leadership team, new menu options at a compelling value, and competitive restaurant concepts. Learn how we’re Building A Better Subway!

Franchise Fee: $15,000.00 Franchise Units Canada: nearly 3,000 Investment Required: $214,700-$458,500 Available Territories: All of Canada CFA Member Since: 1987 Website: SubwayFranchise.com

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Summit property group is dedicated to providing essential maintenance and management services for the public sector, institutional, commercial, and industrial property owners, managers and government facility operators.

Summit Property Group was founded on the pursuit of verifiable value and new customer service standard in the facility maintenance and landscape management industry. We push the boundaries and challenge both clients and competitors, while disrupting the accepted norms of our industry.

From 20 years of exceptional growth across Provincial lines and developing strategic relationships with Government service providers, we remain clearly focused on expanding our Network through national strength, local commitment, and the power of the Franchisee Partnership Network. Our vision is to be the number one national organization of dedicated local owner operators, supported by the expertise of Summit Property Group. https://summitpropertygroup.ca

Join The UPS Store franchise network and count on the support from our experienced Home Office and in-field teams to get you to your grand opening and beyond. Many offer printing or shipping services, but our dedication to innovation and convenience are what keep The UPS Store at the top of our industry. With over 370 franchise locations across Canada (and continuing to grow), we have a proven track record of success!

As a franchisee you will enjoy an established system to get your business started off on the right track; in-depth training programs and ongoing support to make sure you continue to succeed; and an internationally recognized and award-winning brand to help you build instant credibility in your community. The UPS Store is there at every stage of your franchising journey. Proud to have been designated as an Essential Business at a time Canadians needed us most.

Visit us at theupsstore.ca. We Print, Ship & More!

Locations, North America: Over 5000 Locations in Canada: Over 370 Minimum cash investment: $100,000 Total cash investment: $199,250 to $218,500 plus working capital.

For more information on The UPS Store opportunity, call 1‐888-875-0007 or visit www.theupsstore.ca.

WingsUp! specializes in takeout, delivery and catering of 100% fresh chicken wings & bites, along with appetizers, sandwiches, sides and greens. Since 1988, we’ve been committed to using the highest quality fresh, never frozen chicken without any fillers.

We invite you to join the WingsUp! family with unparalleled operational support right from site selection, training, and ongoing marketing support, continuing forward until every order finds its way into the guest’s hands.

Franchise units in Canada: 34 In business since: 1988 Franchising since: 1996 Franchise fee: $34.5K Start-up capital required: $140K-160K Investment required: $420K Training: Yes Available territories: AB, ON, BC CFA member since: 2010

FRANCHISE CANADA 116-5399 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M9C 5K6 Web: FranchiseCanada.Online Email: editor@cfa.ca Contact: Lauren Huneault, Editor Franchise Canada is a complete multi-channel media outlet, committed to delivering the best content to help prospective franchisees achieve their dreams and create their franchise futures. Franchise Canada properties include the magazine, print directory, website, tradeshows, podcast, videos, e-newsletter, e-blasts, and social media. Through all of these channels, Franchise Canada reaches an audience of over 750,000 per year.

For advertising information, contact Radhika Karve at rkarve@cfa.ca.

In Business Since: 2000

Contact us Franchise@wingsup.com (289) 834-2027 https://www.wingsupfranchise.com

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WHAT’S NEXT

DON’T MISS OUR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 ISSUE! The Excellence in Franchising Issue The Canadian Franchise Association’s (CFA) annual National Convention is a celebration of the success of franchising across the country. The celebration culminates in the marquee event, an awards gala celebrating the best of franchising in that year.

In the November/December 2023 issue of Franchise Canada, we celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our franchise members and their franchisees. In this issue, we showcase the CFA Award winners, complete with insightful interviews with our Awards of Excellence Grand Prize winners and profiles of the Franchisee of the Year award winners.

Look for your next franchise opportunity with one of the celebrated brands featured in the upcoming November/December issue of Franchise Canada, where you’ll find information about these winners and more, including franchisee success stories and advice from respected franchise professionals across Canada.

WATCH OUT FOR THESE EXCITING FEATURES IN OUR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 ISSUE:* FRANCHISEES OF THE YEAR: The CFA Awards shine a spotlight on the best and brightest individuals in systems across our franchise community.

