Canadian Franchise 5#4

Your franchise runs better on Thryv.

Thryv software is designed to make it easy for you to manage your franchisees’ operations — all in one place.

With Hub by Thryv, running multi-location businesses has never been easier. Thryv gives you back hours in your day so you can:

View a single operational dashboard with real-time tracking and analytics across every location

Connect to apps you already use

Track revenue and performance of all locations

Standardize your brand, and drive consistency across all locations

Streamline communications and payments

And much more

With Thr y v ’s 24/7 support, you can’t go wrong. Learn more at Thryv.ca/franchise

president: colin Bradbury. colin@cgbpublishing.com

publisher: Vikki Bradbury. vikki@cgbpublishing.com

editorial department: editor@cgbpublishing.com

advertising: vikki@cgbpublishing.com jasonb@cgbpublishing.com

production: usaproduction@cgbpublishing.com

design: michelle@cgbpublishing.com

cgb publishing Victoria B.c www.canadianfranchisemagazine.com

This latest issue of Canadian Franchise Magazine we have some great advice and featured franchise systems for you to discover.

On The cover we have Freshslice Pizza, a proven name in the canadian pizza industry, who is continuing its bold expansion across canada and the Usa a truly unique franchising opportunity where a highly profitable 1-year rOi is not just possible but expected. You can read more about this on page 8.

Our regular experts are back to give you some great advice. Wayne Malliet, Founder and Franchise Management consultant, Franchise specialists, helps us to understand the disclosure document and agreement for you to make a fully informed business decision. david Banfield discusses why procrastination is not all bad and the advantages and downsides. andrew carter, regional Market Leader, BMO addresses the labour market in canadian franchising.

some of the featured brands this issue are sola salons where we sit down with Jordon Levine cOO and ask questions about the franchise and its success. Paris Baguette who launched in canada and has great expectations for 2024 and beyond. stagecoach Performing arts is committed to ensuring its entire international network remains connected and celebrated. MBi Brands who currently operate Mary Browns chicken, and Fat Bastard Burrito are proud to announce it has been certified by Great Place To Work. You can check out the contents pages for more information on some further articles in this issue.

One of our featured services this issue is Franchise hub who are profiled on pages 26 & 27. They offer a revolutionary tool designed to provide a world class franchise platform where entrepreneurs can connect with franchisors the smart way.

Our Latest news and additional featured franchises along with our popular a-Z directory are all a must read. i hope you enjoy this issue and always look forward to your comments.

happy reading

Vikki

8

Cover Story

8 Freshslice Pizza:

Franchisor in Depth

18 Laser Clincs Canada: introduces Five new Treatments

20 Just Junk: dealing with Winter

14

Snapshot

22 Studio Pilates: renowned studio Pilates international e xpands into canada with Three new Locations set to Open in spring

6

36

Q&A

14 Jordan Levine | Sola Salons

26 Franchise Hub: is the smart Way to help you

30 Paris Baguette: Launched in canada in 2023 to Much success, Prepares for continued Growth in 2024 and Beyond

Franchisee in Action

32 Stagecoach Performing Arts: celebrates canadian network during annual conference

Have Your Say

34 MB International Brands Inc. earns Great Place to Work® certification

Expert Advice

10 Wayne Maillet: disclosure document and agreement

16 David Banfield: Procrastination it’s not all Bad

24 Andrew Carter: addressing the Labour Market in canadian Franchising

28 Edward (Ned) Levitt and Richard Schuett: Buying into The american dream

pizza nova partners with SickKids Foundation for a second year

For Pizza Nova, supporting its local community has been a priority since its founding, 60 years ago, and is partnering with SickKids Foundation to raise funds for a second year in a row.

This holiday season, Pizza nova will offer its 60th-anniversary tote bag featuring the brand’s renowned “ciao” greeting, proceeds of which will go to sickKids Foundation. The tote bag is available for purchase in-store or online. The campaign aims to raise $15,000 for health and scientific advancements to improve the lives of children and their families in canada and worldwide. i n 2022, Pizza nova launched a memorable Vespa tree ornament, which attained its goal of raising the same amount.

Giving back to the community continues to be a core value for the company, deeply ingrained in its business ethos and customers’

values. While Pizza nova has worked for six decades to ensure customers “Taste the difference,” the company has equally strived to “Make a difference” within the community by giving back.

sickKids Foundation continues to make a difference in children’s lives through the evolution of pediatric care by launching Precision child health (Pch), a pivotal step towards its ‘heal the Future’ vision.

The company invites everyone to be part of this holiday event by visiting a local Pizza nova or www.pizzanova.com to purchase a tote bag that carries more than just goods but also renewed hope for children.

Dermaenvy skincare open S 11th clinic

Franchi S e in n ew Mina S , n S

DermaEnvy Skincare, a leading laser, skincare and medical aesthetics franchise in Canada, is excited to announce the grand opening of its eleventh clinic location in New Minas, Nova Scotia. The experienced local franchisees, Kelly and Jeff Doucet are opening their second clinic location, further expanding the brand’s presence in Atlantic Canada.

now with four locations in nova s cotia alone, d ermaenvy skincare has become a household name in the skincare industry in the region. The company’s steady growth has now seen it open a total of ten clinic locations across atlantic canada, and one location in Waterloo, Ontario with plans to expand in Ontario in 2024.

“We are excited to be welcoming our eleventh clinic to the brand and making our treatments more accessible to those in the annapolis Valley” said cohen Maci nnis, President of Wellness Brands canada i nc., franchisor of d ermaenvy skincare brand.

experienced multi-brand franchisees, Kelly and Jeff d oucet are behind the latest location in new Minas, ns after their success with the brand following the January 2020 purchase of a dartmouth, ns clinic “We are excited to bring the brand to new Minas and the annapolis Valley region” said Kelly d oucet. “We have seen continued growth both in the laser, skincare and medical aesthetics industries and in the d ermaenvy brand so we decided to expand our footprint.”

The new Minas, ns clinic located in a neighborhood plaza at 8934 commercial street will offer a range of laser, skincare and medical aesthetics treatments including laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, body contouring, clinical facials, peels and more.

For more info about DermaEnvy Skincare, o, please visit https://www.dermaenvy.com

tacotime canaDa i gnite S a Sizzling n ew e ra

Fresh off the heels of its 45th anniversary in 2023, TacoTime Canada is undergoing an evolutionary journey that will introduce Canadians to an updated look and experience with the beloved brand. With a focus on modernization, quality, and storytelling, TacoTime is poised to recapture the hearts and tastebuds of Canadians.

This eagerly anticipated brand transformation is already evident in TacoTime’s revamped online presence, which includes a newly reimagined website, dynamic social media channels, the recent launch of a dedicated app, and the introduction of a brand-new store design that is being rolled out across the country.

One thing that won’t change? TacoTime’s commitment to sourcing high quality, all- canadian ingredients in addition to preparing menu items like its original recipe hot sauces, crispy taco shells, taco chips, proteins, and edible salad bowls fresh in-house daily.

Ongoing efforts to retrofit existing locations with a sleek new store design are well underway and a steady stream

of new restaurant openings are slated for the coming year, underscoring TacoTime’s intention to pursue continued growth by bringing it signature Tex-Mex flavours to canadians from coast to coast. a foray into the world of food trucks with a charitable twist is also on the horizon for 2024 as TacoTime prepares to kick off an exciting new cross-country tour that will

bring a fresh sizzle to a number of local communities.

With a renewed sense of purpose propelling the brand into a new era of storytelling, community engagement, of course, an unparalleled taste experience, TacoTime canada will without a doubt be one to watch in 2024.

Laser cLinics canaDa opens newest medical aesthetics clinic at cF Markville – its seventh in canada, with an opening event to celebrate

Laser Clinics Canada, the world’s largest cosmetic clinics group, announces today the opening of its newest shopping centre location at CF Markville in Markham, Ontario. Set to open December 1, the 1,900 sq. ft. clinic represents Laser Clinics’ seventh location in Canada and aligns with its global company’s mission to provide clients with greater access to medical-grade advanced beauty services in the most convenient locations.

“We believe in helping more people feel confident in their own skin,” says Jenna caira, i nterim Managing director at Laser clinics canada. “since our launch in canada in February 2022, we’ve provided canadians market leading services and technology, offering laser hair removal, skin treatments and cosmetic

injectables. We look forward to being a part of the Markham community and expanding to even more markets in the year to come.”

Laser clinics canada has signed a ten-year lease at Markville shopping centre. To commemorate the clinic’s launch, a special opening event will kick off at 12 p.m. esT on d ecember 1 with an official ribbon cutting ceremony. customers visiting the clinic on opening day will enjoy exclusive offers and experiences including free Led treatment, free laser hair removal underarms treatment, complimentary inject consultations, a gift with purchase and a raffle to win one r evive and r epair Treatment.

Laser clinics canada invites patrons to get ready for the holiday season with special offers on skin Packages and cosmetic i njectables for glowing skin.

For more information on Laser Clinic Canada and its services, visit laserclinics.ca.

the 3-in-1 system

be your own boss with a freshLice franchise

Franchising Opportunities Available in the USA and Canada. Freshslice Pizza is now recruiting single-unit, multi-unit & Area Representatives.

freshslice pizza, a proven name in the canadian pizza industry, continues its bold expansion across canada and the usa. a truly unique franchising opportunity where a highly profitable 1-year roi is not just possible but expected. this is based on freshslice being the only franchise to offer:

• 0% royalty

• 0% ad fees

• 0% markup on ingredients

i t’s easy to see it’s a 100% Opportunity. i n fact, Freshslice has been recognized by ciO Global as a Top 10 finest franchise to own.

Freshslice is known for its commitment to partnership, productivity and efficiency, and they have effectively removed the barriers to entry, with only $60,000 liquid cash required.

“Freshslice strives to make this opportunity accessible to all entrepreneurs, so we have removed the barriers to entry, making this one of the best franchises to own in north america,” said r ay russel, Founder & ceO.

is freshsLice right for you?

For a partnership to last, both partners need to follow the same path. success is based on alignment of:

• The Freshslice Misson – caring about the Guest, Franchise Partners, the Planet and the Brand. Plus, support of Freshslice signature registered charity, Freshslice cares.

• The Freshslice Vision – to work towards the vision of becoming the “starbucks of Pizza”

• The Freshslice Values – Fresh and Friendly, every time!

• The Freshslice Culture – adhere to the culture of Partership, Productivity and efficiency

how to Join:

There is a simple but effective screening process that franchise partners go through including:

1. have a minimum of $60,000 liquid cash and entrepreneurial drive

2. a 20 minute pre-qualification

3. a 120 minute First i nterview

4. 60 minute preparation of a Business Plan

5. a 90 minute second i nterview

6. On the Job evaluation

what to expect?:

Use this business model to knock out the competition. Prepare for Greater financial freedom, more free time and contributing

to your community. Grow with Freshslice –the fastest Growing franchise in canada!

why Join freshsLice?

They have revolutionized the franchise industry, like ne TFLiX did to the video rental industry by almost removing the barrier to entry and accelerating the path to profitability.

Their business model delivers higher profits and lower investment compared through a diverse 3 in 1 business model including:

• Being known as the By the slice leader

• UnLiMiTed TOPPinGs at one price

• Offering delivery to your door

The low cost of entry and multiple revenue streams help deliver on a highly profitable 1 year rOi on investment - not just possible, but expected.

a common challenge in the industry is the amount of time and energy spent on dough preparation. Freshslice has a very unique system that includes 1000% Productivity in dough manufacturing. dough comes ready to each store, saving valuable labour time. Typical pizza franchises usually 25 XL doughs per staff. Freshslice staff can do 250 XL dough per hour. essentially 10x the production with less staff

Their partners also enjoy operational efficiency, including over 20 exclusively invented and designed equipment designed to enhance productivity and

streamline workflow for smaller spaces. They are the dealer of equipment of smallwares, buying directly from the manufacturer and selling to their partners at a great value.

Join the team:

i f you can do that plus deliver our Vision, Mission, culture, Values then we welcome you to take the baton and run with it.

Discover the path to franchise success!

Complete the form at www.investinfresh. com or call at 1-844-Freshslice.

DiscLosure Document & agreement

DiscLosure Document

disclosure documents are a summary of information on the franchisor, its executive and the franchise agreements. The document is provided to the prospective franchisee in order that they may make a more fully informed business decision. i n certain provinces in canada and throughout the states, franchisors are required by law to provide a disclosure document

to prospective franchisees. Other countries requiring disclosure documents include, but are not limited to Belgium, France, i taly, romania, spain, sweden, Brazil, china, Mexico, Malaysia and Korea. even if the disclosure document may not be legally required, many franchisors provide some form of a disclosure document in order to assist prospective franchisees with learning about the franchise opportunity.

i n the United states there are certain states, such as california, Wisconsin

and Minnesota, where the disclosure documents are filed and made available to the public through a government website. check in your prospective country to see if there is such a government site for filing disclosure documents. a lawyer specializing in franchising will be able to assist.

Franchisors have different application processes for perspective franchisees but will typically provide the disclosure document to you once you have been qualified as a potential franchisee and have

serious interest. i t is typically not a public document and is usually only available to potential franchisees. i n canada and the United states, it is required that the franchisor provide the disclosure document a minimum of 14 days prior to the prospective franchisee signing any franchise agreements or paying any funds. disclosure can be required to be as much as 30 days prior to signing the franchise agreement, as required in Mexico.

There will be occasions where a franchisor does not have a disclosure document. i f they are located outside of the required canadian provinces, they may refuse to give it or simply not have one because they are new. i n these instances, you will want to ensure you fully do your homework regarding the opportunity. Where a franchisor fails to provide proper disclosure within the jurisdictions where disclosure is legally required, you may have the ability to rescind the franchise agreement for up to two years from when the franchise was granted to you. You may be compensated for all losses you have incurred in acquiring, setting up and operating the franchise business.

The disclosure document must meet legislative requirements and disclose all material facts regarding the franchise opportunity and the franchisor’s history. There are required statements about risk and seeking legal and financial advice.

A typical table of contents of a disclosure document might read as follows:

• Corporate name of the franchisor

• Nature of the business

• Business experience of the directors and officers of the franchisor

• Previous convictions, civil actions, administrative proceedings, bankruptcies or liabilities of the franchisor, its directors, officers and associates

• Initial Investment required

• Other fees payable under the franchise agreement

• Estimate on working capital, annual operating costs

• Earning projections

Wayne Maillet is a franchise management consultant and founder of the consulting company Franchise Specialists. Respected within franchise circles, he brings a realistic, practical understanding of business and franchising. This article is based on excerpts from his book, Franchising Demystified The book can be ordered through most book retailers or directly from the publisher at www.franchisingdemystified.com.

• Training provided, with outline of initial training program

• Financing arrangements

• Assistance provided by the franchisor

• Franchisees’ obligations

• Marketing fund, use of marketing fund, past spending, projected spending

• Restrictions on what and to whom franchisees may sell

• Special licenses required

• Volume rebates and discount policies

• Obligations to participate in the actual operations of the franchised business

• Trademarks, patent and copyright information

• Territory

• Term, renewal, termination and transfer of the franchise

• Policies regarding dispute resolution

“ The disclosure document is only a summary of important information. You should study the franchise agreement in detail as this is ultimately the document you will be signing.”

In addition, the disclosure will have the following attachments:

• List of existing franchisees with contact information

• List of terminated, not renewed or cancelled franchisees with last known contact information

• Financial statements of the franchisor

• Franchise agreement

• Table of contents of the operations manual

• Certificate of franchisor signed by an officer of the company stating that all

material facts have been provided and that the information provided is true • A receipt to be signed and dated by the franchisee acknowledging receipt of the disclosure document.

franchise agreement

The disclosure document is only a summary of important information. You should study the franchise agreement in detail as this is ultimately the document you will be signing. have a lawyer with franchising experience review the disclosure document and franchise agreement so that he or she can ensure that it meets all legal requirements and that you understand what you are signing. also seek advice from your accountant and the bank to ensure that you can financially afford the investment. The bank may also request a copy of the disclosure document so that they can make an informed lending decision.

i f the franchisor is willing to negotiate significantly the terms of the franchise agreement, be concerned. Flexibility may be a sign of a franchisor needing to sell a franchise for cash flow. changing agreements significantly can affect the integrity of the entire franchise system. Franchising is based on uniformity.

Occasionally i see a business lawyer with no franchising experience review a franchise agreement and come back trying to change the entire agreement as well as the licensing relationship. The franchise agreement is a one-sided document in

favor of the franchisor. i t is intentionally written this way in order that the franchisor can protect the integrity of the brand and operating system. i f there is a franchisee that is damaging the brand’s reputation, the franchise agreement gives the franchisor the ability to take corrective action. This is in the interest of all the other franchisees. a one sided agreement in favor of the franchisor allows this to effectively happen.

do not be surprised by the fact that the franchise agreement will require you to sign a personal guarantee. This is a standard requirement in a franchise agreement. Franchisors are looking for a commitment from their franchisees. Provided you pay your bills, this should not be an issue for you. i f you simply refuse to sign a personal guarantee, this sends a message to the franchisor

that you may not be intending to pay your bills, which will justifiably raise concerns for the franchisor. Your legal and financial advisors, along with the franchisor, will all assist you in reviewing the documents and your obligations as a franchisee. The disclosure document is a valuable tool in assisting you in making a fully informed business decision.

franchise experience counts

i was recently working with a candidate who was looking to acquire a franchise from one of my franchise clients. i advised the

“ Occasionally I see a business lawyer with no franchising experience review a franchise agreement and come back trying to change the entire agreement as well as the licensing relationship.”

prospect to have the franchise agreement reviewed by a lawyer who had franchising experience. The candidate came back three weeks later with a review summary of the franchise agreement along with ten pages of proposed changes to the agreement that would make the agreement a twosided agreement rather than a one-sided one. i n discussions with the candidate, he confirmed that he had checked with the lawyer and the lawyer had claimed to have franchising experience. as i reviewed the pages of almost 40 proposed changes, it was clear that this lawyer did not understand the franchisee/franchisor relationship and that the changes could not be permitted.

This candidate was a great prospective franchisee who, regretfully, had been given some bad legal advice. although lawyers may claim to have franchising experience, they may not understand the franchise licensing relationship. i directed the candidate to consult another lawyer and gave him the name of three other lawyers to consult with who were specialists in franchising. With the help of another lawyer we were able to narrow down the ten pages to three or four points of clarification that we were able to address through an addendum to the franchise agreement.

You can find lawyers that specialize in franchising in canada through the canadian Franchise association website, www.cfa.ca. i n the United states, attorneys specializing in franchising can be found through the i nternational Franchise association (http:// www.franchise.org) under suppliers. By using a lawyer who specializes in franchising you will avoid having to pay for legal advice twice. v

KIRK ALLEN

KIRK ALLEN COO AND CO-FOUNDER

COO AND CO-FOUNDER

Starting his career at one of Canada's leading publishers, Canwest Global Communications Corporation followed by Postmedia Network Inc , Kirk realized that as consumer habits and digital media evolved, a need for digital insight and an innovative approach would be the key to his client’s long-term success With the industry moving frustratingly slow to adapt around him and the changing needs of consumers a top priority, Reshift was born and with his leadership, quickly cemented itself as a digital leader

Starting his career at one of Canada's leading publishers, Canwest Global Communications Corporation followed by Postmedia Network Inc , Kirk realized that as consumer habits and digital media evolved, a need for digital insight and an innovative approach would be the key to his client’s long-term success With the industry moving frustratingly slow to adapt around him and the changing needs of consumers a top priority, Reshift was born and with his leadership, quickly cemented itself as a digital leader

STEVE BUORS

STEVE BUORS

CEO AND CO-FOUNDER

CEO AND CO-FOUNDER

Steve has over two decades of digital marketing experience and has earned a reputation for being on top of emerging trends in social, search and mobile solutions Throughout his career in the new media sector, Steve always centered his focus on providing fantastic service to his clients, helping them adopt new technology to drive their business forward - something that continues to be a key differentiator for Reshift With a focus on the digital demands of his clients and staying “current,” a top priority, his innovative approach continues to be a key factor in driving brands forward

Steve has over two decades of digital marketing experience and has earned a reputation for being on top of emerging trends in social, search and mobile solutions Throughout his career in the new media sector, Steve always centered his focus on providing fantastic service to his clients, helping them adopt new technology to drive their business forward - something that continues to be a key differentiator for Reshift With a focus on the digital demands of his clients and staying “current,” a top priority, his innovative approach continues to be a key factor in driving brands forward

ABOUT RESHIFT MEDIA INC.

ABOUT RESHIFT MEDIA INC.

Reshift Media is a digital marketing company specializing in helping multi-location businesses such as the franchise, retail and food services. Founded in 2010, the 100% Canadian-owned business has helped more than 200 brands in 22 countries find their footing in the digital space. Through their extensive experience with businesses worldwide, their team is comprised of sought-after experts in franchise marketing, social media, search, software, and website development

Reshift Media is a digital marketing company specializing in helping multi-location businesses such as the franchise, retail and food services. Founded in 2010, the 100% Canadian-owned business has helped more than 200 brands in 22 countries find their footing in the digital space. Through their extensive experience with businesses worldwide, their team is comprised of sought-after experts in franchise marketing, social media, search, software, and website development

Celebrating 10 years helping the franchise community grow and thrive, Reshift Media has cemented itself as the leading digital marketing agency for franchise companies in Canada

Celebrating 10 years helping the franchise community grow and thrive, Reshift Media has cemented itself as the leading digital marketing agency for franchise companies in Canada

Among the company's accolades, Reshift Media boasts the creation of two proprietary software platforms: Social Brand Amplifier and Brand Amplifier, each designed specifically for franchise and other multi-location businesses. They were also named top supplier to the franchise industry by the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) in 2019.

Among the company's accolades, Reshift Media boasts the creation of two proprietary software platforms: Social Brand Amplifier and Brand Amplifier, each designed specifically for franchise and other multi-location businesses They were also named top supplier to the franchise industry by the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) in 2019.

URL: WWW.RESHIFTMEDIA.COM

URL: WWW.RESHIFTMEDIA.COM

@RESHIFTMEDIAINC.

@RESHIFTMEDIAINC.

Q&a with JorDAn LEvInE,

coo, s ola s alons

Describe your organisation – how long has it been in operation? when did you start franchising? how many franchisees do you currently have?

sola salons was established in 2004 with the opening of its first location in denver, colorado. We began franchising in 2005 and expanded internationally into canada in 2022. now with 700 locations open across the U.s. and canada and

160 franchisees, sola is proud to provide beautiful, fully equipped salon studios to more than 20,000 independent beauty professionals.

what is your main product/ service?

sola offers beauty professionals the freedom and benefits of salon ownership without the risk and overhead of opening a traditional salon. sola provides hairdressers, estheticians, nail techs, massage therapists and other like-minded beauty professionals with private studio suites alongside the support and tools they need to launch their salon business as independents.

what type of person would ‘fit’ your franchisee profile?

There are a few key traits we look for in potential franchisees. We look for individuals that have capital and business acumen. While it’s not required, a lot of our franchisees have a background in franchising which gives them an advantage when opening their own franchise. We also look for people who are interested in creating a culture, not just the financial profit that comes with opening a franchise. sola franchisees need to have a sense of care for their independent beauty professionals and passion for supporting each professional in their respective careers. Opening a sola is more than just an investment, it becomes a passion.

where are your current locations/territories? where are locations/territories available?

sola salons currently has 695 locations across the United states, and 5 locations in canada. Our canadian locations include Toronto, Oakville, Mississauga, calgary, and Oshawa. We are actively targeting all provinces and territories across canada for additional development.

why is there a need for this product/service? why are you different to your competition?

There will always be a need for beauty and wellness services amongst consumers, especially with remote work positions

continuing to stay relevant, and current research showing no signs of the industry slowing down. at sola, we offer customized, individual experiences for our guests. and for our independent beauty professionals we offer the unique opportunity to have ownership over every aspect of their business, from salon design to pricing and business hours.

how do you look after your franchisees? e.g. what support/ training/back up do you offer?

at sola, we strive to empower franchise owners with opportunities, mentorship, and education. as part of these efforts, sola hosts an annual summit where franchise owners and corporate employees from across the country come together to participate in an array of breakout sessions, discuss industry trends and the trajectory of the business, receive recruiting and retention education and best practices, among many other topics and seminars.

i n addition to our annual summit, we also conduct regional meetings, monthly network calls and new franchise training on sales and Operations. each franchisee has a dedicated Franchise Business consultant who works closely with sola franchisees daily to support with any business need.

Our Franchise Business consultants also hold monthly coaching calls.

plans for new systems/concepts in 2024.

2023 was a big year of innovation for sola. We launched an online education system for new franchisees and managers; newer, advanced pricing tools; a fresh brand and construction design for new locations; an integrated toolkit for franchisees looking to refresh their locations; and last, but certainly not least, a new website! But 2024 will also see some great new tools and systems.

i n the coming year we will launch sola University, a dedicated business education platform for our 20,000 sola stylists. We will also be launching a new internal system for our franchisees called sola connect – this will bring together roughly a dozen external systems into one login where a franchisee can conduct all aspects of their business.

where do you see the franchise in the next five years?

While a large part of sola’s growth has been through existing franchisees, we’re still in search of new franchisees to enter our system – particularly in canada. We see incredible white space still available in prime markets for both the U.s. and canada.

so, even though we have 700 locations open today, the next 5 years will be truly transformational for the sola brand. We will continue to innovate the look and the feel of the brand and find inventive ways to bring down the cost of construction – which we feel sets us apart from the competition and allows us to dominate the salon suite category in franchising.

what is your advice for those exploring franchise opportunities?

There is no industry as exciting as franchising! Franchising is all about harnessing a dream of business ownership – a place where you can be your own boss and take control of your life. But the added benefit of franchising is that you don’t have to do it alone. You have a brand behind you and a team that has a vested interest in seeing your success. My advice for someone exploring a franchise opportunity is to do your research – find a brand that resonates with your values and your passions. and once you find that brand, ask all the right questions about economics. i f you have the passion and the math pencils out… jump! i have heard story after story of people that missed their opportunity on a brand.

how do you motivate your franchisees?

Motivation starts with engagement. Franchisees are the reason we exist, so they need to be included in decisions and have access to information. Job one is establishing a true Franchise advisory Board that works with the team to set annual priorities and drive projects. We also use working groups that engage franchisees beyond the FaB to provide insight on projects and key decisions. and we pride ourselves on strong communication. That’s never easy in franchising, but we do our best to keep everyone engaged with weekly updates, monthly webinars, regular in-field regional meetings, and ongoing support from our Franchise Business consultants. everything we do is designed to provide engagement and transparency, and that’s reflected in consistently high franchisee satisfaction scores. Our teams take great pride in these results. v

ProCr AStInAtIon it’s

not all bad!

we are rapidly approaching yet another year’s end. as we approach the new year, we tend to think about new year resolutions and how we will make things better in our lives in the year ahead.

Unfortunately, new Year resolutions are often well-meaning but not realistic and actionable. even those that start well often run out of steam very quickly and become just a memory with good intentions; there is always next year.

Putting things off until the new year has been a trait that we have adopted over the years. is there some magic in starting something new or re-starting a project in the new year? The answer is no, but the

David Banfield has spent several decades engaged in the franchise industry, most recently as President of a multi-national brand. Currently he is working with emerging brands, applying an extensive background in financial services/franchising to assist emerging organisations/franchisors achieve the gaols ahead of schedule. www.linkedin.com/in/davidbanfieldifg/

“ Procrastination can be a positive factor when used in conjunction with a timeline to reach a specific goal.”

new year certainly creates a marker and a project date to aim for.

When we think of individuals with an entrepreneurial flair, we invariably think of people who are self-starters, highly motivated, and individuals with a very positive outlook. While that may be true of some entrepreneurs, it may not apply to most would-be entrepreneurs.

Many such individuals use the ‘new year’ as their marker for starting a new business, a business that has often been in the making for some time, perhaps it is even a business plan resurrected from last year that didn’t get off the drawing board last year. While many have a start-up date in mind and the new year is the focal point, very few will start their new venture in the early months; there will always be a reason or many reasons why one can and should delay any positive action. as we say, there is always next year!

Procrastination will win the day, and the project will be shelved for another year or two. does this automatically mean that procrastination is a bad thing? is it holding entrepreneurs back and stifling their creative abilities? naturally, there are answers that are for and against such an argument.

Perhaps one of the most persuasive arguments for putting things off for a year or less is that the individual is not ready to launch a new venture. starting any business requires planning and in-depth research. i f that is not completed, it makes little sense to press ahead with a business opportunity lacking a solid business plan and marketing plan that has been built on solid research and facts.

Putting off the research and due diligence is another matter for the serious individual; while a new year deadline to start a business may not be realistic, a timeline should always be established, determining when the research will be complete and enabling rational decisions to be made as to the potential starting date or otherwise should the research indicate that a start-up is not feasible.

Procrastination can be a positive factor when used in conjunction with a timeline to reach a specific goal. similarly, procrastination may well be appropriate if an individual does not feel mentally attuned to a start-up business. not being ready with research completed and a positive mindset is a good reason to delay moving forward until such time as all the components fall into place. creating unrealistic deadlines often increases an individual’s stress level. starting any new business will bring its own stress elements without adding to the score with self-imposed deadlines and conditions.

There are circumstances where a delayed approach can be a positive factor, and putting things off for the time being is the right thing to do. The procrastination approach should, however, be coupled with a realistic timeline for moving forward.

There are justifiable reasons for taking a delayed approach, but there are also strong reasons why putting things off without a definitive start-up plan can harm the venture once it finally launches.

The lost opportunity aspect is probably one of the main issues contributing to that detrimental effect. i f research shows that a specific time is the right launch time, but the would-be entrepreneur chooses to delay the start for whatever reason, then

it is possible that the venture will miss out on the opportunity that that time afforded. Often, there are time slots that, when exploited, can be truly beneficial in the growth cycle of any business. To benefit from such cycles, one needs to be operational and able to take advantage of market conditions that have been determined to be favorable for a start-up. Missed opportunities can have severe repercussions on the livelihood of the entrepreneur and their business overall. i f a new business is entering a market that historically is cyclical with predictable ups and downs, then waiting for the next upcycle may be justifiable. Finding the right market niche and time frame is essential for all entrepreneurs so procrastination can be a plus and a minus in the timing equation.

clearly, there is no simple answer as to whether procrastination is good or bad. delaying a business startup, as an example, may leave the business owner in a more favorable position to build the business structure, hire and train personnel, and ensure that adequate finances are in place to cover the start-up period and the inevitable contingencies that will arise that have not been budgeted.

Getting all the pieces in place before getting started makes sense, but the other side of the argument is how long it takes to get them together and at what cost. h indsight is perfect, but we rarely can re-play events and take advantage of hindsight.

Finding the right mix of doing things today or tomorrow is part of the real key to success, but more importantly, it is not just determining when the right time is but putting your plan into action at that right time. When it comes to starting a business, procrastination clearly has serious advantages, and similarly, it has a severe potential downside.

i f you are prone to procrastination, then at least make it work for you, ensuring that if you put things off it is for the right reasons and that you get back on track once the adverse conditions have passed. v

L ASEr CLInICS CAnADA

introduces five new treatments

Laser clinics, the world’s largest cosmetic clinics group, announces the launch of five new treatments available at its six locations in the toronto and ottawa regions.

“We are committed to bringing the latest innovations in advanced beauty and related services to our customers,” says Jenna caira, interim managing director at Laser clinics canada. “These new treatments will help more people feel confident in their own skin and make advanced beauty treatments more accessible to canadians.”

The new treatments include cosmetic injectables, skin treatments and laser hair removal.

Lips to Love, an injectable treatment designed to refresh, lift and add symmetry, volume and structure, while providing a rejuvenated, youthful and natural appearance.

h yperhidrosis Management helps people who suffer from overactive sweat glands. This treatment helps to temporarily block chemical signals of the glands resulting in decreased sweat production.

Female hollywood Brazilian is a new

laser hair reduction treatment for the full Brazilian. i ncludes everything inside of a standard thong underwear.

revive and repair packages, exclusive to Laser clinics canada, are tailored treatments that gently exfoliate, heal, and hydrate for overall skin rejuvenation. These packages offer three services in a single treatmentMicrodermabrasion, Led Light Therapy, and a skinstitut™ Quick-Fix sheet Mask, tailored to your skin needs.

Platelet-rich Plasma i njections (PrP) is a three-step medical treatment in which a person’s blood is drawn, processed, and then injected into the scalp. The PrP helps to stimulate hair follicles which then helps growth. available as of the end of november, PrP injections require lifelong treatment to ensure effectiveness.

Dr. Waqqas Jalil, Laser Clinics Canada’s Medical Director, Shameeza Kassamali, Head of Inject at Laser Clinics Canada and Caitlin Chisholm, Technical Trainer at Laser Clinics Canada at the opening of Laser Clinics Canada’s sixth Canadian location at Union Station in Toronto, Ontario, September 20, 2023.

Laser clinics canada offers market leading treatments, which are overseen by a Medical advisory committee including dr. Waqqas Jalil, Laser clinics canada’s Medical director.

“We are excited to be able to launch these new, innovative treatments to our customers, while always keeping the safety of our customers as the number one priority,” says dr. Jalil.

Laser clinics entered the canadian market in February 2022 and currently has six

locations in Ontario. These locations include h illcrest Mall in richmond h ill, square One in Mississauga, sherway Gardens in etobicoke, scarborough Town centre in scarborough, rideau centre in Ottawa, and Union station in downtown Toronto. all locations will offer the new treatments. v

ABoUt tHE L ASEr CLInICS GroUP

With more than 200 clinics worldwide, Laser Clinics Group is the global leader in advanced beauty treatments and skincare.

Now in Canada and with plans for national expansion, the company democratizes the field of advanced beauty by offering Canadians greater accessibility to an extensive range of best-in-class treatments and services using medical-grade, industry-leading technology.

Laser Clinics tailors treatments to the individual and ensures all clients achieve their desired results. Together, the company’s more than 1,600 professionals focus on long-term, ongoing services which reflects a true longstanding and deep relationship with their customers.

Learn more at laserclinics.ca or follow #BeautyTailoredToYou.

d ealing with w inter... JUStJUnK have you covered

the period from november to february poses a chilly set of circumstances for JustJunk®, a national franchisor in the junk removal industry. the winter slowdowns spanning from one coast to another necessitates significant strategic planning to navigate the fluctuating temperatures and varying snowfall levels across the country.

This not only hampers canadians’ ability to gather their unwanted items for removal, but oftentimes restricts access to properties for removals. Merely understanding seasonal curves isn’t always sufficient; identifying areas of flexibility can swiftly transform a winter downturn into a success.

“ Merely understanding seasonal curves isn’t always sufficient; identifying areas of flexibility can swiftly transform a winter downturn into a success.”

each business experiences its distinct version of seasonality, whether it involves surges in activity, lulls or even complete seasonal closures. For the burgeoning junk removal industry, it finds itself in a unique position. i n the minds of many canadians, numerous outdoor, home and garden-related businesses are perceived to be closed during the winter. similarly, professionals in real estate, such as realtors and movers, encounter comparable winter slowdowns. This is due to people being averse to the challenges of moving during the winter when real estate markets tend to cool. Finally, junk removal services are sometimes mistakenly categorized under the same umbrella.

however, the disposal of junk isn’t confined to specific seasons. The arrival of christmas brings an abundance of ‘junk’ that people are eager to eliminate. recognizing that the demand for junk removal persists, albeit at a reduced level, JUsTJUnK® decided to operate year-round.

i n the n iagara region, Mike Thorne, Founder and ceO of JUsTJUnK®, chose to navigate the winters, as opposed to shutting down operations. he commenced sustained marketing and advertising initiatives that were instrumental in conveying to people that junk removal was not exclusive to warm summer days; it could effectively address their needs,

even in the cold weather, a season where customers may avoid removing junk themselves.

i n the 2010s, when the decision to expand the business through franchising arose, Thorne aimed to transplant his strategy of managing seasonality into the respective markets in canada. The successful model established in the n iagara region involved consistently marketing and advertising while adapting to fluctuations in demand.

nationwide, Thorne took the lead in devising an approach to seasonal staffing. he says, “i t’s crucial for all franchise systems to implement revenue-generating initiatives during the offseason slowdown. The process of laying off, rehiring and retraining employees is a costly endeavour for all parties involved.”

While the JUsTJUnK® head office plays a strategic role in the comprehensive marketing and advertising efforts alongside its seasoned franchise owners, distinct operational challenges have merged at the local level due to seasonality.

For instance, halifax, being susceptible to intense weather events, felt the impact of hurricane Lee earlier in 2023. While the n iagara region is no stranger to harsh winters, franchises in sault ste. Marie, Kingston, Ottawa, edmonton and calgary often contend with earlier and heavier snowfalls than the milder Golden horseshoe. They necessitate the formulation of earlier and more meticulous strategies for success.

deb darbyshire, Owner and Operator of JUsTJUnK® calgary, and her team have invested considerable time and effort in developing tactics and strategies to enhance working conditions, ensuring operational continuity during frigid winters.

“all employees are outfitted in weather and temperature-appropriate uniforms, with clear instructions to wear thermals underneath for effective layering,” says darbyshire. “We provide boot and hand warmers for temperatures of -20°c and below, facilitating a smoother transition for the teams when moving between the cold outdoors and the warm interiors of homes.”

“ The arrival of Christmas brings an abundance of ‘junk’ that people are eager to eliminate. Recognizing that the demand for junk removal persists, albeit at a reduced level, JUSTJUNK® decided to operate year-round.”

Operationally, darbyshire and her team only need to make minor adjustments to their routine. she explains, “all trucks undergo stringent morning checks to ensure fluids and tires are at expected levels – a policy followed by all JUsTJUnK® franchises, but particularly crucial in colder climate markets. Unlike the old days when trucks needed to be heated up for 30 minutes before heading out, our trucks are now stored in the shop overnight.”

Furthermore, in preparation for their trucks navigating inclement weather, darbyshire explains that her trucks are equipped with shovels, sand and plywood to address challenges in the field.

“We always advise customers of potential delays due to weather conditions,” says darbyshire. “My team’s safety is always a priority, and i will always accommodate team requests to make their lives easier if they are overwhelmed by weather concerns.”

But the marketing and advertising strategies don’t really change, outside of reductions as there are normally less trucks out in the winter.

“Last year, we ran a winter sale to encourage

people to book their junk removal needs during the winter months, aiming to keep team members employed,” says darbyshire. “i t’s not fair to them that the weather conditions should impact business. We strive to convey the message of, ‘We are still operational, and you can still get rid of all your stuff.’”

While a larger market slowdown might only require operational adjustments due to a sustained demand, Jason Biggar, Owner of sault ste. Marie JUsTJUnK®, approaches the smaller market of sault ste. Marie proactively.

“Winter months are a perfect time to strengthen relationships with commercial clients and introduce our services to potential new clients” says Biggar. “We view the winter season as an opportunity to plan for the upcoming spring and summer season, including human resources aspects, like bonus structures and schedules, and tweaking training or operational procedures.”

establishing robust relationships within the business community is crucial, as emphasized by Thorne, darbyshire and Biggar. additionally, the turnover or cleaning out of equipment services to fill the void during the slow season. v

Deb Darbyshire

Jason Biggar

renowneD stuDio piLates internationaL expanDs into canaDa with three new Locations set to open in spring

globally acclaimed fitness brand studio pilates international (spi) is thrilled to announce its expansion into canada, with three studios on track and set to be open by spring. spi is poised to bring its unique blend of dynamic reformer pilates workouts and expert instruction to fitness enthusiasts in Langley, british columbia, richmond hill ontario, and vaughan ontario.

This expansion will mark the brands presence in 6 countries globally and is committed to delivering high-quality reformer Pilates classes that combine traditional techniques with modern exercise science. sPi has a focus on client inclusivity and caters to individuals of all fitness

levels, from beginners right through to experienced practitioners.

These reserved locations in Langley, richmond h ill, and Vaughan mark an exciting step for the brand’s global expansion and join the current network in australia, new Zealand, The UK, The UK & china. each of these state-of-the-art studios will offer a welcoming and inclusive environment, featuring state-of-the-art equipment and world class instructors who are dedicated to empowering clients on their fitness journey.

“studio Pilates is a premium product and unlike anything else on the market, which is why i

believe this is a huge opportunity to spearhead the canadian market and really make an impact. studio Pilates combines state-of-the-art audio visual technology,

luxurious studio finishes, effective and transformative workouts and world-class instructors, to provide an exceptional client experience that keeps clients happy, classes full and studios profitable,” says studio Pilates co-Founder Jade Winter.

The spring openings of these new locations coincide with the perfect timing for individuals seeking to revitalize their fitness routines and embrace a healthier lifestyle.

The brand’s expansion into canada will mark presence in 6 countries and underscores its philosophy to change the way the world works out by making reformer Pilates more accessible to individuals across the globe.

For more information about Studio Pilates International and its Canadian expansion, please contact Director of Franchising John L Scott: joinus@studiopilates.com

aDDressing the Labour market in canaDian franchising

the canadian franchise industry continues to be a committed and thriving sector that encompasses a diverse range of businesses. with franchises spanning various sectors such as food and beverage, retail, and services, the industry offers numerous employment opportunities; imagine all the different franchise employees you interact with on a daily or weekly basis.

Franchisees face staffing challenges in supporting the day-to-day operations of individual units. Franchisors must hire and manage the appropriate personnel of the various head office departments that support the franchise network. While franchisors are cautioned from providing too much support on human resource

needs with their franchisees to avoid common-employer situations, there is a definite connection between the corporate labour force and the long-term success of the brand.

Branding is key to the success of any franchise, and employees play a crucial role in upholding and promoting the franchise brand. Building a strong employer brand that highlights the unique benefits of working within their system is a great starting point. i n fact, both head office and franchised employees can be excellent ambassadors, representing the brand online through various social media channels. When employees act as ambassadors, they bring an authenticity to the entire network as consumers increasingly turn to digital channels to engage with brands. This can help to promote the company image and influence public perception of the brand. This engagement should include emphasizing career growth opportunities, training programs, and a positive work

culture. Franchise owners should instill a strong sense of brand identity among their employees, empowering them to embody the brand values in their interactions with customers. Both franchisee and franchisor employees who align with the brand contribute to a consistent customer experience, enhancing the franchise’s reputation and market position.

Proper recruitment ensures the right fit for both the franchisee and the franchisor which is vital for maintaining operational efficiency and profitability. as a corporate entity, franchisors should have established recruitment processes in place to attract talented individuals who align with the brand’s values and vision. Franchisees should also form their own, unique processes and have the benefit of communicating with other franchise partners to understand what effective recruitment strategies and best practices may exist throughout the rest of the network. These strategies could include:

- advertising positions through multiple channels to attract a diverse pool of candidates.

- Utilizing job platforms, industry-specific websites, and social media platforms to reach potential applicants.

- collaborating with recruitment agencies to streamline the process and access a broader network of prospective employees.

- specific industries or trades may allow for collaboration with local educational institutions through internships, co-op program or apprenticeships.

- i ncentivizing current employees for referrals.

Often over-looked, both franchisors and franchisees should examine opportunities to hire persons with disabilities which helps create an inclusive workforce that benefits everyone.

Once hired, don’t underestimate how the on-boarding and training processes can prepare employees for success and longer retention. setting them up in a comprehensive training program that equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles will help improve productivity and work satisfaction. some franchisors will require all new corporate employees to spend time with an existing franchisee or in a franchised unit as part of their training. This experience provides context to the new employee and adds a higher level of engagement between franchisee and franchisor. as employees earn seniority,

emphasizing on-going, continuous learning and development can foster a motivated and skilled workforce, benefiting both the employees and the entire franchise network.

employee retention is a top priority for all franchises. Performance reviews are integral to monitoring employee performance, identifying strengths and areas for improvement, and establishing goals. Both franchisors and franchisees should consider conducting regular performance reviews to evaluate employee contributions and provide feedback. Franchisors who also conduct brand compliance checks on individual franchise units have a great opportunity to provide recognition to the franchisee and their staff.

developing performance-based bonus plans can be an effective way to reward exceptional employee contributions, even at the individual unit level. These plans should be transparent, measurable, and tied to specific goals or key performance indicators (KPis). Profit-sharing programs are designed to incentivize employees, align their interests with the success of the franchise, and reward commitment. By sharing the financial rewards, employees feel valued and motivated to contribute to the franchise’s growth. Profit sharing and performance bonuses can be implemented at both the franchisee and franchisor level to based on the specific goals and the

financial capacity of the company.

employee engagement initiatives such as team-building activities, recognition programs, and regular communication channels can help foster a sense of belonging, boost morale, and create a positive work environment. advisory councils are an elected group of franchisees that speak for the larger group on issues and concerns within the network. similar groups are often formed at the franchise unit level with elected employees who meet regularly with the goal of providing feedback to the franchisee and create a productive and inclusive work environment. recognizing the importance of work-life balance and flexible scheduling options with the ability to manage their personal commitments can significantly contribute to both corporate and franchise job satisfaction and overall well-being.

While the labour market in the canadian economy will always ride a roller coaster of performance and results, the franchise industry is well-positioned to continue being a major employer across the country. Both franchisors and franchisees have many tools and strategies at their disposal for effective recruitment and retention. By prioritizing these aspects, franchises can attract and retain talented individuals, ensuring the success and growth of their network. v

Andrew Carter, Regional Market Leader for BMO, has been working with franchisees his entire career. His career has spanned from the Franchise side to the Finance side. His strong operational background complements his financing knowledge, providing holistic advice to all franchising situations.

Fr AnCHISEHUB is the smart way to help you research and buy franchise businesses across c anada

if the world of franchises seems tricky to navigate, there’s a new interactive platform that simplifies the process, making it much easier and enjoyable to make your franchise ownership dreams a reality.

Franchise hub is a revolutionary tool designed to provide a world class franchise platform where entrepreneurs can connect with franchisors the smart Way seeking any Franchise, anywhere. Their advanced ai matchmaking system is fast becoming the leading online resource for franchise opportunities.

search for your dream franchise or business

Franchisehub’s interactive website can get you started on your franchise journey; whether you’re looking to buy a business or franchise. The platform’s unique offerings like its Business Plan option easily maps out a simple business plan that can help show your return on investment after one year. Franchisehub’s Loan calculator can also help give you everything you need to know

about paying back your business loan, including how long it will take and interest rates.

also, you can compare which franchise you want to purchase with Franchisehub’s comparison Tool to give you a detailed breakdown of each business’s total expenses, so you can pick which is best for you.

take the steps to be your own boss

Once you’ve found the franchise that works for you, you can easily schedule a call by using Franchisehub’s appointment scheduler service, where you can request a meeting when convenient for you.

i t’s these handy tools that are quickly pushing Franchisehub as the go-to tool for all things franchises across the country.

better roi (return on investment) for franchisors

Franchisors can benefit from advertising options to suit all their franchising needs. as a Franchisor, rather than spending large amounts of money promoting your franchising business, enjoy much lower

and competitive listing fees because of Franchisehub’s buying and advertising power to find better leads, and more informed buyers.

Whether you want a simple listing, or want to take advantage of premium promotional opportunities, they can help you choose the right lead generation package. Franchisehub has already partnered with some world class brands including Waves coffee, control V, Freshslice Pizza & sobik’s subs in the Us and more.

already have a business?

i f you already have a business and want to sell, we can help with that too. Or are you ready to turn your successful business into a powerful franchise? Look no further than Franchisehub consulting, your premier partner in turning your business into a successful franchise model. We understand the complexities and challenges involved in franchising, which is why we offer a comprehensive suite of services to guide you through every step of the process.

no matter if you are a seasoned franchise entrepreneur or a first timer, Franchisehub is the tool you need to gather all your information and purchase (or sell) a franchise. i t does all the hard work for you, leaving the only thing left to do is dream of your future successes!

Franchisehub.ca has all you need to learn more, research businesses, or host franchises for sale.

Visit Franchisehub.ca, where innovation meets opportunity, and shape the future of franchising together.

i f you prefer to visit us in person, visit them at the Franchisehub booth at upcoming expos in canada and the Us for a special in-person experience. v

BUYInG Into tHE AMErICAn DrEAM

in the world of franchising, canada occupies a unique position. geographically, we share a common border with the u.s. franchise behemoth, as does mexico, but canadians are more like americans than any other people on the planet.

This means that american franchise successes are more likely to be repeated in canada than anywhere else. With that promise of success, for decades many canadians have sought out and invested

in U.s. franchises; some have achieved incredible results (witness the success of Mcdonalds’s canada) and some have truly struggled (think Olive Garden’s inability to overtake canadian staples like the Keg, or Krispy Kreme’s relative lack of success when compared to canadians’ beloved Tim horton’s).

There are so many reasons why one such franchise investment succeeds and another fails that it would take at least a book, if not several, to do justice to the question. however, what follows is a brief look at some of the most common and arguably

obvious factors that spell the difference between success and failure.

will the concept work in canada?

While we canadians look, dress and talk (sort of!) like americans, there are some real differences in our cultures and buying habits. The problem is, however, these differences are not obvious. Which means canadian franchise investors and, for that matter, U.s. franchisors, often make assumptions about the canadian market that are not true or not true enough.

Foregoing a sufficiently thorough market study for the concept in canada is like operating a piece of heavy equipment blindfolded. Local knowledge may lead to the investment being rejected or the concept being adapted properly for the canadian market. either way, the potential investor comes out a winner.

Edward (ned) levitt is a senior partner of Dickinson Wright LLP, Toronto, Canada. He served as General Counsel to the Canadian Franchise Association from 2000 to 2007 and, as a member of the Ontario Franchise Sector Working Team, was instrumental in the creation of Ontario’s franchise legislation. Among his many publications is Canadian Franchise Legislation published by Butterworths/LexisNexis.

Mr. levitt can be reached at 416-646-3842 or nlevitt@ dickinsonwright.com.

can the u.s. franchisor support the system in canada?

i n most cases, one of the principal reasons for buying the rights to a U.s. concept, is to acquire the know-how in that business by capitalizing on the franchisor’s experience and knowledge gained over many years and with much investment. sounds good! But if the U.s. franchisor does not have a sufficient infrastructure to provide the critical and inevitably needed support to the canadian investor, all of that great knowledge will be of little value. This should lead to an examination of the franchisors capabilities to support the canadian expansion, at least in the early years.

is there enough capital?

a canadian expansion of a U.s. franchise system, is, in many ways, a startup. Of course, with the know-how of the franchisor, it is much further along than a brand new business concept, but the need for working capital will be significant while the business is being established in canada. The canadian investor will have to fund the initial payments for the rights to the U.s franchisor, staffing costs, professional fees, initial marketing costs, possibly building costs or sub-franchise selling costs and then living expenses for the investor until a positive cash flow is achieved. The root cause for failure can often be traced to the lack of adequate capital, which in turn often results from inadequate information provided by the franchisor on the magnitude of the needed capital. This problem is most common where the U.s franchisor is more interested in “closing” a deal than making the right deal with the right party.

Richard s chuett is an associate of Dickinson Wright LLP, Toronto, Canada. His practice primarily focuses on franchising, commercial transactions, and commercial leasing.

Mr. s chuett can be reached at 416-646-6879 or R s chuett@dickinsonwright.com.

Does the Deal make sense?

a good concept with a bad deal for the investor, still ends up in failure. i t is very common for canadian investors to purchase master franchise rights from U.s. franchisors for parts of canada or for the entire country. Master franchising means the canadian investor will be selling sub-franchises and sharing the revenue from those sub-franchises with the U.s franchisor, i.e. initial franchise fees, royalties, renewal fees and transfer fees. Problems arise when the shared portions of such fees do not match up with the cost of delivering the services upon which the fees are based. i f, for example, on a 6% royalty rate it takes 4% to support the system properly in canada (which is not unrealistic) and the U.s. franchisor demands 3% of the 6% as its cut, then disaster is lurking just around the corner.

One of the most difficult numbers to ascertain in all of franchising is the amount that should be paid for the front-end franchise fee or territorial rights fee for the grant of master franchise rights. This number will be influenced by many factors, including the length of the term of the grant, the history of success of the franchise system, the amount of training and initial support to be provided by the franchisor and the level of additional investment required of the franchisee. drawing analogies to other existing systems, with master structures, can be helpful in deciding upon the amount to charge, but it is best to relate the fee to the potential for profit and return on capital of both parties. i n one survey , of the master franchisees studied, 36% invested $100,000 to $250,000, 28% invested less than $100,000, 21% invested $250,000 to $500,000 and 17% invested more than $500,000,000.

another very common mistake made in master franchise deals is with the establishment of unrealistic quotas on the opening schedule of units. according to one study out of 142 restaurant master franchisees only 55 were in business at the end of the development term, 21 master franchisees did not open a single unit and 6 master franchisees met or exceeded their development commitments. i t is important to agree on clear growth (and unit maintenance) targets for the master franchisee. On the other hand, most targets in master franchise arrangements are not met.

other matters

some other important considerations are:

1. is the term of the master franchise agreement sufficiently long to ensure that a reasonable return on investment can be achieved?

2. Will the master franchisee have to adhere strictly to the franchisor’s form of unit franchise agreement in all circumstances or will there be some flexibility?

3. Will the master franchisee administer a regional advertising fund for the territory or will it all be controlled by the franchisor?

4. i f there are critical inventory items, who supplies them to the franchisees, the master franchisee, the franchisor or third parties and who benefits from volume purchases?

conclusion

There is lots more to consider, but this is a good start. v

paris baguette LauncheD in canaDa in 2023 to much success, prepares for continueD growth in 2024 anD beyonD

with three locations open, one more to go in 2023, and another dozen already in the pipeline to open in 2024, paris baguette is on track to explode in the canadian market, establishing cafés coast to coast.

after opening our first canada location earlier this year, Paris Baguette has taken off in the country, seeing strong demand from prospective franchisees and guests alike. as a global brand with over 4,000 units, we’re well-known around the world, and the Paris Baguette team has developed a strong growth strategy that has already proven itself in the U.s now, we’re applying similar logic to bring the local bakery café back to canada.

Paris Baguette offers something truly unique, making all of our breads, cakes and pastries in-house daily. i n addition to fresh-baked goods, Paris Baguette offers craft coffees, wholesome grab-and-go options and an opportunity to relax and indulge in a truly community-centric space. With a welcoming layout, bright colors and what some have referred to as food theater throughout the cafés, Paris Baguette brings so much more to the community than just the newest place to pick up a bread, cake or pastry.

For many canadians, this isn’t an experience that is easily accessible. We’re on a mission to change that.

a meaningful Launch in 2023

When Paris Baguette opened our first canada location at Yonge and sheppard earlier this year, we saw a flood of demand from all directions. Prospective owners who had their eyes on the Paris Baguette opportunity before we even entered canada were thrilled, restaurant owners looking to branch out saw great potential in the model, and guests were blown away by the refreshing take on the local bakery café that Paris Baguette offers.

soon, we had another two locations open in southpark on Whyte and newmarket east, and there is a fourth slated to launch before the end of the year. similarly, this year alone, Paris Baguette has hit double digits with 10 franchise agreements signed. The brand is also targeting 10 new cafés to open in 2024.

seeing this level of demand from the brand’s first entry to the country has created an incredible foundation for future growth, and it is a strong indicator of the success we will see in the coming years. notably, though, Paris Baguette’s expansion will not be solely attributed to consumer and franchisee demand; a strategic development plan molded by the corporate team is allowing us to double down and make the most of the warm welcome.

paris baguette’s careful planning

Mirroring the same growth strategy that drove Paris Baguette to explode across the

U.s. in a matter of years, growth in canada is focused on establishing Paris Baguette cafés in major lifestyle centers and high-traffic areas to build a strong foundation for word to spread and help additional cafés have strong launches.

notably, Paris Baguette is also opening corporate-owned cafés in canada, further demonstrating our own confidence in and commitment to developing the market. This will allow us to experience the market firsthand and better understand any challenges new franchisees might be navigating. Growing side-by-side with our franchisees only strengthens the brand name in canada and propels us forward even more quickly, while working as true partners with franchisees, sharing a mission, vision and goal.

currently, we’re honed in on the Greater Toronto area for growth. With great proximity to the northeast U.s., where we’ve already established a strong presence, residents of the GTa know Paris Baguette well, and they’re excited to see us enter their own neighborhoods. Better yet, because the GTa is so diverse and serves as a major hub in canada, cafés here will have an ideal placement to serve international guests and create an impression that can be carried to other countries or even continents.

Working hand-in-hand with our development strategy are the insights and plans of all departments throughout

the Paris Baguette system. While careful franchise development is crucial to growth, it is the work of the marketing, research and development, operations and franchisee support teams that allow the system to run as smoothly as it does, empowering franchisees and unit-level team members to uphold the Paris Baguette name. With consistent menu innovation, ongoing franchisee training, and operational updates that work to streamline and enhance the experience for everyone, Paris Baguette has built a service and support reputation just as strong as that of its baked goods.

paris baguette has its sights set on the 100-unit mark after an encouraging launch in canada, we are eyeing the 100-unit mark in the country by 2030, and the canadian market and Paris Baguette model are proving to be a great match. canada is incredibly diverse, and Paris Baguette has something for everyone; breads, cakes and pastries, in one form or another, are universal across many cultures.

canadian guests have already demonstrated their love for the brand, and our open locations are seeing traffic and revenue trends that are impressive, to say the least. as we continue to grow, we’re looking to partner with franchisees who are passionate about bringing the sought-after experience and Paris Baguette quality to their own communities and becoming the go-to community bakery café in the area. v

StAGECoACH PErForMInG ArtS

CELEBr AtES CAnADIAn nEtWorK DUrInG

AnnUAL ConFErEnCE

at stagecoach performing arts, the brand is committed to ensuring its entire international network remains connected and celebrated. that is why members of head office recently came together with franchisees from across canada to recognise their collective achievements over the course of the last 12 months.

during its annual canadian conference – which, this year, focussed on a theme of ‘Together Towards Tomorrow’ – the network was acknowledged for the work they do to build the confidence and life skills of their students.

The two-day event, which incorporated thoughtprovoking seminars, keynote speeches and workshops, was a great reason for franchisees to come together in person. hosted at Vantage Venues in downtown Toronto, the central location saw

franchisees gather to network, collaborate and forge valuable connections.

“For me, the key takeaway was the opportunity to reunite with old friends and meet new Principals from across the country,” said Kristi Wenaus, Principal at stagecoach halifax. “i particularly loved the session from Theatrical rights Worldwide. i t was incredibly informative to learn about the process of acquiring a new musical and how the team works to ensure that the content is just right for our young audiences. We’re fortunate to have such a great working relationship with them.”

after important refresher training on topics such as safeguarding and health and safety, the first day of the conference was rounded out by a well-deserved celebratory meal in Toronto’s historic distillery district.

“Our annual conference is a valuable opportunity for the canadian network to gain insight into the vision and strategies for the year ahead,” explained i nternational Franchise Manager Bridget Key. “This year’s

theme, ‘Together Towards Tomorrow,’ revolved around collaborative efforts for a brighter future. i t was inspiring to witness the active engagement of so many franchisees and members of our head Office as they connected and exchanged ideas aimed at helping us realise this common goal. Our evening meal was a fantastic way to toast our successes, look to the future and conclude a day filled with enlightening workshops and seminars.”

stagecoach’s network includes more than 300 franchisees that operate over 3,000 schools and classes in eight countries. each year, franchisees in Germany, canada, australia, Lithuania, Gibraltar, Malta, spain and the UK gather for national and international conferences across the globe.

For cOO Lisa stead, it is important for stagecoach to host annual conferences for international franchisees to ensure that the whole network remain informed, motivated and, above all, valued.

“These conferences serve as a vital platform

“ It was inspiring to witness the active engagement of so many franchisees and members of our Head Office as they connected and exchanged ideas aimed at helping us realise this common goal.

for us to set the course for the upcoming year, engage in meaningful dialogues, foster connections among peers and commemorate our business achievements and the inspiring success stories that come with them,” said Lisa. “i extend my heartfelt appreciation for the remarkable contributions made by our canadian Principals and the positive impact they have on the countless students they mentor and support.”

To find out more about franchise opportunities with Stagecoach Performing Arts, visit www. stagecoachfranchise.com/canada/

mb i nternational b rands i nc.

EArnS GrEAt PLACE to WorK® CErtIFICAtIon

mbi brands, the canadian privately-held restaurant company that currently operates mary brown’s chicken and fat bastard burrito, proudly announced it has been certified™ by great placeto work®, the global authority on workplace culture.

The prestigious certification recognizes employers for creating an outstanding employee experience from the perspective that matters the most - the employee.

Using the Great Place Work Trust i ndex™ survey, results are measured from employee feedback on key areas from respect and credibility to pride and sense of belonging.

“We couldn’t be prouder to receive this “Great Place to Work” certification. i t reaffirms our commitment at MBi Brands

to cultivating a company culture where our employees thrive,” said hadi chahin, ceO, MBi Brands. “This kind of environment fosters a mutually beneficial partnership between our employees and the business. i f our employees are happy, our customers will also be happy.”

MBi Brands’ expertise in hospitality carries throughout the organization, fostering an environment of warmth and openness. The company demonstrates its investment in its employees through various leadership and hospitality workshops. additionally, employees are encouraged to further their development and education through courses that are covered by MBi Brands i nc..

“This certification is a reflection of our ongoing efforts to create a diverse, inclusive, employee-centric work environment,” said Zoobie singh, director, People & culture, MBi Brands. “Our team has

worked incessantly to ensure employees feel heard, valued and supported in their roles and in the company. We’re dedicated to maintaining this atmosphere, as we can attest that inspired, dedicated, content employees are the foundation for our company’s success.”

MBi Brand’s positive company culture is reflected in the success and exponential growth of both of the quick service restaurants the organization operates.

Mary Brown’s chicken, the 100 percent canadian-owned fried chicken restaurant that launched in st. John’s, n.L. in 1969, has gained momentum at a remarkable rate across canada. recently, the brand hit a major milestone, opening its 250th store in edson, alberta on november 1, 2023. This opening holds special significance as the brand opened its 200th store just two years prior – demonstrating its rapid expansion in canada and ever-growing network of

successful franchisees operating store locations across the country.

Fat Bastard Burrito, the Ontario-born burrito, quesadilla and taco chain, is also experiencing growth at an accelerated pace. The brand opened its first location outside of Ontario in July 2023 in st. John’s, newfoundland. With over 80 locations across the country, Fat Bastard Burrito continues to grow due to strong consumer demand.

every day, more stores are opening, and Mary Brown’s chicken and Fat Bastard Burrito are actively seeking new franchisees to partner in the rapid growth of the company. With numerous locations available across canada and models to fit various budgets, lifestyles and visions, all it takes is the right operator to get started.

To learn more about MBI Brands’ people, culture and career opportunities, please visit: www.mbibrands.com and www.mbibrands.bamboohr.com/careers

For more information, contact:

Becca Logan, rock-it promotions inc., becca@rockitpromo.com

Angie Gardner, rock-it promotions inc., angie@rockitpromo.com

ABoUt MB IntErnAtIonAL Br AnDS InC.:

MBI Brands is one of Canada’s largest privately held restaurant companies. The company currently franchises and/or operates two premium QSR brands: Mary Brown’s Chicken and Fat Bastard Burrito. Both brands have established MBI Brands as a nationally recognized franchisor of choice, with Mary Brown’s Chicken having won the Canadian Franchise Association’s Franchisees’ Choice Award a remarkable 12 consecutive years.

MBI Brands has over 350 restaurants in Canada and is heading toward 500 stores within the near future. The company has been awarded Canada’s Best Managed Company Gold Status for five consecutive years (2019-2023) and was awarded the Foodservice & Hospitality Magazine “Company of the Year” in 2022.

ABoUt MArY BroWn’S CHICKEn:

For over 54 years Canadians have made Mary Brown’s Chicken their first choice when they want fresh, hand-cut, hand breaded delicious fried chicken and Taters. The one hundred percent Canadian-owned brand proudly claims the title of Chicken of the North, with the iconic Big Mary sandwich being voted Best Chicken Sandwich in Canada. Mary Brown’s made-fresh-from-scratch approach to preparing food allows them to remain the premier fried chicken restaurant in Canada. Three hundred

stores later, with international expansion to Europe and Asia throughout 2024, their reputation of premium quality still holds firm. Mary Brown’s is proudly the Official Chicken Restaurant of the Toronto Blue Jays.™ Mary Brown’s boasts 18 years of consecutive same-store sales growth and has been awarded the Canadian Franchise Association’s Franchisees’ Choice Designation for 13 consecutive years.

To learn more about Mary Brown’s, please visit www.marybrowns.com.

ABoUt FAt BAStArD BUrrIto:

Fat Bastard Burrito is a Canadianowned quick service restaurant with close to 100 locations, offering an innovative and delicious menu focusing on burritos, bowls, tacos and quesadillas. The brand’s goal is to revolutionize the burrito business by offering fresh ingredients, customizable toppings and bases, and unique fusion flavours. Combining traditional cooking methods and unique toppings with healthy and fresh ingredients is what makes a Fat Bastard Burrito the best burrito in Canada and soon to be, the world!

b eaver tails c anada i nc.

BeaverTails® is truly one of a kind. irresistibly delicious, artisanal c anadian pastry, always there to share special moments that make lifelong memories. iconic indulgence since 1978, today we continue our heritage by uniquely combining our original recipe with premium quality ingredients. s erved piping-hot, our hand-stretched whole-wheat pastries are both crispy and chewy at the same time. With endless flavour combinations, we promise you an experience you will never forget.

We are BeaverTails®, and we have been part of your journey for over 40 years. We’ve been there at all the special stops along the path. The unforgettable getaways to some of the most beautiful places in the world. The laughter and thrills at theme parks, ski hills and water parks. The first dates. The

crunch fitness

Founded in 1989 new York crunch Fitness is a health club chain that leads the fitness industry by infusing fitness, fun, and entertainment. With a philosophy of ‘ no Limits’, crunch serves a fitness community for all kinds of people with all types of goals.

Today, crunch Fitness serves over two million members with 420+ gyms worldwide, including the U. s., australia, spain, Portugal, costa rica, Puerto rico, with more than 30 locations in canada.

d ickinson Wright

Our franchise and distribution law lawyers are some of the most widely published and most respected practitioners in the world and have decades of experience representing a broad spectrum of businesses, from start-ups to multi-national and multi-brand enterprises, in a vast range of industries.

With access to dickinson Wright’s full scope of capabilities, we support our clients in their every need, including:

• Creating domestic and international franchise and distribution networks

• Preparation of disclosure documents and materials

• Drafting and negotiating franchise and distribution agreements, including unit, area, development, master and international agreements

franchise h ub

Franchise hub is designed to provide a world class, franchise platform where entrepreneurs can connect with franchisors the smart Way seeking any franchise, anywhere. Our advanced ai matchmaking system is fast becoming the leading online resource for franchise opportunities.

search for your dream franchise or business with great, unique tools like a Business Plan, Loan calculator and appointment scheduler at your fingertips.

Franchisors can benefit from advertising options to

freshslice pizza

Freshslice Pizza, a proven name in the canadian pizza industry, continues its bold expansion across canada and the Usa . Known for its commitment to partnership, productivity and efficiency, Freshslice is the only franchise platform to offer:

• 0% royalty

• 0% ad fees

• 0% markup on ingredients

They have removed the barriers to entry, with only $60,000 liquid cash required, and is recognized by ciO Global as a Top 10 finest franchise to own.

anniversaries. The little, magical celebrations with your best friends. and all the moments in between when you wanted to stand back, and just enjoy the fact that life is good. That journey hasn’t always been in a straight line. s ometimes, it’s over-the-top. s ometimes, life gets messy. But that’s finemessy is good. Because it means you’re living every moment to the limit. it means you’re grabbing life by the tail.

The journey has just begun. Our promise today is to keep being there with you, where and when you need us most. To bring you comfort. To surprise you. To laugh with you.

Proceeding with an established brand means minimizing risks. We’ll work with you to create a business plan custom-made for success. You’ll also benefit from constant support as we accompany you on your journey.

crunch Franchise represents the most progressive and competitive fitness model in the industry. Our clubs are quick to build, easy to open and highly scalable. When you bring a crunch gym to your community, you’re bringing a world-class facility that’s attached to a world-class brand that’s synonymous with workouts that are both effective and fun

Get in on the Gym-Floor of canada’s #1 fastest growing high value, low priced full-size fitness franchise visit www.crunchfranchise.ca

• Drafting and negotiating licence and dealer agreements

• Litigation and alternative dispute resolution

• Marketing, advertising, promotions and contests

• E-commerce

• Regulatory compliance, with particular emphasis on franchise disclosure laws, product licensing and competition law

• Protecting trademark and other intellectual property rights

• Purchase and sale of individual units or complete systems

• Leasing and real estate acquisition

• Corporate and personal tax planning

• Corporate and business law

• Employment and labour law

Phone: 416-646-3842

suit all your franchising needs. Whether you want a simple listing, or want to take advantage of the promotional spots, they can help you choose the right lead generation package for you.

a s a Franchisor, rather than spend large amounts of money promoting your business, you will enjoy much lower and competitive listing fees because of Franchisehub’s buying and advertising power.

Join us at Franchisehub, where innovation meets opportunity, and let’s shape the future of franchising together.

Visit Franchisehub.ca.

add to that, over 20 exclusively invented and designed equipment designed to enhance productivity and streamline workflow for smaller spaces.

Their business model deliver higher profits and lower investment compared through a diverse 3 in 1 business model including:

• Being known as the by the slice leader

• UNLIMITED TOPPINGS at one price

• Offering delivery to your door discover the path to franchise success! complete the form at www.investinfresh.com or call at 1-844-Freshslice.

Kum O n nORT h a me R i C a i n C .

high school math teacher Toru Kumon developed the Kumon Method of learning more than 60 years ago in Japan, when his son was struggling with second-grade arithmetic.

realizing that a strong foundation in the basics-addition, subtraction, multiplication and division-was essential for higher-level math, Kumon created a series of math worksheets for his son to work on after school.

l e P OK é sTaT i O n

Poke (in hawaiian, po.ke means “piece” or “cut”) is one of the main dishes of traditional hawaiian cuisine. it consists of raw fish cut into cubes, served as a starter or main course. it is also known by its modern variant the poke bowl.

We are now the largest Poké franchise in canada! We started franchising in 2020, and amid the pandemic we still opened over 50 restaurants in 3 years.

l ittle c aesars

Little caesars offers strong franchisee candidates opportunities in select locations across the country. We provide candidates an opportunity for independence with a proven system, a simple operating model and strong national brand recognition.

Franchisees benefit from a comprehensive training program that focuses on all aspects of the business, including training, architectural and construction services to help with design, preferred lenders to assist with financing, the ongoing research and development of new products, and effective

massage addict

Massage addict is the country’s largest and fastest growing provider of massage therapy services, with over 40 clinics across canada. Massage addict is a proven business concept serving a gap in the market by helping canadians improve their health through affordable, convenient massage therapy without sacrificing quality or service. clients love the quality of Massage addict’s registered Massage Therapists and our franchise partners love the business model.

• Low investment and start-up costs

• Recurring revenue and quick ROI

t hryv

Thryv’s all-in-one franchise software allows franchisors to streamline communications, scheduling, marketing and payments across all locations.

Thryv offers software solutions designed to meet the needs of franchise businesses. With Thryv’s all-in-one platform, you can streamline communications, marketing and payments across all your locations. scale your multi-location business by using

With daily practice, Kumon’s son gradually expanded his mastery of mathematical skills and by sixth grade was able to solve differential equations and integral calculus problems.

Today, at locations throughout north america, Kumon franchisees apply this method of daily practice and self-paced advancement to children’s math and reading skills.

Phone: 201-928-0444

Website: Kumonfranchise.com

The key to our success:

1. a growing product demand

2. e xotic, healthy, natural and delicious food.

3. super fast service.

4. a product made for delivery or ‘Pick Up’.

5. One of the lowest investments in the industry

6. and a super quick return on your investment

For more information contact samy a ssouline at: 514-677-1465 or samy@groupsini.com www.lepokestation.com

marketing programs. Franchisees continue to receive support, expert analysis and consultation from corporate as their business grows.

Little caesars requires candidates desiring to open one store to have a net worth of $250,000 with a minimum of $100,000 in liquid, unencumbered assets (such as cash). Franchisees must also be able to obtain financing to cover the total costs of opening a franchised location.

contact: angelee Brown, development manager

Phone: 888-822-7981

email: Lccfranchising@littlecaesars.ca

Website: www.littlecaesars.ca

• Approximately 80% of treatments are paid by insurance

• Opportunity for multi-clinic ownership

• Straightforward clinic operations

• 100% Canadian owned and operated Massage addict is the right industry, the right business model, the right brand and most importantly it’s the right time. call today.

Phone: 1-855-852-6108

email: info@massageaddict.ca

Website: www.massageaddict.ca

our turn-key software for franchisees. a s a franchisor, you can view a single dashboard with real-time tracking and analytics across every location. Thryv helps your franchisees run better businesses.

contact: nimra Maniar

Phone: +1 (844) 339-6334

email: nimra.maniar@thryv.com

Website: https://www.thryv.com/features/ franchises/

Making an appearance every issue of Canadian Franchise magazine.

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