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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.

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Global Flavours These quick-service restaurant brands serve authentic international cuisine, one meal at a time

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Twists on Tea Two franchise brands stirring up the beverage industry with innovation and teabased drinks

The Future of Food Service Experts weigh in on how franchise systems are using AI in food service operations

Knead to Know Pizza Franchises 13 pizza-loving franchise brands across Canada

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DEPARTMENTS

HOMEGROWN & LOCALLY OWNED 100% Canadian Franchise Systems

MULTI-GEN MAGIC The Power of Print The Grassicks, franchisees with Allegra Marketing Print Mail, are celebrating 40 years and more to come

GIVING BACK For Pets’ Sake Global Pet Foods proudly supports animal shelters, charities, and rescue organizations across the country with the annual Show Us Your Heart fundraiser campaign

SHOW ME THE MONEY 4 Franchises for under $50K

FRANCHISE TUTORIAL Tutorials 15 & 16 This issue: • Term of Agreement and Renewals • Renewal Fees and Redesign Costs

COLUMNS

LEADERSHIP PROFILE There’s No Place Like Home Dani DePetrillo, COO of Right at Home Canada, combines entrepreneurial spirit with social purpose to create growth DAY IN A LIFE Charged up For Lanielle and Dennis St. Denis, expertise and customer service are powering their success as Batteries Expert franchisees

FIRST YEAR The Business of Sparkling Clean Anago Cleaning Systems master franchisee Sumit Punchhi, helps everyday entrepreneurs make their business ownership dreams a reality

Season 10 launches this September!

6 PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE 10 CFA CODE OF ETHICS 17 INDUSTRY NEWS 71 ASK THE EXPERTS 77 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX 78 FRANCHISE ROUNDUP

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ICONIC BRAND The Real Deal As Century 21 celebrates its 50th year in Canada, both franchisor and franchisees look at how far they’ve come

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Franchise Canada

September | October 2026

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

PULL UP A CHAIR

omething about food brings people together, and Canadians love a good meal: in fact, Canadians visit restaurants approximately 23 million times daily! This is according to Restaurants Canada, which also reports that the foodservice industry generates roughly $125 billion in annual sales. Many of these visits take place at franchised small businesses, whether it’s a sit-down family meal, friends catching up over coffee, or a lunch grabbed on the go. For prospective investors interested in going into business in the food service sector, there is a veritable smorgasbord of franchise opportunities available. That’s why this issue of Franchise Canada highlights all things food. In our cover feature this issue (page 21), you’ll learn about four full-service dining franchises hosting hungry Canadians. We also highlight QSR (quickservice restaurant) brands bringing global cuisines—the flavours of Greece, Mexico, and Japan—home to their local communities (page 31). Consumer trends change quickly in the food world, and franchises are well positioned to adapt. A robust franchise network gives individual owners access to research and development and national marketing. This issue shows how franchises are responding to trends in the QSR space, from brand partnerships and celebrity collaborations on menu items (page 25) to trending tea drinks (page 36). On the business side, franchisors have increasingly been adopting AI-based software tools to help streamline food service operations. Turn to page 41 to find a roundtable discussion with several technology brands who supply restaurant franchises and learn more about how these new tools are affecting the industry. We round out our food coverage with a list of pizza franchise opportunities for prospective pizza shop owners to explore (page 44), and profiles of three homegrown restaurant brands all founded in Canada (page 49). Each issue of Franchise Canada aims to equip you with the tools you need to start your franchising journey, including inspiration and insight from franchisees who are just a little farther along the path. On page 58, you’ll learn from couple Lanielle and Dennis St. Denis about

what it’s like to run a Batteries Expert franchise. You’ll also meet the Grassick family, franchisees who recently celebrated 40 years in business at their Allegra Marketing Print Mail franchise in Halton, Ontario (page 52). On page 61, Sumit Punchhi of Anago Cleaning Systems takes us through his first year as a master franchisee for the brand. And on page 55, you’ll find the story of Dani dePatrillo, COO of Right at Home Canada, who helped bring the home health care service brand to Canada and grow it to more than 60 locations. If this food issue starts a craving for franchise opportunities, be sure to visit LookforaFranchise.ca, our online directory. You can search by industry type or investment level, and contact brands directly to find out more. Remember to look for the CFA member logo to make sure your chosen franchise investment has signed on to the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) Code of Ethics (page 10). Also be sure to subscribe to Franchise Canada E-News so that you never miss an issue, with even more franchise investment opportunities delivered piping-hot to your inbox. Finally, readers in Toronto and Vancouver should make sure to register for free to attend the Franchise Canada Show in your city, and connect directly in person with franchise brands! Visit FranchiseCanada.Show for more information. As always, there are boundless options and opportunities when it comes to franchising. As an almost $150 billion dollar industry operating in more than 60 industries, franchising is a feast—so bon appétit!

Sherry McNeil, CFE President & CEO, Canadian Franchise Association

Source: Restaurants Canada

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

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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

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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

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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

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

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

Chai, Culture, and a Country to Fill

Chaiiwala of London Canada is building something Canada has never seen before.

arak chai has been around for centuries. You can find it on the streets of Mumbai, in the homes of Pakistani families in Birmingham, in corner shops across East Africa. It is not a new idea. What is new in Canada is the idea that a cup of chai could anchor a national franchise. That’s the bet Chaiiwala of London Canada is making—and the numbers suggest it’s not a bad one. The brand started in Leicester, England in 2015. The concept was simple: take the chai culture that millions of South Asian families already lived inside—the ritual of the cup, the snack alongside it, the unhurried hour in a place that felt like your own—and build a café around it. It worked. Chaiiwala of London grew quickly across the U.K., then internationally, eventually landing in Canada with its first location opening in 2021. That Canadian foothold has grown to 29 locations across British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, Quebec, and Saskatchewan, with three more confirmed before year end and fifteen in the pipeline for 2027. The target is 100 stores by 2030. Ajmal Gundhra, COO of Chaiiwala of London Canada, does not talk about that number the way franchise executives usually talk about growth targets, as aspiration dressed up as plan. He talks about it as a capacity problem. The demand is already there. The question is how fast the infrastructure can keep up.

ADVERTORIAL

“Our next chapter in Canada is about disciplined growth. We want to open in the right markets, with the right franchise partners, and make sure every new location strengthens the brand rather than simply adding another pin to the map.” — Ajmal Gundhra, COO

Getting It Right For those already familiar with chai, the Chaiiwala of London menu needs no explanation. Walk into any Chaiiwala of London location and you’ll experience karak chai made to a consistent house recipe, served fresh. Parathas made in-house. Samosas. Toasties. The kind of food that shows up at family gatherings and late-night study sessions and Sunday mornings when nobody wants to cook. For customers outside the South Asian community, the brand offers an introduction to a food culture that has been overlooked in the Canadian restaurant industry. There’s a gap between what a significant and growing population of Canadians actually eat and what they can buy when eating out or on their morning coffee run. Chaiiwala of London sits squarely in that space. The freshness commitment that runs through the operation is not marketing language. At Chaiiwala of London locations, parathas and pastries are made in-house rather than shipped in pre-made. In an industry category where frozen and prepackaged is the norm, that decision costs more and takes more labour. It also produces food that tastes like food, which is the point. The brand treats this not as a feature but as a baseline, the thing that makes everything else credible. That credibility matters more in this category than most. Chai is not a product South Asian customers are willing to accept at a low standard. They drink it at home, made the way their families taught them.

For Chaiiwala of London to earn their loyalty, the cup in the café has to hold up to that comparison. Across 29 locations and five years of Canadian operation, it has. The Toronto Star recognized this excellence in 2025, awarding Chaiiwala of London Gold in both Best Indian and Best Cakes/Cupcakes in the Readers’ Choice awards. Two categories, one brand, voted on by the customers themselves. A National Brand in Motion Twenty-nine locations. That is where Chaiiwala of London Canada stands as this issue goes to print, up from 25 at the start of summer, with four new openings across Ontario, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan landing in July 2026 alone. Three more locations are confirmed before year end. The target is 100 by 2030. What that pace actually looks like on the ground is worth understanding. This is not a brand consolidating in one region and calling it national. The 2026 openings span downtown Toronto, downtown Vancouver, the interior of B.C., and Saskatchewan: four very different markets with different demographics, different competitive landscapes, and different customer profiles. That Chaiiwala of London performs consistently across all four is not an accident. It’s what five years of operational refinement across four provinces looks like when it starts to compound. British Columbia has been the most active growth market. Multiple locations are opening across the province in 2026, from urban

corridors to smaller city markets. The customer base in B.C.’s South Asian communities represents some of the highest-density demand the brand has encountered anywhere in Canada. Those customers do not need to be introduced to chai. They need a place that gets it right. Ontario is the other major front. Downtown Toronto is a deliberate corporate expansion, planting the flag in the highest-visibility urban market in the country. The Danforth location puts Chaiiwala of London in a neighbourhood with deep South Asian roots and a customer base that holds the product to a high standard. That is exactly the kind of market the brand wants to be in. Saskatchewan represents something different again. Opening in Saskatoon signals that Chaiiwala of London is not limiting itself to obvious high-density markets. The South Asian population in Saskatchewan’s cities is growing, underserved by the current food landscape, and loyal to brands that show up and do the product justice. The brand’s format strategy is what makes this pace possible. A standard full-size café runs 1,200 to 1,800 square feet with full menu and seating, and remains the core of the network. Investment for this format runs from $450,000 to $750,000. The express concept runs at approximately 700 square feet and $350,000, designed for higher-turnover environments where customers want the product quickly. The first express location opened in Kelowna, B.C. It will not be the last.

ADVERTORIAL

“For us, growth is not just measured by how many stores we open. It is measured by the health of our franchisees, the experience of our customers, and whether we are building a business that can still be growing decades from now.” — Ajmal Gundhra, COO

Beyond those two formats, Chaiiwala of London Canada is actively exploring gas station and highway truck stop locations. Chai is hot, portable, and genuinely energizing, a natural fit for the drive-through-andgo occasion that coffee chains have owned for decades. There’s no strategic reason that the drive-thru model belongs to coffee exclusively. The picture that emerges is a brand that has moved past the question of whether it works in Canada. It works. The current phase is about how fast the infrastructure can support the demand that already exists. The Support Behind the Store Opening a franchise is one decision. Running it for ten years is a different one. Franchisees who have been through both will tell you the quality of the franchisor’s support infrastructure is often the difference between those two outcomes. Chaiiwala of London Canada has built its support centre with that in

mind. The operations team works directly with franchisees on day-to-day execution, covering staffing, systems, and service consistency. The culinary team handles menu development and product standards, which matters more in a brand where freshness is a genuine operating commitment rather than a slogan. The marketing team runs national campaigns with local market activation built into the model, driving traffic through planned limitedtime offer cycles, digital campaigns, and community-level programming that individual franchisees cannot execute alone. Training runs three weeks. It covers not just the mechanics of the operation but the culture of the brand: why the product is made the way it is, what the customer expects, and how Chaiiwala of London locations function as community spaces rather than just transaction points. Hassan and Mohsan, co-owners of two Chaiiwala of London locations in Brampton, know what that

support looks like in practice. When Hassan evaluated the brand before investing, his read was direct: the product was authentic and the unit economics made sense. He visited a location, saw the operation, and made his decision. What followed was anything but passive. For the first six months of his first location, Hassan was on the floor several days a week, building the team, setting service standards, connecting with customers directly. “I believe that as a franchisee, you need to deeply understand every facet of the business before you can effectively lead others to manage it,” he says. “Being there in the trenches during those early months allowed me to personally connect with our customers and refine our workflows.” When head office was needed, it showed up. During the launch of the second Brampton location, the operations team was physically on-site to work through the early hiring and setup challenges that come with any opening. Area managers continue to visit regularly. The proof of a strong operational foundation is the second location itself. Hassan applied the same hands-on approach more efficiently the second time, working from a clearer blueprint with a team that already understood the standard.

ADVERTORIAL

“That initial period is really about establishing the DNA of the business,” he says. “Spending those dedicated days on the floor ensures the culture is set right from the start, providing a stable foundation that allows the business to thrive independently.” For prospective franchisees, Hassan’s arc is worth paying attention to. He started with one store, did the work to understand it completely, and scaled because the model proved itself. The demand in Brampton, a high-volume market with a customer base that knows exactly what good chai should taste like, validated everything. The Opportunity Canada’s franchise market is crowded. Any buyer walking the floor at a franchise expo in 2026 will be pitched coffee brands, sub sandwich concepts, fitness studios, and cleaning services. Most of them are selling

“The opportunity for Chaiiwala of London goes far beyond one demographic. Chai may be rooted in South Asian culture, but the experience we are building is for everyone. Our goal is to make Chaiiwala of London a mainstream Canadian café brand while staying authentic to where we came from.” — Ajmal Gundhra, COO

the same thing in different packaging. Chaiiwala of London is selling something different. It is one of the country’s fastest-growing café concepts, with a presence across five provinces that no other South Asian café brand has matched. The demographic it serves is growing faster than nearly any other in the country. And it is still early enough that significant territory remains available for the right operators. The 100-store target by 2030 is not a ceiling. It’s a checkpoint. The brand

has opened across four provinces in five years, identified multiple viable formats, and built the support infrastructure to bring new franchisees in and set them up to operate. Chaiiwala of London Canada holds CFA membership and back-to-back Toronto Star Readers’ Choice Gold recognition, proof the brand resonates with real customers in the markets it enters. For buyers who want to get into a proven brand before the map fills in, the window is open. It will not stay that way indefinitely.

CHAIIWALA OF LONDON CANADA AT A GLANCE Franchise units in Canada: 29 Franchise fee: $55,000 Investment: Express concept - $350,000 Full concept - $450,000 to $750,000 Training: 3 weeks Available territories: All of Canada In business since: 2015 (UK) / 2021 (Canada) CFA member since: 2020

www.chaiiwalaoflondon.ca

INDUSTRY NEWS

Your source for what’s happening in Canadian franchising Canada’s leading dessert café brand expands to the U.S. D Spot Dessert Café, Canada’s leading dessert café brand, is embarking on its international expansion plans with its first location in the United States. The new café, located in Dallas, Texas at 100-3432 E Hebron Parkway held its official grand opening on Saturday, June 11. The Dallas café will offer D Spot’s full dessert menu, including freshly made Belgian waffles, signature crepes, handcrafted milkshakes, milk cakes, croffles, skillet cookies, and a wide range of globally inspired desserts, together with their signature savory menu including burgers, pizza, wings, and sandwiches including shaved brisket and Pesto Bella paninis. The space is designed for afternoon treats, post dinner desserts, date nights, and convenient takeout. “Opening D Spot’s first U.S. location is an important milestone for our team,” says Abdul R. Khan, location franchisee. “Dallas has an incredible food culture, and we’re excited to introduce a dessert café experience built around quality, creativity and warm hospitality.” The Dallas location is operated by franchise partners Abdul R. Khan and Faizan Mirza, who bring experience in hospitality, retail, and operations. Together, they will oversee daily management of the café and ensure guests receive the welcoming, community focused service that defines the D Spot brand. “This opening marks a significant step in D Spot’s growth strategy as we expand into the U.S. market,” says Kaan Sayiner, CEO and president, D Spot Dessert Café. “With a strong Canadian footprint, we’re excited to bring our dessert experience to new

communities as part of our broader U.S. expansion.” Founded in Canada in 2014, D Spot Dessert Café has grown into one of the country’s most recognized dessert café brands, known for its extensive menu, multicultural flavour influences, and made-to-order desserts. With more than 55 locations across Canada and additional U.S. openings planned, the company continues to expand through franchising. Metal Supermarkets expands leadership team, welcoming Adria Hartwig as chief development officer and Eric Szaja as vice president, information technology Metal Supermarkets, the world’s largest supplier of small-quantity metals, announced the appointments of Adria Hartwig as chief development officer and Eric Szaja as vice president, information technology (IT). Hartwig brings over 20 years of experience in franchising, real estate, construction, and multi-unit operations, including leadership positions at Coldwell Banker and City Wide Facility Solutions and a proven track record in franchise development, franchisee recruitment, and long-term growth strategies. At Metal Supermarkets, Hartwig will lead the franchise development team, focusing on franchise recruitment, territory strategy, broker relationships, and the development of network growth initiatives across North America. “I’m excited to join Metal Supermarkets and be part of an outstanding team that continues to raise the bar for franchise development and operational excellence,” said Hartwig. “What attracted me to the

brand was the combination of a differentiated concept, an exceptional team, and the opportunity it creates for franchisees. Metal Supermarkets gives entrepreneurs the chance to build a business with significant growth potential, strong unit economics, and recurring customer demand. There is tremendous runway ahead, and I look forward to partnering with franchisees who want to build lasting value for their families and communities.” Szaja brings over two decades of international IT leadership experience to Metal Supermarkets, including senior IT roles at Amphenol HSIO (High Speed IO Connectors and OverPass) and C.A.T. North America, one of Canada’s largest logistics companies. He specializes in leading IT in multi-location, growth-stage businesses and brings extensive experience in infrastructure, cybersecurity, enterprise applications, cloud, and global vendor governance. In his new role, Szaja will lead the IT team and oversee IT strategy to improve technology processes and business systems supporting franchisees across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. “Joining Metal Supermarkets at this pivotal time is an exciting opportunity to help lead the company into its next phase, where technology will play a larger role in supporting franchisees, scaling operations and unlocking new capabilities such as analytics and AI,” said Szaja. “I am looking forward to working closely with franchisees and the Head Office team on the tools, data and AI capabilities that will make day-to-day operations easier and help stores serve customers faster.” “Adria Hartwig and Eric Szaja are critical additions to the Head Office

Franchise Canada September | October 2026

INDUSTRY NEWS team,” said Ryan Pryznyk, president and CEO of Metal Supermarkets. “These appointments mark an exciting new chapter of growth for the company. We are impressed by their drive, industry expertise and their demonstrated abilities to innovate in their respective fields. Their leadership will be instrumental in driving long-term growth and expansion for Metal Supermarkets.” Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Metal Supermarkets is known as the convenience stores for metal, providing solutions to customers’ metal needs in both the business-to-business and business-to-consumer categories. With a diverse product base and no minimum order quantity, Metal Supermarkets has earned longlasting relationships with customers by delivering a world-class customer service experience and over 8,000

types, shapes, and grades of metal, cut to customers’ exact specifications and ready fast. Metal Supermarkets is a portfolio company of Riverarch Equity Partners, a Pittsburgh-based private equity investment firm. Ricky’s & Famoso Seton introduces Weekend Breakfast Buffet Ricky’s & Famoso Seton continues to give guests more reasons to visit with the recent introduction of authentic Famoso pizza and the launch of a new weekend breakfast buffet. Together, these additions offer even more variety, making the restaurant a destination for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. The Breakfast Buffet is offered as an add-on option, allowing diners to continue enjoying Ricky’s traditional table service while choosing to fill

their plates with eggs and bacon, pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, pastries, and more. Available Saturdays and Sundays, it’s the perfect way to gather with family and friends for a relaxed weekend breakfast. Guests can also enjoy the authentic flavours of Famoso Italian Pizzeria, now available alongside Ricky’s extensive menu. From handcrafted Neapolitan pizzas made with imported Italian ingredients to fresh pastas, salads, and appetizers, the addition of Famoso brings even more choice to the dining experience, whether dining in, taking out, or ordering delivery. “Our goal is to offer our guests more choice while delivering the quality and hospitality they’ve come to expect,” said Mike, the owner of Ricky’s & Famoso Seton. “The addition of Famoso and our new Weekend Breakfast Buffet gives our

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INDUSTRY NEWS guests even more reasons to make us their go-to restaurant, no matter the occasion.” The Weekend Breakfast Buffet is available Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 1010– 19489 Seton Crescent SE, Calgary, AB. Reservations are recommended during peak times. Pet Valu Raises more than $2.6 million for local animal causes Pet Valu, the leading Canadian specialty retailer of pet food and pet-related supplies, proudly announced today that its 2026 Pet Appreciation Month initiatives were its most successful to date, raising more than $2.6 million in monetary and product donations for over 500 animal-related causes across Canada. This year’s donations exceeded the previous record, set in 2024, by $400,000.

“We are deeply touched by the generosity of our devoted pet lovers who stepped up at a time when so many Canadian animal rescues, shelters and charities need essential funds and products,” says Greg Ramier, CEO at Pet Valu. “We established Pet Appreciation Month in 2011 to provide much needed support for local animal organizations doing invaluable work to help pets in need in the communities in which we operate. We are very proud that Pet Appreciation Month is now the largest of Pet Valu’s Companions for Change™ annual initiatives and that this year’s donations exceeded all previous years.” Pet Appreciation Month is held annually in June. Throughout the month, customers at each of Pet Valu’s family of more than 700 stores outside of Quebec are invited to purchase a paper PAW for a donation

amount or a product of their choosing; 100 per cent of all donations go to the store’s designated local rescue or cause. Since inception, Pet Appreciation Month has raised more than $21.6 million in monetary and product donations. During Pet Appreciation Month, select stores in the Pet Valu family host a National Adoption Weekend to help find loving forever homes for local pets in need. On this weekend, participating stores invite adoptable pets, volunteers, and rescue staff along with devoted pet lovers looking to welcome a new furry family member into their homes. This year, over 1,000 pets in need found forever homes in June. Over the years, Pet Valu National Adoption Weekends have helped find forever homes for more than 54,000 pets.

Pancake & Breakfast House PANCAKES

CHICKEN & WAFFLES

BURGERS

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A classic reimagined. A legacy nenewed. Ricky's Original Pancakes & Breakfast House celebrates everything about breakfast — signature pancakes, waffles, classic favourites and modern comfort food. Canadian-owned and operated since 1962. Come chat with us to find out how you can own one.

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Franchise Canada September | October 2026

COVER STORY

THE FULL SERVICE FEELING Restaurant franchises deliver the experience customers love BY GEORGIE BINKS

Canadians have always loved dining out. But as prices rise, it becomes even more important to consumers to make every restaurant occasion count— to treat themselves to a great meal and get value for their dollar. That’s where these full-service dining franchises come in. Franchise Canada spoke to three full-service restaurant brands that have captured Canadian hearts and tastebuds—and offer a buffet of opportunity for prospective franchisees.

Franchise Canada September | October 2026

COVER STORY

Milestones Milestones describes itself as a casual fine-dining, or "polished casual," brand. The franchise opened in Vancouver in 1989, grew across western Canada through the 1990s, and now boasts 46 locations in six provinces. Peter Mammas, CEO of Foodtastic, the company that owns Milestones, says, “The franchise offers familiar, craveable food served with a twist, paired with craft cocktails and genuine hospitality, in a room that works equally well for a birthday, Sunday brunch, or a drink with friends at happy hour.” In a time when the economy is contracting, Mammas says overall demand remains resilient. In fact, he explains, the Canadian food service market continues to grow, but is being reshaped rather than simply expanding. “Value sensitivity is the dominant theme. Guests are dining out a bit less and expecting more for their money, which rewards brands that deliver a genuine experience for the price,” says Mammas. For restaurant brands today, the challenges are thin margins, labour availability and cost, food-cost inflation, real-estate and build-out expense, and the operational intensity of a business open seven days a week. But a brand like Milestones has the system backing to meet those challenges head-on. Mammas says, “Milestones has been a recognized leader in Canadian casual fine dining for over 30 years, so a franchisee is not building awareness from zero. The backing of Foodtastic— with its portfolio of 30 brands, which translates into real purchasing power, supply-chain leverage, marketing,

financing programs, and operational support—[is something] an independent operator simply cannot replicate.” Ever looking toward the future, the franchise has set up the Milestones Test Kitchen and Fraser Bar in Coquitlam, B.C. The Test Kitchen runs a menu split evenly between beloved classics and dishes still in development, so the brand can gather feedback from real guests and refine menu items before rolling them out nationally. “Think Samosa Poutine, Lobster Frites, and wood-fired pizzas, alongside longstanding favorites,” Mammas says. That location also features Fraser Bar, a 1920s prohibition-inspired cocktail concept that may evolve into a standalone in other cities. Mammas says the strongest franchise candidates for Milestones are hands-on, hospitality-driven operators. “Prospective candidates need the financial capacity, strong people-leadership skills, the discipline to follow a proven system, and the resilience to run a demanding seven-day-a-week business.” Milestones plans to expand into new Canadian markets under the Foodtastic umbrella. Peter Mammas says, "We're proud of our Canadian roots and DNA, just as proud of our people and our partners who work tirelessly to serve our customers and live up to our values."

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

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

COVER STORY

Pacini There’s nothing like an unlimited bread bar to pull customers into a restaurant, and fabulous food to keep them there. Geneviève Nadeau, director of caring and brand visibility for Italian restaurant concept Pacini says, “Our signature Bread Bar ®, where guests grill unlimited bread and create their own combinations, remains one of the most recognizable dining experiences in Canada.” Pacini is a full-service restaurant brand that’s been bringing people together over authentic Italian cuisine for more than 40 years. It was founded in Quebec in 1984 with the vision of bringing authentic Italian dining into a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The brand has grown to more than 25 locations across Canada. Nadeau says what truly sets Pacini apart is the experience. “In today's fast-paced world, we believe restaurants should offer more than a meal. They should provide a moment to slow down,” she says. “We are intentionally creating spaces where families, friends, business travelers and colleagues can disconnect from everyday stress, reconnect with each other, and enjoy genuine hospitality in a warm, welcoming environment.” Franchisees benefit from joining Pacini because it is an established Canadian brand with strong consumer recognition, proven operational systems, and decades of experience, Nadeau says. “Beyond our operational expertise, we offer comprehensive support in site selection, restaurant design, training, marketing, digital strategy, and ongoing business development.”

At the same time, the industry faces challenges including labour shortages, rising operating costs, and changing consumer expectations. The brand is proving its agility in meeting these challenges through its expansion plan. Pacini is now offering a more compact restaurant model of approximately 4,000 square feet, specifically designed for hotel developments. The hotel-focused concept allows investors and hotel developers to integrate a premium full-service restaurant with a significantly lower investment than a traditional standalone location. Nadeau says the ideal Pacini franchisee is someone who is passionate about hospitality and understands that restaurants are ultimately about people. Restaurant experience is certainly valuable, but equally important are leadership skills, financial discipline, a customer-first mindset, and the ability to build strong teams. Nadeau says, “We believe our success is directly tied to the success of our franchisees. Restaurants that make people feel welcome, comfortable, and connected will continue to thrive. At Pacini, we believe that reducing the stress of everyday life through genuine hospitality is just as important as serving a great meal.” The goal for the future? “Our long-term vision is to position Pacini as Canada's leading Italian casual dining brand.” Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2026

COVER STORY

Smitty’s It’s difficult to think of Smitty’s and not start dreaming of pancakes. However, over the years the popular Canadian franchise has evolved from tasty breakfasts to offering full-service casual breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals. Jason Kaytor, president of Smitty's Canada Inc. says, “The fact we have a strong offering for breakfast, lunch, and dinner makes us unique.” While the brand originally started as a breakfast concept, “and remains a dominant player at breakfast,” over the last five years Kaytor says Smitty’s has shifted some focus to its lunch and dinner offering. “This has been our largest area of year-over-year growth.” Part of this shift was driven by changing consumer patterns, Kaytor notes. “Since the pandemic, breakfast for full-service casual restaurants is one of the day parts that has seen the highest decline in guest count, because a good part of the population is still working from home. They’re not on the roads, they’re not commuting to and from work. Instead they’re starting the day in their own kitchen at home.” There has also been increased competition in the breakfast space from QSR (quick-service restaurant) brands that have expanded their menus to include breakfast. But, Kaytor says, “By focussing on lunch and dinner, we’ve really seen growth there.” For Smitty’s franchisees, Kaytor says, there’s an advantage to expanding to a full day menu. “You pay the same overhead costs as other restaurants that offer

breakfast and lunch or lunch and dinner only—it’s a real advantage that we have three very strong day-parts.” He adds, “That’s a benefit to our franchisees in particular because there are so many competitors out there.” The franchise plans to expand heavily in Canada. While they still see opportunities in the west, Kaytor says, the largest focus is on Ontario and Eastern Canadian markets. Kaytor says traditionally Smitty’s does well in markets with populations of at least 10,000 people, but they certainly also like larger major centres. ”Larger centres like the greater Toronto area and the greater Vancouver area often have unique challenges such as higher occupancy costs and a larger number of competitors, but also offer a dense and diverse population to attract guests from,” he says. “In the right location, these Smitty’s franchises thrive.” Kaytor says ideally, the franchise wants people with experience in restaurants or past experience as business owners or managers. ”Genuine hospitality is something that you need to feel to understand,” he says, “and as one of our brand pillars, it’s important that our franchise owners know the feeling.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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

Collab Craze

From national campaigns to local community events, these franchises are using collaborations and partnerships to further brand awareness BY ALYSSA THULMANN

A core benefit of opening a franchised business is the access one gains to an established brand’s name recognition. Franchisees profit from the national marketing efforts of the larger franchise system, including partnerships and collaborations with other famous brands—and even celebrities. Here’s how three brands, Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), Pizza Nova and Wendy’s Canada, have capitalized on partnerships to market their products and pass on the advantages to their franchise owners.

Franchise Canada September | October 2026