The range of franchise excellence isn’t bound to one model or industry; this year’s winners are in categories such as education and food service, while others offer non-traditional B2B services. The CFA is proud to showcase all of the winners.

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES FRANCHISES: On the move again?

Between commutes, road trips, and drop-offs and pickups, Canadian cars need maintenance and care.

These automotive franchises keep clients riding in style.

KIDS AND FAMILY SERVICES: Services for kids and families provide everything from supplemental education to thrilling extracurricular activities. From athletics to music lessons and hair care, these brands provide important experiences while being essential members of their communities.

BUSINESS PLANNING AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT BASICS: When it comes to starting a franchise journey, early business planning can increase your chances for success.

With these guidelines and best practices, you can find the right franchise for your lifestyle and take the guesswork out of starting your thriving business.

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PLUS A SPECIAL FRANCHISE FOCUS ON BEAUTY, HEALTH, AND FITNESS FRANCHISES! IN EVERY ISSUE: • Industry News • Show Me the Money • Franchise Tutorials • Leadership Profile • Giving Back • Home-Grown & Locally Owned • Ask the Experts • Day in the Life • The First Year • Next Generation in Franchising *Editorial subject to change

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX 900Solutions. . ................................................14-15 www.900.ca

Just Cuts.. .................................................................. 28 https://franchising.justcuts.com/ franchising-internationally-form

Paul Davis Restoration.................................... ................................... 35, Outside Back Cover www.pauldavisbusiness.ca

KFC.................................................................................... 11 www.KFC.CA/Franchise

Phenix Salon Suites. . ....................................... 37 www.phenixsalonsuitesfranchise.com

BDO................................................................................. 39 www.bdo.ca

KPMG Private Enterprise™.. .................... 57 kpmg.com/ca/privateenterprise

Pizza Nova.............................................................. 60 www.pizzanova.ca

Booster Juice...................................................... 40 boosterjuice.com/franchiseopportunities

Ledgers. . ..................................................................... 32 www.ledgers.com

Pizza Pizza................................................................ 19 www.pizzapizza.ca/franchising

Little Yogis............................................................... 75 littleyogisacademy.com/franchise

Pokerrito. . .................................................................. 82 www.pokerrito.com/franchise

M&M Food Market.. .............................................3 www.mmfoodmarket.com

School of Rock.................................................... 46 www.schoolofrock.com/cfa

Mary Brown’s Chicken................................ 68 www.marybrownsfranchising.com

Studio Pilates®..................................................... 31 www.studiopilates.com

Edo Japan.. .............................................................. 72 franchising.edojapan.com

Maverick’s Donuts................................................ ................................................. Inside Front Cover Maverick’s Donuts

Subway....................................................................... 58 www.SubwayFranchise.com

Eggless Cake Shop............................................ 9 www.egglesscakeshop.ca

Mobile Senior Shop........................................ 29 www.mobileseniorshop.com

Fat Bastard Burrito....................................... 68 fatbastardburrito.ca/franchising

Neighbourly........................................................... 24 go.nbly.com/CFA

Fatburger Canada.................................. 12-13 www.fatburgercanada.com

OPA! . . .............................................................................. 61 www.opasouvlaki.ca/franchise

Fazzari + Partners LLP.. .............................. 20 www.fazzaripartners.com

Oxford Learning............................................... 64 franchise.oxfordlearning.com

International Franchise Association ............................................................................................. 76 www.franchise.org

Oxygen Yoga & Fitness.............................. 34 franchise.oxygenyogaandfitness.com

AnswerConnect.. ............................................... 36 www.answerconnect.com/ca/ franchise

Boston Pizza.............................................................. 7 www.bostonpizzafranchise.com COBS Bread........................................................... 63 cobsbread.com/franchising Driverseat................................................................. 17 www.driverseatinc.com/franchise

Summit Group..................................................... 79 www.summitpropertygroup.ca The UPS Store............ Inside Back Cover www.theupsstore.ca WingsUp! .................................................................. 18 www.wingsupfranchise.com

ASK A LEGAL EXPERT

(continued from page 91) 8. Obligations under the law Each provincial franchise legislation requires that the franchise transaction and relationship between the franchisor and franchisee be governed by a duty of fair dealing. This means that you will have a statutory obligation to act in good faith towards the franchisor and in a commercially reasonable manner.

