Franchise Canada July/August 2026

LEARN MORE ON PAGE 12-13

SEE OUR AD ON THE NEXT PAGE

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT MADSCIENCE.ORG/OPPORTUNITIES JULY | AUGUST 2026

The Wide World of STEM Learning Mad Science is bringing the power of experiential learning to kids around the globe

SPARK THE NEXT GENERATION OF INNOVATORS. Join the world’s leading STEM enrichment franchise and build a business that makes a real difference in your community.

AT A GLANCE Founded

1985, Montreal QC

WHY MAD SCIENCE?

Global Locations

✓ 40 years of proven STEM enrichment — no science background needed

150+ in 20+ Countries

✓ No retail space required — you go to schools & communities ✓ Year-round revenue: after-school, camps, parties & events ✓ Comprehensive training, LMS & ongoing franchise support ✓ Proud NASA partner for 20+ years

Franchising Since

1995

Investment Range

$132K – $190K CDN

Our bread and butter is extracurricular programs — which account for about 80% of our business. Every franchise is tailored to its community.

— Karim Kezila, Mad Science Franchise Owner, Montreal & Ottawa

Franchise Opportunities Available Across Canada madscience.org/opportunities · 1-833-204-6777

Inspiring the next generation — one experiment at a time.

LEARN MORE ON PAGE 18-19

SEE OUR AD ON THE NEXT PAGE

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT IMAGINEARTSACADEMY.COM/FRANCHISING JULY | AUGUST 2026

THE ART OF FRANCHISE SUCCESS

Imagine Arts Academy is creating the next generation of creative thinkers—and a fulfilling path for business owners.

CREATIVITY

IS THE SKILL OF THE FUTURE.

BUILD A BUSINESS AROUND IT.

Join Imagine Arts Academy — the art enrichment franchise built for the way children learn today, backed by 40+ years of franchise expertise.

Enrichment programs for children ages 5–12

AT A GLANCE Founded

2016, Montreal QC Locations

20+ Across North America Franchising Since

2019

Creativity

Empathy

Innovation

Backed by

Mad Science Group

WHY IMAGINE ARTS ACADEMY?

✓ No art or education background required ✓ Emerging brand — real whitespace in the Canadian market ✓ No retail space: programming delivered into schools & communities ✓ After-school programs, camps, birthday parties & workshops

Creativity isn’t extracurricular — it’s foundational. Imagine Arts Academy develops the skills children will need most: creativity, communication, empathy, and confidence.

— The Imagine Arts Academy Mission

Global Awareness

Confidence

Franchise Opportunities Available Across Canada imagineartsacademy.com/franchising 1-833-204-6777

AWARD-WINNING FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES

KIDS EDUCATION FRANCHISES

BEAUTY AND SPA SERVICES ACROSS CANADA JULY | AUGUST 2026

A Canadian Franchise Association Publication / FranchiseCanada.Online

Fabulous Franchisees AN OPTION FOR EVERYBODY

POWER YOUR FRANCHISE SEARCH WITH

Subscribe for FREE at FranchiseCanada.Online

AWA R D ISSUE S

Meet th e 202 Winners 6 !

YOUR GUIDE TO FINDING YOUR FRANCHISE FIT

Ontario-based Carmen Siciliano has been a Paul Davis franchisee for 26 years.

Jonathan Enright (left) and Karley David accepted the award on behalf of the Enright family, who own 15 Boston Pizza locations across Manitoba.

JOIN CANADA’S LARGEST FROZEN FOOD RETAILER

Opportunities available across Canada!

CONTENTS FRANCHISE

CANADA

JULY/AUGUST 2026

21

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.

Get Started Today!

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

LookforaFranchise.ca

COVER STORY

37

Fabulous Franchisees A look into the hard work and dedication behind The 2026 Franchisee of the Year award winners

41

21

FEATURES

29

Grand Prize Brands These award-winning franchise brands are showing off their grand efforts in franchisee training and support

33

B2B Goes for the Gold Business-to-business brands exemplifying franchisee satisfaction

4 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Gold-Star Education Support for their franchisees and the children they impact every day has earned these brands an Award of Excellence Recognizing Stellar Systems: The Franchisees’ Choice Designation An in-depth look at the CFA’s Franchisees’ Choice Designation and what it represents

44

A Franchise Glow Up Beauty and spa services across Canada

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

DEPARTMENTS

49

MULTI-GEN MAGIC Spick and Spanning Generations Merry Maids franchisee Leslie Johnson has built a family business across generations

52

LEADERSHIP PROFILE Family Recipe Osmow’s Shawarma’s success is built on fresh food, bold flavours, and strong family roots

55

DAY IN A LIFE A Match Made in Staffing How husband-and-wife duo, Chris Vandenbosch and Jennifer Bleau, traded their corporate government roles for franchise success

58

FIRST YEAR A World of Pawsibility From employee to manager to franchise owner, Joe Krawchuk’s found his place with Pet Valu

61

64

GIVING BACK Serving Canadians ServiceMaster Canada is giving back to local communities, and franchisees are at the forefront

67

SHOW ME THE MONEY 4 Franchises for $500K+

SEASON 9 IS NOW AVAILABLE!

71

FRANCHISE TUTORIAL Tutorials 13 & 14 This issue: • Intro to Insurance • Intro to Recruitment

COLUMNS

6 PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE 10 CFA CODE OF ETHICS 14 INDUSTRY NEWS 68 ASK THE EXPERTS 75 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX 74 FRANCHISE ROUNDUP

ICONIC BRAND The Whole Package The UPS Store Canada and its president David Druker have both become key players in the Canadian franchising industry

LISTEN & LEARN

Tune in to the Franchise Canada Chats Podcast!

Available on Google Play, iTunes, SoundCloud, and Spotify

FranchiseCanadaChats.ca www.youtube.com/ @CanadianFranchiseAssociation

Franchise Canada

July | August 2026

5

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

H

CHEERS TO THE AWARDS WINNERS!

ow do you measure success? Every business owner knows that behind each win, there’s a lot of hard work. Success is most often the result of planning, preparation, and careful execution.

But we also know that it’s worth it! Every day, tens of thousands of small business owners across Canada are living out their dream of going into business for themselves and creating the life they’ve always wanted.

The Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) Awards Program was founded to recognize the hard work of those small business owners and the franchisors who helped create the pathway for them to own their own business.

In this special Excellence in Franchising issue, the Franchise Canada team highlights the winners of the 2026 CFA Awards—showcasing the passion and dedication that goes into success.

In this issue’s cover feature, you’ll find the 2026 Franchisee of the Year Award winners (page 21), who share their personal journeys into business ownership and how their franchise system set them up to succeed. I know you’ll find their stories inspiring!

You’ll also learn about the Awards of Excellence Grand Prize winners, Paul Davis Restoration and Oxford Learning Centres (page 29), and find out what makes these winning systems so special. Our Awards of Excellence Gold finalists also share their stories in features on two growing industries, B2B Services (page 33) and childhood education (page 37).

If you’re wondering how the Awards of Excellence and Franchisees’ Choice Designation Awards are judged, turn to page 41. There, Geoff Thacker of research specialists The Portage Group gives a behind-the-scenes peek at the process that determines the franchises selected based on the greatest marker of success for any system: franchisee satisfaction.

As with any issue of Franchise Canada, you’ll also find success stories from business owners like you, who’ve taken steps along their franchise journey. On page 55, Chris Vandenbosch shares what a day in the life of an Express Employment Professionals franchisee is like— and what made him swap his government career for small business ownership. On page 49, you’ll learn about a multigenerational group of women finding success through their Merry Maids franchises, and on page 58, franchisee Joe Krawchuk shares what it was like going through the

first year as the owner of a Pet Valu franchise.

The power of franchising to affect change in our communities is on display this issue, as we take a look at the many charitable initiatives restoration franchise ServiceMaster has initiated to help communities across Canada (page 64). And this extends to our Iconic Brand feature, which spotlights the winner of the 2026 Recognition Award for Volunteer Excellence, David Druker, and the huge impact he—and his brand, The UPS Store Canada— has had on the franchising community (page 61).

For more exciting content from the 2026 CFA Awards, and a full list of Franchisees’ Choice Designation winners, Franchise Canada is releasing a special awards supplement. There you’ll find every award winner alongside exclusive video content and articles—and you may just find your next franchise opportunity from an award-winning brand!

To help you along your franchise search, we encourage you to visit LookforaFranchise.ca, the CFA’s official online directory of franchise opportunities, to request information directly from CFA member brands. Remember to Look for the Logo—the CFA member logo tells you that a brand has signed on to the Association’s Code of Ethics, showing their commitment to ethical franchising and a passion for excellence.

You can also visit FranchiseCanada.Online for even more resources to help you along your journey, from tutorials on the basics of franchising to podcasts diving deep into the franchisee experience. Don’t forget to subscribe to Franchise Canada E-News to get the latest content delivered straight to your inbox.

Hard work deserves recognition, and we hope that this Excellence in Franchising issue can inspire you with its stories of success. As you take your first steps along your franchising journey, Franchise Canada is here to cheer you on, and support your dream of small business ownership.

Sherry McNeil, CFE President & CEO, Canadian Franchise Association

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

AVERAGE LOCATION REVENUE

$1.48 million per year AT 62% AVERAGE GROSS PROFIT* SABAIFRANCHISE.COM *Data based on Financial Year 2025. Results will vary based on different factors, and do not guarantee of future outcomes.

10,500+ Visits AVERAGE PER LOCATION FY2025

$1.8 Million

TOP PERFORMING LOCATION REVENUE IN FY2025

Invest in Canada's fastest-growing spa franchise Award-winnnig brand with a trusted business concept of more than 20 years Multiple revenue streams across Thai-inspired services, memberships, and retail.

Comprehensive guidance, training, and marketing support provided An initial franchise fee of $60,000 (with a 25% discount for subsequent locations)

EXPANDING TO 100+ LOCATIONS ACROSS CANADA 2155 - 955 SEABORNE AVE., PORT COQUITLAM, BC, CANADA

SABAIFRANCHISE.COM

+1 (604) 259-2757

FRANCHISING@SABAITHAI.COM

CFA BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD CHAIR Todd Wylie*, Master Mechanic PRESIDENT & CEO Sherry McNeil*, CFE, Canadian Franchise Association 1ST VICE CHAIR Nathan Oxford, Jani-King Canada PAST CHAIR Ryan Picklyk*, CFE, A&W Food Services of Canada SECRETARY & GENERAL COUNSEL

PUBLISHER

Canadian Franchise Association (CFA)

Darrell Jarvis*, Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP

SENIOR EDITOR Joelle Kidd

TREASURER Brodie Sheahan*, MNP LLP

CONTENT PRODUCER Alyssa Thulmann

CHAIR, FRANCHISE SUPPORT SERVICES

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrea Lee

Paul daSilva*, RBC

CHAIR, LEGAL & LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

Andraya Frith*, Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP DIRECTORS

Andrew Arminen, Metal Supermarkets Cliff Campbell**, CFE, A Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections Jon Domanko, Restaurant Brands International Chuck Farrell, Pizza Pizza Dixie Ho, Mr. Lube + Tires Arno Krug Jr., CEFA Early Learning Scott McCannell, Foodtastic John Prittie, Koala Insulation Angela Rollins**, Great Clips Fiona Styant, CFE, MOLLY MAID Canada Cailin White, Boston Pizza Thomas Wong, CFE, Kevito Group *Executive Committee member **Franchisee Representative

ADVERTISING SALES Richard Davies AD COORDINATOR Andrea Lee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Georgie Binks, Suzanne Bowness, Mei Linh Cheng, Hannah Foulger, Jan Jennings, Gina Makkar, Alya Somar, Stefanie Ucci, Kym Wolfe FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION:

Richard Davies, Senior Sales Consultant rdavies@cfa.ca TO SUBSCRIBE TO Franchise Canada

visit www.FranchiseCanada.Online

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

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

© 2026, 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 FRANCHISOR:

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 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 service 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.

For more on our members, visit LookforaFranchise.ca today.

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

L

E

FOR T K O H O

LOGO The Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) is dedicated to encouraging and promoting ethical franchising in Canada and requires all members to follow a strict Code of Ethics.

CFA member brands believe in the importance of the franchisee-franchisor relationship as the ultimate marker of franchising success!

As you research franchise opportunities online, at tradeshows, and in the Franchise Canada directory ... Look for the Logo! The CFA member logo tells you that a brand is a part of the CFA community, has signed on to the Code of Ethics, and meets a high standard of excellence.

Interested in learning more?

View the full Code of Ethics on page 10!

ADVERTORIAL

The Wide World of STEM Learning Mad Science is bringing the power of experiential learning to kids around the globe

M

ad Science was founded more than 40 years ago “with a simple but powerful mission,” says Marco Holstvoogd, president: “To inspire children to explore and enjoy science through hands-on, interactive experiences.”

While it began as a small educational enrichment program, it quickly grew, because parents, schools, and communities saw how effective the program was in making STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) accessible for kids of all ages.

“Over the years, the brand expanded internationally and became one of the world’s leading STEM enrichment organizations for children,” says Holstvoogd. “Today, Mad Science operates in more than 11 countries, bringing science, technology, engineering, and math to life through after-school programs, camps, workshops, assemblies, birthday parties, and special events.”

Raising curious kids One of the biggest impacts Mad Science’s programming has is helping kids gain confidence and curiosity. “Mad Science helps make STEM approachable and exciting, especially for students who may not initially see themselves as ‘science kids,’” Holstvoogd explains.

The hands-on experiments and learning experiences encourage

children to ask questions and problem-solve in a fun environment.

The brand also sees a strong community impact in its work with schools, camps, libraries, and community organizations. By giving families access to STEM education outside a traditional classroom setting, Mad Science makes learning more accessible to more people. “In many communities we are helping address a growing need,” he adds.

“Parents increasingly want programs that are both educational and engaging, and schools appreciate partners who can complement curriculum outcomes while keeping students excited about learning.”

Mad Science programs are aimed at children ages three to 12+, and are offered in a variety of formats, including after school programs, in-school workshops and curriculum-aligned science presentations, summer and holiday camps, birthday parties, preschool science programs, community activations, library and municipal programming, school fairs, and more.

The brand also offers robotics and coding programs, and a program that uses LEGO bricks to teach engineering principles.

“Programs are designed to be highly interactive and hands-on,” says Holstvoogd.

For franchisees, the diversity in content and delivery format offers flexibility alongside multiple revenue streams.

“One of the strengths of the brand is the variety of content available.

Franchisees can offer programming in chemistry, physics, robotics, engineering, space science, coding, and more, allowing them to serve multiple markets and age groups,” he says.

A global brand With 105 locations in 11 countries, Mad Science can leverage the power of a global brand—which has advantages both for customers and franchisees with the brand, Holstvoogd notes.

“First, there is strong brand recognition and credibility. Parents and schools are reassured by the fact that Mad Science has decades of experience and a proven track record internationally.

“Second, the organization benefits from shared innovation. Franchisees gain access to a large library of tested curriculum, operational systems, marketing resources, and program development created through decades of experience across global markets.”

Franchisees with Mad Science also become part of a collaborative worldwide network, where franchise owners can exchange ideas, share best practices, and let others know about strategies that have been successful for them. “That level of support and shared learning is incredibly valuable,” Holstvoogd says.

ADVERTORIAL

As an international organization, Mad Science is also able to continuously evolve its offerings, staying up to date on the latest STEM trends and educational needs. Both science and education are fields that are always evolving, and the reach of a global brand gives Mad Science a leg up in staying current and developing programs that will best serve communities, wherever they are.

Another shift has been towards experiential, hands-on learning.

“Today’s families want educational programs that are interactive, memorable, and engaging—and that aligns perfectly with the Mad Science model.”

Partners in learning In the Canadian market, demand for STEM enrichment programming— whether from schools, communities, or families—remains very strong, Holstvoogd says. Mad Science is also seeing increased interest in partnerships that bring learning experiences to larger audiences.

The brand has even collaborated with NASA for more than 20 years to bring space science and technology concepts to young learners.

Holstvoogd adds that the longevity of the brand itself is another accomplishment to be proud of.

“Remaining successful and relevant for over 40 years in the children’s enrichment industry speaks to the strength of the concept and the quality of the programming.”

Prospective franchisees who are interested in forging their own partnership with the brand should be “passionate about making a positive impact in their community” and enjoy working with families, schools, and children. While a background in education can be helpful, it’s not required.

“What matters most is strong leadership, relationship-building skills, and the ability to manage and grow a team. Franchisees are primarily focused on business development, partnerships, staffing, customer service, and operations rather than personally teaching every class.”

People who are community-oriented, entrepreneurial, organized, and enthusiastic about STEM education tend to do especially well.

New franchisees with the system receive comprehensive onboarding and training in operations, sales, marketing, staffing, program delivery, and business development. They also receive ongoing support from the franchisor after their business has launched.

“The system is designed to help owners launch and grow their business efficiently,” says Holstvoogd.

Franchisees have access to national marketing campaigns, brand assets, operational systems and best practices, ongoing coaching, a collaborative network of franchisees, and assistance with program development and expansion. A Learning Management System (LMS)

provides training resources for instructors and franchisees that is centralized and standardized across the entire franchise system.

There are also plenty of opportunities for growth.

“Canada continues to be a strong growth market for STEM enrichment,” says Holstvoogd. “There are opportunities to expand both geographically into underserved markets and operationally within existing territories through additional partnerships, programs, and service offerings.”

Whether it’s parents seeking additional support for their child’s education, schools hoping to add an interactive, experiential element to the curriculum, or communities looking to expand vacation offerings for kids, there are endless opportunities to share the magic of Mad Science, and lots of demand. “As awareness around STEM education and future workforce skills continues to grow, we believe the demand for experiential learning programs will continue to increase as well.”

Franchise Opportunities Available Across Canada madscience.org/opportunities • 1-833-204-6777

INDUSTRY NEWS

Your source for what’s happening in Canadian franchising

Pizza Nova raises $151,935 for Variety Ontario through its 27th annual That’s Amore Pizza for Kids fundraiser The pizzas have been counted, the results are in, and Pizza Nova’s annual That’s Amore Pizza for Kids fundraiser delivered in a big way.

Supported by guests, franchisees, and vendor partners, Pizza Nova raised $151,935 for Variety – the Children’s Charity of Ontario during this year’s one-day event.

On May 12, Pizza Nova offered its guests medium cheese or pepperoni pizzas for $5.99, tax included, with $1 from each pizza supporting children and youth with disabilities through Variety’s programs. Since the partnership began 27 years ago, Pizza Nova has raised over $3 million for Variety.

“Seeing our customers, franchisees, team members, and partners come together for one special and memorable day in support of such a good cause is a winning formula, and a meaningful reminder of why this campaign has been successful since 1999,” said Domenic Primucci, president of Pizza Nova. “At Pizza

Nova, community has always been central to who we are. We are honoured to continue supporting Variety and its work to create more inclusive opportunities for children and families across Ontario.”

Proceeds from the campaign will help fund Variety’s programs, including access to sports, arts, education, camps, and essential mobility equipment for children of all abilities. The donation also supports Variety Village, a fully accessible facility focused on sports, fitness, and life skills for children.

Domenic Primucci, president of Pizza Nova, along with a team of associates, visited Variety Village to present the donation to Variety leadership and its staff.

“We are deeply grateful to Pizza Nova and everyone who participated in the That’s Amore Pizza for Kids campaign,” said Charlie Johnstone, president and CEO of Variety Ontario. “Partnerships like this help ensure that Variety can give children with disabilities access to the programs, experiences, and support systems they need to build confidence, independence, and community.”

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

Smoke’s Poutinerie drops new permanent menu disruptor Boneless Rib Poutine—never meant for a bun In Canada, summer doesn’t sneak in, it kicks in the door … with a beer in one hand and a BBQ flipper in the other, wearing only a toque and a pair of shorts!

In Canada, summer doesn’t wait for the weather, we summon it, because we’ve had enough. It happens on the only holiday named for exactly how many beers you need to survive the weather, the Victoria Day long weekend—they call it Victoria Day, we call it the May Two-Four, because somewhere over the past 200 years, 24 beers became more important than a long dead Queen.

This is the weekend over 300,000 Canadians hit the campgrounds and lawn chairs litter every driveway.

Does it snow sometimes? Yes. Do we care? Not a snowballs chance in hell.

Then someone declares, “it’s perfect out,” and nobody argues. It’s not logical. It’s Canadian.

Coolers get packed, the road to the cottage becomes a parking lot, and every patio in the country suddenly is “the best seat in the house.”

BBQs get dragged out of hibernation, cleaned for the first time in months, and every Canadian suddenly becomes a grill master.

From coast to coast, we agree on one thing: This is the start. Of late nights, cold beers, good friends, and very loud music. And right on cue— BBQ season is here. Which for some means that unmistakable taste of boneless ribs. But that whole “on a bun” thing? It never made sense to us. So, Smoke’s Poutinerie created what Canadians have been dreaming about, the unofficial start of summer with a brand-new national

INDUSTRY NEWS obsession: the Boneless Rib Poutine. All the smoky, saucy, backyard flavor, with zero compromise.

Here’s the 411 on this Poutine … fresh hand-cut fries, squeaky cheese curds, Smoke’s signature gravy loaded with boneless rib, 40 Creek BBQ Sauce, tangy dill pickles, and freshly diced onion.

What are you waiting for?! The Boneless Rib Poutine dropped Friday, May 15, exclusively available at Smoke’s Poutinerie street locations and third-party delivery platforms.

Wendy’s Canada steps up to the plate as the Official Hamburger of the Blue Jays™ On National Hamburger Day, Wendy’s® Canada announced a new multi-year partnership with the Toronto Blue Jays™, naming Wendy’s the Official Hamburger of the Blue Jays™. This collaboration brings

together two iconic brands united by a shared commitment to quality, fresh fan experiences, and the Canadian communities they serve.

Wendy’s is teaming up with the Blue Jays to fuel the passion of baseball fans from coast to coast. From grabbing the fan-favourite Baconator ® on the way to the game or celebrating every inning with a Frosty ® treat, Wendy’s is proud to be part of

the game-day experience, celebrating the moments Canadians look forward to most, with the quality they deserve.

“At Wendy’s, we’ve always stood for more than just great food—we’re deeply committed to the communities where our customers live, work, and now play,” said John Mulvihill, vice president and managing director, Wendy’s Canada. “Becoming the Official Hamburger of the Blue Jays is a natural fit, bringing together two iconic brands united by a shared passion for delivering the very best for our fans. Whether it’s a Single, Double, or Triple, we’re proud to support Canada’s Team™.”

“Creating memorable experiences for our fans is at the heart of everything we do,” said David O’Reilly, senior director partnerships, Toronto Blue Jays. “We’re proud to partner with a brand like

Transform Lives & Build a Rewarding Career as an Oxford Learning Franchisee Make a difference to students, their families, the community— and your career—as an Oxford Learning franchisee. Founded on the science of cognitive learning, the Oxford Learning franchise system offers key differentiators not found in any other supplemental education system.

Why Choose Oxford Learning?

Our unique, proprietary system and proven methods are the foundation of our franchisees’ success!

•

Trusted Canadian brand with over 40 years of success

•

Comprehensive start-up support and ongoing training

•

Scalable models for growth

•

Impactful, purpose-driven business helping students unlock their potential

Change students’ lives—and your own—as an Oxford Learning Franchisee.

Get started today.

franchise.oxfordlearning.com 1.888.559.2212

Franchise Canada July | August 2026

15

INDUSTRY NEWS Wendy’s that shares our commitment to quality and community connection.”

To celebrate every Blue Jays win, Wendy’s Canada will be launching Win With Wendy’s, an exclusive digital offer giving fans a free Jr Cheeseburger Deluxe with a minimum $5 purchase for every Blue Jays win for the remainder of the 2026 season.

The offer is redeemable through the Wendy’s Canada mobile app at participating Wendy’s restaurants nationwide, reinforcing Wendy’s commitment to delivering everyday value for fans across Canada.

“Both Wendy’s and the Blue Jays are brands that understand the importance of the fan experience,” said Patrick O’Donovan, director and head of marketing for Wendy’s Canada. “This partnership creates new opportunities to connect with fans through shared moments. From

in-stadium experiences and integrated campaigns to exclusive digital offers rewarding Canadians for supporting Canada’s Team. We’re excited to bring people together around a love for the game all season long.”

With the 2026 season underway, Wendy’s is ready for gameday, cheering on Canada’s Team. As the Official Hamburger of the Toronto Blue Jays, Wendy’s fresh, never frozen square hamburgers will be front and centre for fans all season long.

Back to drama: Drama Kids franchisee Anam's inspiring journey as her business expands across New Brunswick When Drama Kids first arrived in New Brunswick, it brought with it a mission: to give children a place to build confidence, creativity, and communication skills through drama.

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

Franchise owner Anam embraced that mission wholeheartedly, and in just one year, she transformed it into a province wide movement.

Her journey has been fast, focused, and full of heart, and now, as she prepares for Year Two, the excitement is only growing.

One year ago, Anam opened her very first Drama Kids academy in Fredericton. With passion and determination, she introduced families to a program built on inclusivity, self expression, and confidence building.

The response was immediate.

Parents saw their children becoming more talkative, more confident, and more willing to try new things. Word spread quickly, and the demand for Drama Kids grew faster than anyone expected.

While many new franchise owners spend their first year learning the ropes, Anam spent hers expanding.

INDUSTRY NEWS Just three months after launching in Fredericton, she opened new academies in Fredericton and Saint John, bringing Drama Kids to even more families eager for a program that builds confidence and communication skills.

• New students discovering their voices • New instructors joining the mission • New communities embracing the Drama Kids philosophy By the end of her first year, Anam had successfully launched three Drama Kids academies across New Brunswick: two academies in Fredericton and one in Saint John.

Each location reflects her commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces where children can grow emotionally, socially, and creatively.

Now, as Anam prepares for her

second year, she is focused on strengthening and expanding the foundation she built so quickly.

Her Year Two goals include: • Growing her instructor teams • Enhancing curriculum delivery • Expanding class offerings • Building deeper community partnerships • Reaching even more families across the province With three thriving academies and a growing reputation for excellence, Drama Kids New Brunswick is poised for an extraordinary second year.

Anam’s story is more than business success, it’s a story of courage, community, and commitment.

She took a dream, nurtured it, and watched it grow into something meaningful for children across New Brunswick.

Her leadership has brought Drama Kids to three communities in just one year, and her vision for Year Two promises even more growth, impact, and inspiration.

BUILDING FUTURES

ONE FENCE AT A TIME The leading fence franchise is bringing its proven franchise model to Canada!

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Step into ownership with a brand built for growth.

AVERAGE SALES

$3.4M*

GROSS PROFIT

$1.4M*

INITIAL INVESTMENT $134K - $310K* *Numbers from 2026 FDD.

LEARN MORE AT: grow.empowerfranchising.com/canada

Franchise Canada July | August 2026

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ADVERTORIAL

The Art of Franchise Success

Imagine Arts Academy is creating the next generation of creative thinkers— and a fulfilling path for business owners.

“I

magine Arts Academy was created from a powerful idea,” says Sharon King, VP of R&D and Operations for Mad Science Group. “If our Mad Science brand could transform how children engage with science— making it truly engaging, memorable, and sparking curiosity—why couldn’t the same approach revolutionize arts education?”

Growing off the success of Mad Science (see page 12), Imagine Arts Academy was developed as a complementary brand focused on creativity and artistic expression. Beginning in 2016, Mad Science franchisees began testing their markets across North America with art-enrichment programming. “The response from families, schools, and communities was immediate,” says Marketing Director Samantha Superstein. By 2019, Imagine Arts Academy was launched as a standalone franchise concept.

Today, there are 30 Imagine Arts Academy locations across Canada and the U.S., and the brand continues to grow each year.

Sparking kids’ creativity The concept is immersive, themebased art enrichment experiences

that take place in schools, camps, libraries, community centres, and at family events. They’re “designed to meet children where they already are,” says King.

Workshops and after-school programs for kids ages 5-12 are a mainstay of the brand’s offerings.

Delivered directly inside schools, these weekly programs give children hands-on artistic experience with a range of exciting themes, like cultural traditions and global art, nature and animal conservation, design and innovation, and emotional expression and empathy.

“Programs are intentionally designed to move beyond simple artsand-crafts activities,” says Superstein.

Arts education develops essential skills that are “often overlooked and undervalued in traditional education systems,” King notes, including empathy, attention to detail, emotional intelligence, fine motor skills, experimentation and iteration, problemsolving, and more.

Superstein shares that “creativity is not treated as a secondary activity—it’s positioned as a foundational life skill.” It’s not a coincidence that their sister brand is Mad Science,

either. “Both brands share the same philosophy: children learn most effectively through individual and group projects that actively engage them, intellectually and emotionally, to create something meaningful.”

The brand is a key player in the conversation around future-ready education and child development, as more and more parents aim to supplement their children’s education with skill-building programs that ready them for the real world.

Imagine Arts Academy locations also run birthday parties and private events, community workshops and youth outreach, and summer and vacation camps.

Business at play Of course, as a business, Imagine Arts Academy is also deeply fulfilling for franchisees who want to help raise the next generation.

“Entrepreneurs [feel] the emotional impact of delivering meaningful services that spark creativity and support child development,” King says.

But it’s also a sound investment.

She notes, “For franchisees, schoolbased programming creates recurring enrollment opportunities, strong

ADVERTORIAL

institutional relationships, and longterm customer loyalty.” Camps, community workshops, and private events also create additional revenue channels, increase brand visibility, and strengthen community integration.

“What makes the Imagine Arts Academy model especially attractive from a business perspective is that all of these service areas work together within one integrated ecosystem,” Superstein adds. A child may first encounter the brand through a library workshop, enroll in an after-school program, or attend a summer camp, and later celebrate a birthday party with Imagine Arts Academy. This creates multiple customer touchpoints, and lots of opportunities for customer referrals.

Additionally, operating in an outreach-based model rather than investing heavily in standalone real estate means lower startup costs and operational overhead, as well as stronger community visibility and the ability to grow more flexibly, to a far greater territory. Franchisees are positioned “where families already gather,” says King.

Sculpting the next generation The brand “sits at the intersection of several major market shifts,” including the rise of design-thinking education, schools looking for more engaging and interdisciplinary enrichment partnerships, and parents increasingly looking for meaningful experiences they can share with their kids, in opposition to passive screen entertainment.

The rise of AI and automation in the workforce is also impressing upon parents the value of teaching kids to develop human skills like creativity.

“Creativity is no longer viewed as simply an extracurricular activity—it is increasingly recognized as essential to how children learn, communicate, innovate, collaborate, and develop emotional resilience,” says Superstein.

The support of expertise Another major advantage for prospective franchisees is the brand’s connection to Mad Science Group, King notes.

“Imagine Arts Academy franchisees benefit from more than 40 years of franchising expertise, operational systems, outreach infrastructure, programming development experience, and enrichment-industry leadership while still participating in the growth momentum of a newer and expanding brand,” she says—the best of both worlds.

The system is technologically modernized, with digital operational tools, marketing infrastructure in place, and scalable support to help franchisees connect with customers, from outreach and scheduling to customer management and business development.

Entrepreneurial, communityminded people tend to be ideal franchisees of the brand, and an art or education background is not required.

Imagine Arts Academy also offers plenty of support for new franchisees.

Along with programming and operational guidance, they have access to a system designed to help businesses grow strategically and build a longterm community presence.

Initial training includes operations, marketing, community outreach, sales

and school partnership development, hiring and instructor management, and more—a comprehensive program that helps new franchisees set up their business for ongoing success.

Franchisees also gain access to professionally developed programming and lesson plans, instructor onboarding and training resources, a learning management system, booking and scheduling platforms, national marketing, and more.

And the support continues well past opening, with ongoing coaching and mentorship from the franchisor.

Superstein says the brand is planning on major long-term growth across Canada. But ultimately, she adds, this growth is about more than geographic expansion. It’s about where children’s enrichment industries—and Canadian families— are going.

It’s “a future where creativity, experiential learning, emotional intelligence, human connection, and community engagement become increasingly essential parts of how children learn and thrive—all while having fun.”

Franchise Opportunities Available Across Canada imagineartsacademy.com/franchising • 1-833-204-6777

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• P R

• #1

D TO BE OU

RS IN A R

“ I would definitely buy an Express franchise again.

It’s been life-changing for my family.”

Reggie Kaji Franchise Owner

Picture yourself as an Express Franchise Owner Take advantage of your skills and background to work for you and own the #1 staffing franchise.

• $5.3M AUV*

for franchises open over 2 years

• No staffing experience necessary • Award-winning training and support programs

New and existing franchise opportunities available nationwide

ExpressFranchising.com • 877-652-6400 *For territories open more than 24 months, average sales in 2025 were $5,342,686. For territories open more than 60 months, average sales in 2025 were $5,775,277. First-year offices averaged $999,949 annual sales according to Item 19 in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).The following states regulate the offer and sale of franchises: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. If you are a resident of one of these states, we will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with applicable pre-sale registration and disclosure. MN Registration #F-1755. © 2026 Express Employment Professionals

COVER STORY

Fabulous Franchisees A look into the hard work and dedication behind The 2026 Franchisee of the Year award winners

BY MEI LINH CHENG AND ALYSSA THULMANN

Franchise Canada July | August 2026

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