You will also be required to comply with relevant legislation that imposes specific standards and requirements such as employment legislation, work health and safety legislation, and food safety legislation. You should ensure that you are fully aware of all current legal requirements

and obligations that you must adhere to, based on the specific franchise you plan to operate.

A franchise agreement will outline within its terms what obligations and rights you have. The fulfillment of all obligations under a franchise agreement is essential to the success of your franchise relationship and the franchise. It’s important that you understand the terms you’re agreeing to before signing a franchise agreement.

All potential franchisees should seek the assistance of a legal professional to guide them through the franchise agreement and help them understand their rights and obligations upon signing.

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Virtual Reality, Actual Giving

VR franchise Ctrl V supports everyone from children to pets to seniors through its charitable initiatives BY KAREN STEVENS SOME BUSINESSES FOCUS solely on the bottom line, but the virtual reality (VR) franchise Ctrl V stands out as a system that combines its entrepreneurial success with a commitment to making a positive impact in the community. Ctrl V demonstrates how giving back to society can be a key part of a thriving franchise model.

The growing franchise system offers myriad ways for franchisees to contribute to their communities.

The system’s biggest initiative is the Extra Life campaign, a Canada- and U.S.-wide event that raises money for the Children’s Miracle Network of Hospitals. Thousands of people—on corporate teams and as individuals—raise funds and then participate in a 24-hour games marathon. The donations go towards treatments, medical equipment, and health care services for children.

“We raise tens of thousands of dollars for the hospital, and each franchisee gets to choose the local Children’s Miracle Network hospital that the money goes to,” explains Robert Bruski, Ctrl V’s CEO. Throughout the year, franchisees are encouraged to participate in other community ventures, such as the Save Me Dog Rescue event, where local rescues can bring their dogs that are up for adoption to the store. Additionally, franchisees can facilitate food drives around Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Ctrl V also works with seniors and local nursing homes on a regular basis. “Seniors love VR,” explains Bruski. “And a lot of them don’t know about it, or they think VR is futuristic and isn’t consumer-ready.”

Franchisees pack up the VR stations and set them up in the communal spaces at retirement homes.

“Whether they want to shoot robots, swim with whales, hang out in the desert, or visit the dinosaurs, they get to experience these things in virtual reality,” says Bruski. Furthermore, “We’re constantly working with schools, charitable organizations, and seniors’ homes at discounted rates to get all of these people in to do VR.” And that’s not all—the brand also supports local Rotary Clubs with the various charitable events they organize. Also, according to Bruski, the autism community is near Ctrl V’s heart. “We’re regularly working with organizations like KidsAbility and people with autism to help them try VR.” Within the community, franchisees are encouraged to share gift cards for VR experiences with the people they meet. “Whether getting an oil change or out at a restaurant, we give people the opportunity to come in and experience VR, whether they’re able to afford it or not,” says Bruski.

As Bruski explains, new businesses need the support of the local community. “The local community is important to us, so we want to contribute to it to build it up and help them solve some of the problems they may have because we know without them we wouldn’t have a business,” he says.

Ctrl V franchisees don’t have to participate in the brand’s charitable efforts to be a franchise owner.

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“They’re not required to do it, but they all participate in it because they understand the value that it brings to the community and to the business,” says Bruski. He notes that if there’s something local and unique to their city that franchisees want to participate in, they usually get the go-ahead from head office.

The number one way that franchisees raise awareness for these charitable efforts is by word of mouth. “We’re always talking about these things, whether we’re bringing it up right at the point of sale or whether we’re just out with family and friends and we bring it up casually to servers,” Bruski says.

Marketing is also a big way they get the word out, he explains. The franchise uses a combination of paid marketing and free grassroots marketing to raise awareness about these events. The partner organizations also help with promotion. For example, hospitals from the Children’s Miracle Network will raise awareness through their marketing channels.

Going forward, Bruski says Ctrl V will continue with its charitable initiatives. “We’re going to make Extra Life a bigger event and focus it around some other sort of milestones or cornerstone things that are happening to really try to raise the money for these hospitals,” he says.

“We’re a company that’s going to do as much as we can from a charitable or social justice standpoint. So as we go into the future, nothing’s off the table.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca