Franchise Canada November/December 2022 by Franchise Canada

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FOR MORE INFO, VISIT WWW.ESUPPLYCANADAFRANCHISE.CA NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2022

REINVESTING IN CANADIAN COMMUNITIES eSupply Canada is helping Canadians build strong local businesses through franchising

O F F I C E | J A N I TO R I A L | I N D U S T R I A L

Become an eSupply Franchisee Give your customers a locally-based alternative for purchasing their business supplies

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AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE GRAND PRIZE WINNERS

NEW CFA MEMBERS FROM COAST TO COAST

SPECIAL FOCUS ON COFFEE & BAKED GOODS NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2022

A Canadian Franchise Association Publication / FranchiseCanada.Online

POWER YOUR FRANCHISE SEARCH WITH

Subscribe for FREE at FranchiseCanada.Online

Find the full lineup of

2022 CFA Award winners inside!

Sylvie Levesque Paul Davis Restoration

Carolyn Genest Days Inn by Wyndham

GOOD AS GOLD and win the CFA's top Franchisee of the Year prize

REDEFINING THE NEIGHBOURHOOD PIZZERIA Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria & Bar is a neighbourhood-style restaurant business seeking passionate, qualified franchisees who are looking to build a successful franchise business with an established local brand. Call us to help you start your own local Famoso pizzeria.

Famoso is a casual full service pizzeria + bar passionate in bringing authentic Neapolitan pizzas to your local neighbourhoods, along with delicious pastas, salads, and tapas. We believe in using fresh premium ingredients and serving great tasting pizzas, just like they do in Naples. With an open kitchen and bar, you can enjoy watching your pizzas cooked and drinks poured as you experience a unique and casual atmosphere that defines what a neighbourhood pizzeria should be.

WHAT WE PROVIDE • Full Training & Support

• Proven Operation System

• Turnkey site selection and construction

• Innovative marketing strategy & advertising

LET'S TALK! partner@famoso.ca

www.famoso.ca

1.888.597.7272 (toll free Canada)

REAL FOOD FOR REAL LIFE. A REAL OPPORTUNITY.

the future is frozen As more people turn to meals prepared at home, M&M Food Market has become the franchise to own. Times are changing and our stores are changing right along with them. Never standing still, innovating, and adapting to the challenges of today while

preparing for tomorrow has been a key to success in our 40 year history.

Learn more about a franchise opportunity built for today and tomorrow at mmfoodmarket.com.

CONTENTS FRANCHISE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

CANADA

Looking for a franchise? Discover

the best franchise business opportunities available now

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

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Canadian Franchise Association

23 COVER STORY

First-Class Franchisees From education to hospitality, these award-winning franchisees exemplify the best practices in franchise ownership in 2022

FEATURES

Celebrating Franchising Excellence Meet the 2022 CFA Award winners

Achieving Franchise Accolades The 2022 Awards of Excellence Grand Prize winners reflect on their paths to franchise success

Expanding Your Franchising Horizons Key legal considerations to help you grow to multiple franchise units

Wonderful Waxes and a World of Opportunity Four salon and spa franchises share their plans for growth in 2023 and beyond

New Kids on the Block Find your next opportunity with one of the CFA’s newest member brands

SPECIAL FRANCHISE FOCUS

A New Suite of Opportunities Three hotel & travel franchises have beaten the odds, coming out of the pandemic stronger than ever

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Special Focus: Coffee & Baked Goods Franchises Why you should consider a franchise in this sector!

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

DEPARTMENTS

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

NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING License to Thrill Driverseat’s 20-year-old franchisee Abiahjit Kular is gearing up to open nine territories in his B.C. community

LEADERSHIP PROFILE The Pillars of Success Dan Steward gleans expertise from his previous career experiences in his role as president and CEO of Pillar To Post Home Inspectors

A DAY IN THE LIFE New Day, New Creations No two days are the same for New Creations franchisee Darren Clark

THE FIRST YEAR Triple O’s Meets Ontario Vancouver’s historic burger brand Triple O’s plots its eastward expansion

102

ICONIC BRAND Hip to Be Square Wendy’s iconic burgers haven’t changed—but the brand is still leading the way in innovation

105

SHOW ME THE MONEY 4 Franchises for $200K-$500K

106

FRANCHISE FUN Meet the New Neighbour Brian Woods of Neighbourly is all about brand building and working toward his passions (in between downs of college football, of course)

CATCH UP ON ALL 6 SEASONS NOW, BEFORE SEASON 7 LAUNCHES IN WINTER 2023!

110

FRANCHISE TUTORIAL Tutorials 17 & 18 This issue: • Territories and Protected Areas • Franchise Growth Formats

COLUMNS

10 CFA CODE OF ETHICS 14 INDUSTRY NEWS 108 ASK THE EXPERTS 114 MARKETPLACE 121 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX 122 GIVING BACK

LISTEN & LEARN

Tune in to the Franchise Canada Chats Podcast! Available on Google Play, iTunes, SoundCloud, Spotify, and Stitcher Radio

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

Franchise Canada

November | December 2022

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

FRANCHISING MASTER CLASS

very year, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) promotes franchise excellence through its awards program, which recognizes the best and brightest in the industry. This November/ December Franchising Excellence issue shines a spotlight on 2022’s franchising stars, with a focus on those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the franchisor-franchisee relationship, the cornerstone of the franchise business model. Behind every successful franchise brand are the franchisees who are flourishing through support from the franchise system, while also taking their brands to new heights by building important connections with their local communities. In the cover story on page 23, we showcase the 2022 Franchisee of the Year award winners, including Gold winners Carolyn Genest of Days Inn by Wyndham (Traditional Franchises category), and Sylvie Levesque of Paul Davis Restoration (Non-Traditional Franchises category), along with the silver and bronze winners. These best-in-class franchisees provide insight and inspiration for the next generation of award winners, as they recount their own experiences and share their advice for finding franchise success. To hear more from the Gold winners, tune in to the special bonus episode of the Franchise Canada Chats podcast. The showcase of franchise excellence continues with an in-depth look at the brands that won the Awards of Excellence Grand Prize: Inspiration Learning Center (Traditional Franchises) and EverLine Coatings and Services (Non-Traditional Franchises). On page 41, the people behind these brands reflect on their paths to franchise success, emphasizing the role that their relationship has played in putting them on the franchise map. On page 30, we provide a full roundup of all Award of Excellence and Recognition Award winners, plus recipients of the Franchisees’ Choice Designation and brands that have achieved accolades and reached CFA membership milestones. One hallmark of a successful franchise brand is its ability to demonstrate resilience in difficult times. The brands highlighted in our features on hotel and travel franchises (page 46) and salon and spa franchises (page 62) have certainly showcased this trait over the past two years, being among the hardest hit during the pandemic. These franchising rock stars flourished despite it, and are looking for franchisee partners to help fuel their growth plans.

The focus on excellence continues throughout the rest of the issue, with stories from both thriving veterans and new franchisees alike. On page 90, you can learn more about the excitement of starting a franchise from 20-yearold Abiahjit Kular, who recently secured nine Driverseat territories across British Columbia. On page 99, you get an inside look at what comes next, as Triple O’s franchisee Neil Turkington outlines his first year in franchising, after opening two locations in Ontario in the past year. For the seasoned veterans’ perspective, turn to page 96, where New Creations franchisee Darren Clark takes you through a day in the life with the restoration brand. Clark, who purchased the Saint John territory in 2013 and now owns three franchise territories in New Brunswick, hit almost 200 per cent sales growth during the pandemic, and credits his passion for unique restoration jobs and community connections for this success. Page 67 introduces you to the CFA’s latest recruits— the member brands that have joined the Association in the past year. These brands have already committed to franchise excellence by joining the CFA. Perhaps we’ll see them on the awards podium in the years to come! Beyond the brands and franchisees featured in this issue, visit FranchiseCanada.Online for more examples of franchise excellence, and for resources that can help put you on your own path to franchise success, including expert advice, videos, podcast episodes, and more. You can also visit LookforaFranchise.ca, the CFA’s online member directory, to search and connect directly with CFA member brands. Don’t forget to follow the CFA on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok for the latest updates in franchising. While this Franchising Excellence issue highlights the latest superstars of the franchise industry, it’s important to remember that the people featured in these success stories started out just like you: eager to start their own business, and looking for the right path to do so. We hope these stories inspire you to take the next steps toward making your own business dreams become reality!

Sherry McNeil President & CEO, Canadian Franchise Association

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

$10K Marketing Credit for New Owners! British Swim School is the North American leader in "learn to swim" programs. Our proven water survival program enables young children to first survive a water incident and then develop the life-long skill of swimming. To build upon our growing presence in Canada, we have launched a Canadian Foundation initiative - with a special offer for new owners who sign before the end of the year! Spots are limited - don't miss your chance!

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BRANDS POWERED BY

CFA BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD CHAIR David Druker*, The UPS Store PRESIDENT & CEO Sherry McNeil*, Canadian Franchise Association 1ST VICE CHAIR Ryan Picklyk, A&W Food Services of Canada Inc. PAST CHAIR Gerry Docherty*, Good Earth Coffeehouse SECRETARY & GENERAL COUNSEL

PUBLISHER

Canadian Franchise Association (CFA)

Larry Weinberg*, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP

VP, CONTENT & MARKETING Kenny Chan

TREASURER Lyn Little, BDO Canada LLP

EDITOR Lauren Huneault

CHAIR, FRANCHISE SUPPORT SERVICES

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Daniel McIntosh

Kirk Allen, Reshift Media

CHAIR, LEGAL & LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

Darrell Jarvis*, Fasken

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrea Lee ADVERTISING SALES Om Mehta AD COORDINATOR Andrea Lee

DIRECTORS

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

*Executive Committee member

visit www.FranchiseCanada.Online or call 1-800-665-4232 ext. 238.

The CFA wishes to acknowledge and thank these National Sponsors for their support throughout the year. Find out more about these companies at www.cfa.ca/sponsorship

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

Om Mehta omehta@cfa.ca

TO SUBSCRIBE TO Franchise Canada

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

© 2022, Canadian Franchise Association. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Publications Mail Agreement No. 41043018

LAW FIRMS:

SHOWCASED FRANCHISES

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

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

CODE OF ETHICS

he Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) is dedicated to encouraging and promoting excellence in franchising in Canada. Each member of the Association agrees to abide by the CFA Code of Ethics and to further the Association’s goals of encouraging and promoting ethical franchising in Canada. Each member of the Association agrees to comply with the spirit of this Code of Ethics in its general course of conduct and in carrying out its general policies, standards and practices. The following are considered by the Association to be important elements of ethical franchising practices: 1. Franchise system and franchise support services members should fully comply with Federal and Provincial laws, and with the policies of the Canadian Franchise Association. 2. A franchisor should provide prospective franchisees with full and accurate written disclosure of all material facts and information pertaining to the matters required to be disclosed in advance to prospective franchisees about the franchise system a reasonable time [at least fourteen (14) days] prior to the franchisee executing any binding agreement relating to the award of the franchise. 3. A ll matters material to the franchise relationship should be contained in one or more written agreements, which should clearly set forth the terms of the relationship and the respective rights and obligations of the parties. 4. A franchisor should select and accept only those franchisees who, upon reasonable investigation, appear to possess the basic skills, education, personal qualities and financial resources adequate to perform and fulfil the needs and requirements of the franchise. Franchise systems and franchise support services members of the Association should not discriminate based on race, colour, religion, national origin, disability, age, gender or any other factors prohibited by law. 5. A franchisor should provide reasonable guidance, training, support and supervision over the business activities of franchisees for the purposes of safeguarding the public interest and the ethical image of franchising, and of maintaining the integrity of the franchise system for the benefit of all parties having an interest in it. 6. Fairness should characterize all dealings between a franchisor and its franchisees. Where reasonably appropriate under the circumstances, a franchisor should give notice to its franchisees of any contractual

default and grant the franchisee reasonable opportunity to remedy the default. 7. A franchisor and its franchisees should make reasonable efforts to resolve complaints, grievances and disputes with each other through fair and reasonable direct communication, and where reasonably appropriate under the circumstances, mediation or other alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. 8. A franchisor and a franchise support services member should encourage prospective franchisees to seek legal, financial and business advice prior to signing the franchise agreement. 9. A franchisor should encourage prospective franchisees to contact existing franchisees to gain a better understanding of the requirements and benefits of the franchise. 10. A franchisor should encourage open dialogue with franchisees through franchise advisory councils and other communication mechanisms. A franchisor should not prohibit a franchisee from forming, joining or participating in any franchisee association, or penalize a franchisee who does so. 11. A franchise support services member in providing products or services to a franchisor or franchisee should encourage the franchises to comply with the spirit of this Code of Ethics. A franchise support services member should not offer or provide products or services if legislative or professional qualification is required to do so unless the franchise support services member has such qualification.

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

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

BIG JUICY

BURGERS

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

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WHAT WE PROVIDE

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

• • • •

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

Development Opportunities for Western Canada, Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes. Email: franchise@fatburgercanada.com | Website: www.fatburgercanada.com | Phone: 1-800-597-7272

ADVERTORIAL

REINVESTING IN CANADIAN COMMUNITIES eSupply Canada is helping Canadians build strong local businesses through franchising BY LAUREN HUNEAULT

alling all entrepreneurial and community-minded Canadians: the new eSupply Canada franchise concept could be just the ticket to help you build a successful, home-based business, while also creating local connections and keeping revenue within your community. eSupply Canada, an Indigenousowned company, is an online distributor of office, janitorial, and industrial supplies. It uses a drop ship model, which means supplies are only purchased as customers complete orders online. Steven Vanloffeld, eSupply Canada’s founder and CEO, says the company sources more than one million high-volume products all businesses need to operate, directly from manufacturers and national wholesalers. “Our suppliers have over 100 years of combined experience, so that allows us to lean on their warehousing, distribution, and logistics expertise, which saves costs. And our group purchasing model gives us access to volume pricing that allows

us to compete with the big box retailers,” explains Vanloffeld. “We operate in a space where big box retailers dominate the landscape. So how do we compete? Well, we need to go local. We need local owners who are on the ground and love building relationships to be the go-to supplier for local business owners.” And that’s where franchising comes in, as Vanloffeld looks to expand the business through local franchise owners. Keeping revenue in communities Vanloffeld says the idea for eSupply came to him when he sat on Council at his First Nation and noticed the volume of supplies coming into his community—and the amount of revenue that was leaving. “Because there were few businesses within our community, the majority of our revenue left and went to the surrounding towns, retailers, and big box stores,” he notes. “I said, ‘There has to be a better way. How do we keep revenue within the community?

How do we reinvest those resources into people, into jobs, into creating wealth and reinvesting it back into the community?’” When a representative from a major office supply chain visited for the third time in a week, the wheels started turning. Vanloffeld quickly learned that not only is there great volume in office supplies, but the margins are also high. He started thinking beyond just office supplies, to other community needs, including janitorial and industrial supplies, and decided he was ready to launch the business. It turned out Vanloffeld’s instincts were right: he says eSupply Canada’s first year was a “rocket ship ride” that fostered great success. To scale the business, he’s turning to franchising so local owners can help build the business in their own communities. “They can use this as a vehicle to stop the economic leak within their territories, and they can also use it as a vehicle to steal market share from the big box retailers by being

ADVERTORIAL

Steven Vanloffeld

the local owner who has community connections and relations with local business owners,” he explains. Growing through franchising Vanloffeld says that as a First Nation business, eSupply Canada is grounded in diversity, and helping those from underrepresented communities access opportunities that may not have been available to them in the past. To support that initiative, eSupply Canada has two different franchise models in place, notes Vanloffeld. “One is open to all Canadians, and that’s through our territory model,” he says, adding that there are 352 territories across Canada. The second is a First Nation Community Ownership model, where a First Nations community can purchase an eSupply franchise. “We’re looking for Indigenous franchisees. But we’re also looking for franchisees who represent the cultural fabric and makeup of all communities across Canada. We want our owners to reflect the diversity and the demographics of Canada,” he says. “Diversity is really what sets us apart. It’s who we are and what we value.” With this in mind, Vanloffeld says a major benefit to franchising with eSupply is its “incredibly low barrier to entry, because we focus on individuals who come from underrepresented communities. We want them to acquire an eSupply Canada franchise and build an incredibly successful business.” The franchise fee

is $25,000, and because it’s a homebased business, there are no costly long-term leases or capital requirements. Franchisees just need access to a computer, phone, internet, and vehicle. Vanloffeld notes that they’ve also partnered with Fanshawe College in London, Ontario to provide franchisees with a four-day training program, where they learn the ins and outs of the business, from prospecting to overcoming objections and using CRM software. Owners receive a micro-credit from Fanshawe upon completing the training. Additional support from the eSupply corporate team means franchisees can focus on the most important aspect—making sales. “We handle the shipping, the distribution, the customer service, and even returns. We want them focused on sales and growing great businesses, while we at corporate handle everything else behind the scenes,” explains Vanloffeld. Built for business While the benefits are numerous, Vanloffeld says developing a sales mindset is one challenge that eSupply franchisees face. “You need to have the stamina to deal with rejection and play the long game, because this is essentially a sales business. We can train some of that into you, but really, you need to have the personality to be able to withstand and overcome objection.” Vanloffeld says eSupply franchisees should also be creative, have

strong budgeting skills, and have business acumen. “We’re looking for people who are entrepreneurial— everybody says that!” he says with a laugh. “We’ve put in place a great system and great training that works. We want our owners to use what has proven to be successful for us, make it their own, and go and build strong, local businesses in their territories.” Bright franchise future eSupply’s formal franchise recruitment process launched in June, and the team is aiming to bring 10 franchisees on board by the end of 2023. With the recruitment process well under way, Vanloffeld says the launch of the redesigned website will come next. “We’ve invested heavily in our website so our owners have a really strong, reputable, well-designed website that they can stand behind,” he says. Vanloffeld says he’s also in “fullon recruitment mode right now” to fill out his management team as the company grows. This will be vital, as he has lofty goals for what eSupply can achieve. “In terms of the long-term vision, I have a goal to grow this to 300 units,” he explains. “We’re bringing opportunity to individuals from underrepresented communities and equitydeserving individuals, so they have an opportunity to create an amazing business, as well. I don’t see anyone else out there doing that—we’re uniquely positioned within this landscape.” ●

To learn more about franchising with eSupply Canada, visit www.esupplycanadafranchise.ca

INDUSTRY NEWS

Your source for what’s happening in Canadian franchising 14th Annual A&W Burgers to Beat MS Day Raises Over $1.8 Million for the MS Society of Canada A&W Canada's 14th annual Burgers to Beat MS Day, in partnership with MS Society of Canada, beat its $1.5 million goal by raising over $1.8 million in support of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). On August 18, Canadians across the country rallied together by visiting their local A&W restaurant to raise funds for Burgers to Beat MS Day, where A&W Canada donated $2 from every Teen Burger ® sold to the MS Society of Canada. Over the last 14 years, the Burgers to Beat MS fundraiser has raised over $19 million and continues to be the single largest annual corporate fundraiser for the MS Society of Canada. “Burgers to Beat MS Day would not be possible without the dedication of our amazing franchisees and enthusiasm of our loyal guests,” says Susan Senecal, president and CEO, A&W Food Services of Canada Inc. “We are blown away by this year’s outstanding success and are honoured to continue supporting the incredible work of the MS Society of Canada.” Olympic gold medallist and Canadian women’s national soccer team captain, Christine Sinclair, participated in and supported the Burgers to Beat MS program for the sixth consecutive year. Her mother and childhood soccer coach, Sandra, was diagnosed with MS and lived with it during most of Christine’s childhood. “My mom was an incredibly strong woman, and she will forever be my inspiration,” says Sinclair. “My involvement supporting the Burgers to Beat MS fundraiser for the last six years has been something I look forward to each year, as I know how crucial raising funds and awareness

for MS in Canada is. Thank you, Canada, for showing up and making this year’s campaign another outstanding success—it means a lot to people living with MS and their loved ones, like me.” Tim Hortons Foundation Camps Announces $5 Million to Support Black, Indigenous, and Youth of Colour from Toronto Communities in Need Tim Hortons Foundation Camps (Tims Camps) announced a $5 million commitment to a five-year partnership with Justice Fund Toronto, focused on supporting underserved youth. The partnership, kicking off in fall 2022, will enable the two not-forprofit organizations to combine their resources to provide programming opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and youth of colour from underresourced communities in Toronto. Tims Camps is a Canadian leader in youth development programming, with six exceptional campuses across Canada, built and funded by Tim Hortons owners since 1974. The Justice Fund was founded by Noah “40” Shebib, Yonis Hassan, and Jermyn Creed to break the cycle of conflict in underserved communities by providing youth with opportunities to thrive. Tims Camps has dedicated $5 million over five years to provide customized youth programming at two of its campus sites: Tim Horton Onondaga Farms Camp in St. George, Ontario and the Tim Horton Memorial Camp in Parry Sound, Ontario. In addition, Tims Camps will provide its first-ever off-campus programming via after-school sessions at a new downtown facility to be opened by the Justice Fund. The Justice Fund will identify the youth, commu-

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

nity organizations, and community chaperones to be included in the Tims Camps programming. Racialized youth in Toronto are disproportionately impacted by poverty. While many youth benefit from a myriad of opportunities to grow and develop, many Black, Indigenous, and youth of colour are limited by their access to the health, academic, and social resources necessary to thrive. “We’re honoured our initial pilot program with Tims Camps has grown into a remarkable long-term partnership, with a bold $5 million commitment to provide accessible outdoor programming to BIPOC youth across the GTA. Our city is blessed to have leading non-profits such as Project FU, Artcity, Kickback Project—and it’s been a privilege to collaborate with these organizations through the partnership of Tims Camps, Justice Fund and 40 Foundation,” said Noah “40” Shebib, cofounder of Justice Fund. “Tim Hortons restaurant owners have spent decades funding our exceptional camp sites across Canada and youth programming that has helped more than 300,000 youth since 1974. This is the first time that we have entered into a major partnership to focus on helping a specific community in need—Black, Indigenous, and youth of colour from underserved communities across Toronto. This is also the first time that we will bring our exceptional youth programming off campus to a downtown facility in Toronto where we can serve youth after school and close to their own communities... The combination of downtown and at-camp programming will be a powerful experience that we believe will change a lot of lives and help break the cycles of poverty and violence

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INDUSTRY NEWS that we see in these communities,” said Duncan Fulton, chief corporate officer of Tim Hortons and Chairman of Tims Camps. Pet Valu Brings More Convenience to Devoted Pet Lovers with Launch of AutoShip Pet Valu, a Canadian specialty retailer of pet food and pet-related supplies, announced in September the launch of AutoShip, a subscription-based service enabling devoted pet lovers to automatically receive the pet essentials they need on a recurring schedule of their choice. With convenience in mind, AutoShip offers pet lovers the option of having their essential products shipped to their home or ready for pickup in one of Pet Valu’s more than 640 local stores, outside of Quebec. Pet Valu is deeply committed to giving back through its “Compan-

ions for Change™” program and it’s using AutoShip to support the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides. Dog Guides’ mission is to empower Canadians living with disabilities to navigate their world with confidence and independence, by providing a dog guide at no cost. For every product added to an AutoShip subscription until December 31, 2022, Pet Valu will donate $20 worth of Performatrin® dog food to the Dog Guides’ feeding program. The program feeds all future Dog Guides puppies and dogs in training. “While subscription services are not new to the market, the big differentiators of Pet Valu’s subscription service from other Canadian pet retailers is the option to pick up your order in-store or have it shipped to your home, and the support each new subscription provides to Dog Guides,” says Tanbir Grover, Pet

Valu’s chief digital and marketing officer. “AutoShip gives devoted pet lovers the flexibility to choose when and how they want their subscription filled, all while enabling them to support a worthy cause, at no additional cost to them. At Pet Valu, we feel like part of the community. We know our customers and neighbours, and it’s these incredible relationships that help us bring people together to support pets and people at amazing organizations across Canada, like Dog Guides.” Pizza Hut Canada Partners with Serve Robotics to Test Robot Delivery Service in Vancouver Pizza Hut Canada embarked on its latest innovation in the pizza-verse with the launch of its new robot delivery service. The national chain partnered with Serve Robotics, the leading autonomous sidewalk

Make

EDUCATION Work for You! Franchising Opportunities in Your Area!

What We Provide Our Franchisees:

East Meets West Teaching Methods Lead Generation Ongoing Training and Support Personalized Enrichment Branding Campaigns

FRANCHISING TEAM +1.905.415.8257 2 Corby Road. Unit 5 Markham ON L3P 8A9

info@inspirationfranchise.ca

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

www.inspirationfranchise.ca

INDUSTRY NEWS delivery company, to host a twoweek pilot program in Vancouver, British Columbia. Through September, select Vancouver customers who placed an order via the Pizza Hut app had their favourite menu items delivered directly to their doorstep via robot. “From introducing cheese in our stuffed crust to delivering pizza to the International Space Station, Pizza Hut is the pizza pioneer,” shared Manish Dhankher, director of operations at Pizza Hut Canada. “We’re always looking for ways to enhance our customer service and deliver hot, fresh, and delicious menu favourites to our customers. Pizza Hut is thrilled to be at the forefront of this technology and partner with Serve Robotics to bring this offering to Canada for the first time.” Pizza Hut on 1725 Robson Street in Vancouver was selected as the

first location for the pilot. Customers selected for robotic delivery could use the Pizza Hut app to track the robot’s location as their order approached and received a unique, one-time pin to retrieve their order from the robot’s secure compartment. “Serve is excited to partner with Pizza Hut to provide Vancouver customers with the convenience and reliability of zero-emissions robotic delivery,” said Dr. Ali Kashani, cofounder and CEO of Serve Robotics. “This is an important step forward in our efforts to expand our delivery platform to serve more cities and communities.” Maple Bear Announces Three New Franchise Locations Maple Bear USA announced its newest franchisees are Kevin Dong and Shirley Song of Mesa, Arizona. Kevin and Shirley will be opening three

What if someone really understood my franchise? At Meridian, we invest time to understand the needs of each franchisee we support. We delve into brand and corporate strategy to assist with business evolution and tailor financial packages to help franchisees meet their financial goals. Learn more about how we can help

MeridianCU.ca/Franchising

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

locations in the Greater Phoenix area within the next five years. Maple Bear operates in conformity with local education regulations, strives to exceed state requirements for teacher-to-student ratios, and aims to meet the expectations of all parents no matter the culture or the country. The brand offers highquality early childhood education and care for children from six weeks to six years old. All Maple Bear schools offer a strong foundational program in Spanish, beginning at age two in the toddler program. Maple Bear schools are safe, spacious, modern, play-based, and equipped with the latest trends in materials and technology and best practices. Maple Bear classrooms are spacious and visually stimulating; furniture, materials, and books are essential to ensure the quality of the education and care provided.

BECOME PART OF RICKY'S FAMILY A Variety of Franchise Options to Meet Your Needs • • • • •

Founded in 1962 80+ locations All dayparts Family-friendly atmosphere Integrated or separate lounge

Opportunities 1. Retail Strip Mall

2. Conversion Opportunities 3. Hotel Locations • Terrace, BC • Dawson Creek, BC • Peace River, AB – SOLD

• On-going support • Comprehensive training program • Proven operating systems • Marketing support • High quality innovative menu

For franchise inquiries, please reach out to us: 1.888.597.7272

franchising@rickysr.com

Find out more:

www.rickysfranchise.com

INDUSTRY NEWS Fatburger Canada Opens Brand New Location in Airdrie, Alberta Fatburger Canada opened its 66th Canadian Fatburger restaurant in Airdrie, Alberta in September. With a little something for everyone, customers can expect fresh, never frozen, Alberta beef burgers that are hand-pressed and cooked to order the old-fashioned way, making it juicy and tasty unlike any other. Guests can also enjoy Fatburger-style breakfasts, juicy fried chicken sandwiches, world famous wings, hand-battered chicken tenders, and “Best Anywhere” milkshakes. “We are very happy to open in Airdrie as part of our continuing growth in Alberta,” says Raymond Ho, marketing director, Fatburger Canada. “We want to make fresh and delicious food for the community here, and in everything we do, we do

it to demonstrate our long-standing tag line of Higher Quality, More Variety and Better Value.” Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria Unveils Newly Renovated Sherwood Park, Alberta Location Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria in Sherwood Park has reopened after a recent restaurant makeover to provide guests with a new refreshed experience, while keeping its authentic and delicious menu and more. It reopened its doors officially on September 30th, 2022. Much loved by the community, this favourite neighbourhood pizzeria has been serving mouth-watering authentic Neapolitan pizzas since it opened in 2011. “As people are starting to come out more to enjoy in-restaurant dining, we felt that this was a great time to give the restaurant a fresh look and

to give our guests a comfortable and fun place to come enjoy pizzas with friends and families,” says Raymond Ho, marketing director of Famoso. “We believe this will enhance what our guests already love about Famoso and about the area.” At the helm of the Sherwood Park location will be Noopur Singh, who is one of the owners and is the main operator at this location. “We are super excited to be part of Famoso. Many people in the neighbourhood have been coming here for a long time, so we are looking forward to making great-tasting pizzas and meals for the Sherwood Park community.” In addition to dine-in services, Famoso also offers takeout and online ordering for direct pickup using its ordering app. It’s also available on delivery platforms SKIP, UberEats, and DoorDash.

A BUSINESS BUILT on

SERVING PEOPLE

in their time of need Are you ready to own a prosperous business with unlimited growth potential and make a difference in your community?

At Paul Davis, we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our customers. We have over 55 years of expertise in essential cleaning & restoration in fire, water, mold, and storms. We are leaders across North America in emergency services and property damage restoration.

833-264-9149

daniel.hopkins@pauldavis.com

PaulDavisBusiness.ca

Join our team and become a Difference Maker!

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

THE DIFFERENCE MAKERS™

Since opening in America in 2015, X-Golf has taken off. There are now over 60 locations spanning half of the states in the U.S.A. and for the first time ever, X-Golf ownership is now available in Canada. The X-Golf franchise model offers an exciting business opportunity for those ready to pursue a new venture in a unique, non-saturated, developing sports and entertainment industry. Each X-Golf location has the full support of our Head Office team. X-Golf has specialist resources to advise on each of the following franchise components:

Real Estate Site Selection & Store Fit-Out

Sales & Customer Relationship Training

Brand & Local Area Marketing

Supplier Relationships & Purchasing Discounts

Information Systems Business Development Implementation & Sales & Support Training

Want to Become a Part of the X-Golf Franchise Family? Visit XGolfCanada.com for More Information.

COVER STORY

Sylvie Levesque Paul Davis Restoration

F R A N CH

Carolyn Genest Days Inn by Wyndham

ISE E O F THE Y E A R

FIRST-CLASS FRANCHISEES

From education to hospitality, these award-winning franchisees exemplify the best practices in franchise ownership in 2022 BY DANIEL MCINTOSH

The Canadian Franchise Association’s (CFA) Franchisee of the Year award recognizes top-performing franchisees who have built strong connections with their communities. From multi-unit owners with decades of experience, to new franchisees earning their first stripes, Franchise Canada spoke to our podium of winners about the beginnings of their franchise journeys, the challenges they face, and what it takes to succeed in their respective industries.

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

COVER STORY

Gold, Traditional:

Carolyn Genest Days Inn by Wyndham Saskatoon, SK

To be named a franchisee of the year is a commendable honour, especially as a hotelier contending with the hospitality industry’s downturn in the wake of COVID-19. For Days Inn franchisee Carolyn Genest, it’s a victory made even sweeter as her company celebrates its 25th anniversary with the brand in November. Genest adopted her love of the hotel business from her father’s partnership at d3h, whose hotel beginnings “sound like a bad joke” by her own admission. “The company was started by three men named Don: an architect, an accountant, and a hotelier. One of the Dons, which was the accountant, was my father.” From day one, Genest was immersed in the world of hotels. As the business grew and became primed for franchising, Days Inn presented an opportunity for the founders to maintain their self-starting values. “They were looking for something that didn’t exist in the market, and a franchise that was really young,” says Genest. “Days Inn became a natural fit.” The franchise team valued what d3h had to say, leading to a synergistic partnership, according to Genest. But of course, challenges persisted. After the partnership came the issue of introducing the locals of Saskatchewan and Alberta to the new brand on the block. “There was no Days Inn in the province of Saskatchewan when we built our first hotel,” recalls Genest. Despite Days Inn being well-known across the U.S., it was only just starting to emerge in Canada. But Genest credits the brand’s messaging as an asset in their early strides into business. “The messaging was very strong, the recognition of the logo was very strong, and they just had good standards in place. It was easy to follow through with that when we were educating the public.”

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

Want to hear more from Carolyn? Listen to the BONUS Franchisees of the Year Franchise Canada Chats episode now!

COVER STORY

Today, Genest oversees six Days Inn locations across Saskatchewan and Alberta as d3h’s chief strategist, a fraught position to be in as the hotel and tourism industry dealt with rapidly shifting COVID protocols over the last two years. Genest wondered how a hotel franchise could stay relevant with travel limited to essential needs only. Days Inn pivoted to supporting their communities in different ways. They provided subsidized stays to families from a local Ronald McDonald House that shut down and provided long-haul truckers with essential furnishings for a quick rest and a shower. The relative downtime also allowed them to implement new partnerships with other service-related businesses in their communities. "It was just such a breath of fresh air to have that partnership and camaraderie that we could build together,” says Genest. The brand also created the Explore Pass program, which enticed visitors to explore local hotspots safely, and provided a comprehensive list of local closures. “It was an almost daily pivoting [around] the government's announcements,” she says. “So, it's been a struggle, but I'm proud to say that all our hotels remained open during COVID.” On receiving the Franchisee of the Year award, Genest says she felt honoured to be recognized by her franchisor. “It also gave us something to celebrate together. We needed something positive to keep us moving along.” Having seen her franchise through periods of growth and contraction over a quarter-century gives Genest a

unique view into the ups and downs of franchise ownership. As the advice she relays to new franchisees highlights, the marketplace has changed rapidly from then to now. Despite the average newcomer thinking the hospitality business is easy to enter, the industry can be cutthroat, and more new competition is forming every day. By contrast, the benefits of aligning with a franchise system are clear. “Just having that knowledge base and that support system in place is key,” says Genest. “I would ask questions, talk to other franchisees, read articles, do whatever research you need to, but you’re going to learn what the franchise is like from other franchisees. That would be my biggest piece of advice: do your research.” “We’re celebrating our 25th year franchising with Realstar and have appreciated their commitment to growth and consistent demonstration of authentic hospitality,” adds Genest. “A big thank you to the team at Realstar for the nomination and to the CFA for the award. It’s been a welcome recognition for the entire team at d3h.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

COVER STORY

Want to hear more from Sylvie? Listen to the BONUS Franchisees of the Year Franchise Canada Chats episode now!

Gold, Non-Traditional:

Sylvie Levesque Paul Davis Restoration Grand Falls, NB

The franchise journey doesn’t start with visions of sure success for everyone. For Sylvie Levesque, the opportunity for ownership came after 11 years as a Paul Davis Restoration employee. The brand provides cleanup and repair services for residential and commercial properties, which Levesque has seen her fair share of. But the shift from being a peer in the organization to a leader

doesn’t happen overnight. Confidence and certainty in decision making is a learned skill, one that she has had to develop in her three years as a franchisee for the brand. “I was thrown pretty deep in the ocean,” she says. Despite only being six months into her tenure as a franchisee before the pandemic struck, she says that the enforced changes were quite similar to issues she deals with on a regular basis. “You walk into a sewer backup, you’re bound to be wearing your PPE, you know how to don and doff, you know how to use disinfectant.” Levesque says no two days at Paul Davis are ever the same. “Whatever emails come in, whatever files get on my desk, is what I tackle that day.” On an average day, she’s dealt with calls regarding mold, asbestos, water and fire issues, damage from hail the size of golf balls, and at least one bat infestation. She relies on the network of Paul Davis corporate staff and franchisees to stay afloat. “There’s always

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

COVER STORY

somebody somewhere that can lend a hand or that will be an ear to listen or be a sounding board. That’s probably what I enjoy the most about being part of the Paul Davis network.” Whatever issues they face, it’s clearly worked in their favour as gold winners of the Franchisee of the Year award. Levesque says the award, and the national attention it brings, allows people in her community to see them as “more of a professional company and not just a construction company.” With the award also comes endorsement for her team. “When they do get to those jobs that aren’t necessarily the most fun, having that validation, having that team spirit and knowing that we’re doing good work and we’re being appreciated not just by our clients, but also in the industry.” For prospective Paul Davis franchisees, Levesque says diving in and learning from experience is the best course of action. “It’s a great network, we’ve got a lot support

and you get great results, because you have those people around you that can help and lead you and you develop great friendships through all this, as well.” She adds that she’s seen continuous growth and success with the network’s support. So much so that her team has been designated as a mentorship office for onboarding new franchisees. As for the future of her franchisee journey, she intends to keep up her mentorship for incoming business leaders and recommends speaking to franchisees to learn from their experience. “I want to keep being one of those mentorship offices and guide people to make the best decision for them.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

COVER STORY

Silver, Traditional Winner:

Silver, Non-Traditional Winner:

SpeedPro Imaging Canada, London, ON

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

Chris Vlemmix

Chris Vlemmix, a SpeedPro franchisee from London, Ontario, won the silver traditional Franchisee of the Year award. He says the benefits of franchising were clear and appealing to him before he left his previous job in 2008, in the engineering department of an automotive supplier. Meanwhile, the 2008 recession raged on, and many companies, including his, were downsizing. “All of this was happening at the same time as I was looking at franchise opportunities—including the Speedpro franchise.” As Vlemmix weighed the options of going into business for himself, he saw the benefit of Speedpro’s proven system, citing the great management team, their stellar marketing and training programs, and the positivity of other franchise owners with the brand. The latter point is especially important to future franchisees. “Do your research,” asserts Vlemmix to prospective franchisees. “Make sure you speak to a good cross-variety of owners at different stages of building their business ... and trust your gut.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

John Bailey

Canada, Toronto, ON There’s a consistent mantra that runs through the world of franchising: you’re in business for yourself, not by yourself. John Bailey, a Toronto-based franchisee, cites the adage in reflection of why he joined TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Canada. Even when working from his office, he says, “If I needed help with something I knew I could count on someone to help me.” During his early interactions with the company, Bailey noted the supportive nature of the franchisor team. “It seemed like they cared about people and wanted everyone to succeed.” The shared success runs through the organization from the top down, meaning franchisees lean on each other and everybody wins. “We can work with other franchisees to develop our brand and our business at the same time,” says Bailey. “If we have a problem, we can count on someone else to be able to help us work through certain challenges.” As for advising prospective franchisees, Bailey says the best asset new members could bring to TWO MEN AND A TRUCK is a desire to work hard, work smart, and think outside of the box. “Be a good listener,” he says, “and by doing that you can come up with some creative ideas to be successful.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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

COVER STORY Bronze, Traditional Winner:

Naghmeh Razmpoosh

Oxford Learning, Milton, ON For Naghmeh Razmpoosh, joining Oxford Learning as a franchisee went hand in hand with her family needs. “It was more about helping kids, than owning a franchise business,” says Razmpoosh, of her Milton, Ontario-based business. She was inspired by the needs of her own child’s immunocompromised illness. “I needed to either homeschool her or find an education centre for her that could provide the right environment.”

Oxford Learning provided an established brand she could use to help parents in similar situations, and guarantee the tools for building a successful business from the outset. As an engineer by profession, Razmpoosh is used to seeing things in a procedural and methodical light, and the philosophy behind Oxford Learning, as expressed by founders Lenka and Nick Whitehead, aligned with her thinking. “What started out as admiration and awe has grown into a passionate desire to use this learning system to help all children in the Milton community and beyond,” adds Razmpoosh, “particularly those with their own unique learning needs, which were not being addressed by the public school system.” For prospective franchisees looking to break into the field of education, Razmpoosh says alignment with the franchise mission is invaluable. “Make sure you speak to existing franchisees. If you put in the effort and you believe in the mission, then the sky is the limit!”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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

FRANCHISE@WINGSUP.COM

(289) 834-2027

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE Established in 1992, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) Awards of Excellence celebrate the best of Growing Together™ and the symbiotic partnership between franchisors and franchisees that leads to shared success. Regardless of the size or concept, a strong relationship between the franchisor and franchisee is vital to a franchise system’s success. The 2022 CFA Awards of Excellence in Franchising, Franchisee of the Year, Franchisees’ Choice Designation, CFA Recognition Awards, and Membership Milestones awards recognize the brands that have earned top marks from the franchising community. They recognize their success in not only exceeding the expectations of their franchisees, but also for finding innovative ways to reach their customers. Featuring the winners of the 2022 CFA Awards, Franchise Canada highlights the extraordinary franchises that have excelled in the delivery of service to their customers and support for their franchisees, as voted by their peers. Read on to learn more about these exceptional, award-winning brands and their franchising accolades!

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

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

2022 Franchisees’ Choice The Canadian Franchise Association Announces the 2022 Franchisees’ Choice Designees

hat do the franchise systems featured on the following pages have in common? While they are all unique concepts and operate in a variety of business sectors and industries, these franchises have the distinction of being named as Franchisees’ Choice designees, receiving high rankings from their franchisees. The Franchisees’ Choice designees are Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) member franchise systems who voluntarily took part in an independently-administered survey. Their franchisees were asked to rate the franchisor in key areas of the franchise business model, including leadership, business planning and marketing, training and support, ongoing operations, and the relationship between the franchisor and franchisee. “The true strength of a franchise system lies in the mutually-rewarding relationship between a franchisor and its franchisees,” says Sherry McNeil, president and CEO of the CFA. “Being a Franchisees’ Choice designee is a high honour because the high rankings in franchisee satisfaction come directly from the franchisees themselves.” In the due diligence process of investigating a franchise opportunity, speaking with existing franchisees about the opportunity being explored is essential. For prospective franchisees, the Franchisees’ Choice designation identifies that a franchise brand has received solid endorsement and ratings from its franchisees in areas such as: • Franchisee selection process • Franchise information package • Leadership • Training and support • Operations and improvements • Franchisor-franchisee relations

THE FRANCHISEES’ CHOICE LOGO Franchisees’ Choice winners receive a special logo to identify them as having achieved high rankings in franchisee satisfaction. As you explore franchise opportunities as part of your due diligence process, be on the lookout for this logo to discover the franchise systems that have been recognized for placing an emphasis on building first-class relationships with their franchisees.

Regardless of any awards or recognitions a franchise system may receive, CFA and Franchise Canada strongly recommend that prospective franchisees conduct thorough due diligence to help ensure that a franchise is the right fit for them. Learn more about the due diligence process at www.FranchiseCanada.Online!

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

The 2022 Franchisees’ Choice Designees Are: (in alphabetical order)

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

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

Celebrating an Ongoing Commitment to Franchise Excellence A number of franchises have earned the Franchisees’ Choice Designation multiple years in a row, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to franchise excellence and strong franchisor-franchisee relations. In recognition of their achievement, the CFA has created special logos that these franchise systems can use to display their consistently high scores from their franchisees. The 2022 Franchisees’ Choice 12-Year Designees Are:

The 2022 Franchisees’ Choice 11-Year Designees Are:

The 2022 Franchisees’ Choice 10-Year Designees Are:

The 2022 Franchisees’ Choice 9-Year Designees Are:

The 2022 Franchisees’ Choice 8-Year Designees Are:

The 2022 Franchisees’ Choice 7-Year Designees Are:

The 2022 Franchisees’ Choice 6-Year Designees Are:

The 2022 Franchisees’ Choice 5-Year Designees Are:

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

Awards of Excellence The highest standard of franchising excellence in Canada, the CFA Awards of Excellence recognize franchise brands that have demonstrated superior franchise relations, leadership, business planning, marketing, training and support, ongoing operations, and communications in the Traditional Franchise and Non-Traditional Franchise categories.

GRAND PRIZE WINNER TRADITIONAL FRANCHISE Inspiration Learning Center – Tutoring And Private School

GRAND PRIZE WINNER NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISE EverLine Coatings and Services

NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 6-15 FRANCHISEES

NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 16-29 FRANCHISEES

NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 30+ FRANCHISEES

GOLD Driverseat

GOLD EverLine Coatings and

GOLD New Creations

SILVER Metropolitan Movers BRONZE Prep’n Sell

Services

SILVER CertaPro Painters BRONZE TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

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

SILVER Paul Davis Restoration

Canada

BRONZE WP Creations

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

Meet the CFA’s 2022 Franchisees’ Choice Designees! Are you looking to partner with a top franchise that’s committed to your success? If so, you’re in the right place! Find the full list of winners at cfa.ca/ lookforafranchise/ top-franchises/ TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 6-15 FRANCHISEES

TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 16-29 FRANCHISEES

GOLD Inspiration Learning Center –

GOLD Symposium Cafe Restaurant

SILVER Lice Squad.com

SILVER MaxWell Realty Inc.

BRONZE Ctrl V

BRONZE Willowbrae Academy

TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 30-99 FRANCHISEES

TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES 100+ FRANCHISEES

GOLD Triple O’s

GOLD Pizza Nova

SILVER Motel 6

SILVER Oxford Learning

BRONZE Wendy’s Restaurants

BRONZE A&W Food Services of

Tutoring And Private School

of Canada

& Lounge

Canada Inc.

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

Membership Milestones Every time a franchise joins and renews their CFA membership, they amplify the voice of the collective. They commit to excellence in franchising. And they help the CFA represent more than 700 brands from coast to coast as the authoritative voice of franchising. Membership milestone achievements honour members for their ongoing commitment to the CFA’s pursuit of strengthening franchising in Canada. Congratulations and thank you to the following members, who are celebrating membership milestones in 2022.

40 YEAR MILESTONES • Mary Brown’s Chicken

35 YEAR MILESTONES • Grinner’s Food Systems Limited • Lapointe Rosenstein Marchand Melançon, LLP • Mister Transmission (International) • Regis Corporation

30 YEAR MILESTONES • Boston Pizza International Inc. • ServiceMaster of Canada • SmartChoice Benefits

20 YEAR MILESTONES • Booster Juice • Canadian Franchising Group • Home Instead, Inc • Pizza Pizza • PropertyGuys.com Inc • The Entrepreneur’s Source®

15 YEAR MILESTONES • Alliance Franchise Brands • BE Franchise Group/ Batteries Expert • Business Alliance Inc • CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc. • Hodgson Russ LLP • Insurance Portfolio Inc • Papa John’s Pizza • Pizza Depot • Pro Fleet Care Franchising Inc • Second Cup Ltd. • Winmark Corporation

10 YEAR MILESTONES • AUDAX LAW • BUILD IT • Crowe Soberman LLP • Garfinkle Biderman LLP • Gino’s Pizza • InXpress Canada • Orangetheory Fitness • Quality Credit Reporting • Servpro • Sherrard Kuzz LLP • SpeedPro Canada • Stikeman Elliott LLP • The Mitchell & Abbott Group Insurance Brokers Limited • Willowbrae Childcare Academy

25 YEAR MILESTONES • Blaney McMurtry LLP • Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP • Charlwood Pacific Group • FranNet Canada • Mr. Greek Restaurants

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

5 YEAR MILESTONES • 30 Minute Hit Ltd. • American Express Canada • AscendantFX Capital Inc. • Astley Gilbert Limited • A XIS Integrated • Beyond the Classroom Systems Inc. • Chorizo Fresh Mex • Cinnaholic • Ctrl V Inc • Dine Brands Global • Dipchand LLP • Diversified Royalty Corp. • Federated Insurance Company of Canada • Frank Zaid FRANlegal Support Services • Goldfish Swim School Franchising LLC • LIVE WELL Exercise Clinic (Franchise) Inc • Meridian Credit Union • Mitchell Sandham Inc. • Spiritleaf Inc. • Stagecoach Theatre Arts (Canada) Limited

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

Franchisee of the Year The CFA Franchisee of the Year Award is presented to franchisees who have demonstrated an overall star quality within their franchise. Awards are presented to Gold, Silver, and Bronze franchisees in the Traditional category (brick and mortar locations) and in the Non-Traditional category (mobile or homebased franchises), all of whom have been franchising with their brand for at least two years.

TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES

NON-TRADITIONAL FRANCHISES

GOLD C arolyn Genest, Days Inn by Wyndham

GOLD Sylvie Levesque, Paul Davis Restoration

(award accepted by Jesse Tiefenbach, pictured above right)

SILVER C hris Vlemmix, SpeedPro Canada

(pictured above)

SILVER John Bailey, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

Canada

BRONZE Naghmeh Razmpoosh, Oxford Learning

Centres

Recognition Awards The CFA’s Recognition Awards celebrate individuals and franchise systems for their outstanding achievements, contributions, and philanthropic endeavours to the franchise community.

CFA DISTINGUISHED FRANCHISE SUPPORT SERVICES/ SUPPLIER AWARD This award recognizes a person or a company for their efforts and contributions in supporting the franchise industry and the Canadian Franchise Association at large. Elements taken into consideration include: • Participation in and support of the CFA, its Purpose and Mission • Demonstrated benefit to the community • Involvement throughout the franchise community

HALL OF FAME AWARD The Hall of Fame Award is presented to a CFA member franchise in recognition of outstanding performance. Winners typically have strong brand recognition and solid business performance. They exhibit leadership in the franchise community, including helping to encourage excellence in franchising through the sharing of best practices, speaking engagements, mentoring other members of the community, and raising the profile of franchising.

CFA OUTSTANDING CORPORATE CITIZEN AWARD Given to a franchise system that has demonstrated genuine and ongoing concern and support for a community or social service group(s). Award recipients are selected based on their philanthropic innovation, support, and impact to the community, whether on a local, regional, national, or global scale.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD This award recognizes exceptional achievement and contribution to Canadian franchising and the community at large through demonstrated excellence throughout one’s lifetime and career in franchising.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION CHAMPION AWARD This award recognizes a company or individual for extraordinary leadership and contribution towards improving and promoting diversity and inclusion within their workplace and the franchise community in Canada.

VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE AWARD The Volunteer Leadership Excellence Award is presented to an individual who embodies the spirit of this award through their passion and leadership in their volunteer activities with the CFA.

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

CFA Distinguished Franchise Support Service/Supplier Award: Sherrard Kuzz LLP

Diversity and Inclusion Champion Award: McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada

One of Canada’s leading employment and labour law firms, Sherrard Kuzz LLP has been recognized nationally and internationally for their work representing employers in a wide range of industries, size, and complexity. The team of employment and labour lawyers at Sherrard Kuzz LLP has worked tirelessly on behalf of not just the Canadian Franchise Association, but the entire franchise community to fight common employer, a threat which has uniquely impacted the franchise business model in recent years. The Sherrard Kuzz LLP team has used its expertise, knowledge, and professionalism to assist the franchise industry, its members, and the Association, as well as more than a dozen organizations across North America.

McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada can trace its origins back to the early 1970s. This longstanding brand has also been a pioneer in diversity and inclusion in Canadian franchising. Today, its Diversity, Equity & Inclusion program is deeply rooted in the values of McDonald’s and encourages the representation and inclusion of all genders, backgrounds, ages, abilities, languages, and more within its employees and leaders worldwide. McDonald’s seeks to lift up underrepresented groups within the industry. Moving forward, McDonald’s plans to increase the representation of women within its leadership roles worldwide to 45 per cent by 2025, and aims to achieve gender parity in leadership roles globally by the end of 2030.

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

Hall of Fame Award: Wendy’s Restaurants of Canada A longstanding member of the franchising community, Wendy’s Restaurants of Canada opened its first Canadian store in 1975. Today, the brand now has more than 400 locations across the country, and recently opened its 1,000th location internationally. Wendy’s has demonstrated strong business performance through nine years of consecutive same-restaurant sales growth, as well as the addition of more than 50 new locations nationwide in recent years. The brand has plans to accelerate its growth in Canada to create more jobs and serve more customers. Wendy’s Restaurants of Canada is a long-time and active member of the CFA, and a consistent participant in CFA’s educational and government relations programming.

CELEBRATING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

Lifetime Achievement Award: U. Gary Charlwood, Charlwood Pacific Group

CFA Outstanding Corporate Citizen Award: KFC Canada

CFA Volunteer Leadership Excellence Award: Rick Chittley-Young, MNP

At the age of 25, U. Gary Charlwood arrived in Canada with a young family and a dream but very little to his name. Less than 10 years later, he stepped into the world of franchising, purchasing the Canadian master franchise rights to CENTURY 21 in 1975. Five years later, Charlwood founded Uniglobe Travel, which went on to become one of the most recognized names in the travel industry. Today, the Charlwood Pacific Group owns the master and territory franchise rights to leading brands in real estate, travel, property management, and mortgage brokerage businesses in Canada and around the world. Charlwood is a soughtafter, international authority on franchising and entrepreneurship, serving as Chairman of the International Franchise Association (IFA) and winning accolades, including the IFA Entrepreneur of the Year award and inductions into the Halls of Fame of the American Society of Travel Agents, the IFA, and the CFA.

As a business, KFC Canada has made it a mission to serve “finger lickin’ good” meals to hungry guests. But the brand has also pioneered a program that delivers food to those who need it in local communities. Through its KFC Harvest Program, KFC restaurants across the country donate surplus chicken to local charities, providing essential protein needed for balanced meals. KFC Canada has donated more than 182,000 pounds of food to more than 240 unique charities across Canada, helping feed the 850,000 Canadians who rely on food donation centres each month. This program has helped combat critical food shortages at food banks and helped to create a healthier and safer environment by addressing food waste.

With a longstanding history of service to the CFA as treasurer on the CFA Board of Directors, Rick Chittley-Young has helped lead the Association through more than a decade of growth and evolution. A partner and business advisor with MNP, Chittley-Young draws on more than 25 years of experience helping ownermanagers achieve their personal and business goals, and expertise in accounting, tax planning and compliance, and a broad range of business issues. Along with bringing this experience and knowledge to his role as treasurer, Rick has generously offered his time and expertise in all areas of the CFA’s work. His continued volunteerism in educational programming, advocacy, and events, as well as his ambassadorship on behalf of the CFA community, have truly helped the CFA grow and develop.

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

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Achieving Franchise Accolades The 2022 Awards of Excellence Grand Prize winners reflect on their paths to franchise success BY JORDAN WHITEHOUSE

n April, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) handed out its annual Awards of Excellence at its National Convention in Ottawa, Ontario. It was the first year the Awards Gala had happened in person since 2019, so it was an especially memorable evening for everyone there. But it was even more memorable for Inspiration Learning Center and EverLine Coatings and Services, who took home the two Grand Prize awards. Determined by franchisee surveys, the Awards of Excellence celebrate strong partnerships between franchisors and franchisees. Every year, awards are given to franchises in two categories: Traditional franchises (those with brick and mortar locations) and Non-Tra-

ditional franchises (those that are mobile or homebased). The Grand Prize is presented to a Gold winner in each category, and this year Inspiration Learning Center took it home for Traditional franchises, while EverLine Coatings and Services won the top honour for Non-Traditional brands. The two honours are considered the pinnacle of franchise achievement in Canada, so Franchise Canada decided to uncover the secrets behind these successful brands. Why do they resonate so strongly with their franchisees? Here’s what the franchisors and franchisees told us about building and growing a top franchise operation.

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

EverLine Coatings and Services In October 2011, a 23-year-old John Evans attended a franchise tradeshow in Calgary, Alberta, where he met representatives from a company licensing a road surface marking technology. He didn’t know they were licensing it, instead thinking they were selling franchise locations and that it would be a good fit for him as a former College Pro Painters franchisee. What a fortunate misunderstanding that was. Fast forward 11 years and Evans has turned that licensing partnership into EverLine Coatings and Services, one of the most successful pavement maintenance and line striping franchises in the country. The franchise now has 19 locations across Canada. In the spring, the company entered the U.S., where it opened another 40 locations. A big reason for that success has been the company’s decision to expand its services, says Evans. “When we started franchising in 2017, we found that line painting was a good business model for a bigger city, but for this to

truly be national, it has to fit any shape and size of market. And so that’s where we had to diversify our services.” Now, in addition to parking lot line striping, the company performs a suite of pavement maintenance services, everything from asphalt repair, sealcoating, and crackfilling to speed bump and signpost installations, power washing, interior floor coatings, and custom stenciling. Sudbury-based franchisee Eric Lavergne-Giroux was the first to provide these different services. “The big potential for franchisees is that ability to offer multiple services,” he says. “Now, you can take on larger, allencompassing pavement maintenance programs. You can take a small $500 client who you were just restriping lines for and build that relationship into one worth thousands of dollars every year.” Another huge benefit with EverLine is its franchisee support system, says Lavergne-Giroux. As a former franchisee himself, Evans knows that all-encompassing supports are key to a thriving franchise. So, he spent

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ACHIEVING FRANCHISE ACCOLADES

significant time and energy helping to build a 12-week online and in-person franchisee training program, as well as providing ongoing supports that include podcasts, videos, bi-weekly roundtables, monthly one-onone meetings, and the Entrepreneurial Operating System that helps franchisees meet their goals. EverLine is also constantly developing technology solutions to help franchisees, says Evans. “Our tech stack is extremely advanced by all standards, and that’s so franchisees can have automated systems that run their business in the background so they can focus on what they want to focus on and scale their business. Because that’s really it—EverLine isn’t for them to buy a job; it’s to scale their business.” That’s been true for Lavergne-Giroux, who says that while the seasonality of the business can sometimes be a challenge, the increased offering of year-round services has definitely helped him scale. “It’s nice to see that growth in my business and EverLine, and that my

desire to be involved more or less from day one is paying off.” It should continue to pay off, says Evans, who notes that the company is attracting more national accounts every year. In the summer, for instance, EverLine was awarded the contract to service all Tim Hortons locations across Canada. To manage that growth, though, the company is looking for more franchisees, particularly in bigger centres like Toronto and Vancouver. “We’re seeing supersonic velocity as a brand,” says Evans. “We’re staking a claim and innovating, and this is forcing the whole industry to become better, to keep up with us.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

ACHIEVING FRANCHISE ACCOLADES

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

ACHIEVING FRANCHISE ACCOLADES

Inspiration Learning Center Winning awards is nothing new for Inspiration Learning Center. Every year since 2018, the tutoring and private school franchise has won at least a silver award at the CFA Awards of Excellence, including the Grand Prize in 2019. It’s an impressive track record, and for franchisee Cecilia Chen, a big reason for that success is that the Inspiration concept is unlike anything out there. “Our teaching methodology is east meets west,” says Chen, who has Inspiration locations in Aurora and Thornhill, Ontario. “In the east, it’s cognitive application, more practice, repeating things. In the west, it’s more critical thinking, group discussion. That combination is unique, and it helps us strengthen the individual learning styles of each student.” It also helps that the concept isn’t just about formal tutoring, adds Chen. Yes, instruction is available for almost every subject and grade, but over the years, a variety of other income streams have become available for franchisees, including school application services, educational planning, books for sale, and even the option to establish private high schools. That diversity of offerings has been a cornerstone of the franchise since Angel Kuang started it back in 2003.

The young educator had immigrated from China two years earlier and quickly earned a master’s degree in economics from Lakehead University. Beginning with an Inspiration location of her own in Scarborough, Ontario, Kuang wanted to expand. “I’ve been a businessperson since I was 20, so I’ve always had this business mind,” she says. “And when you have a business, you want it to grow. It’s like raising a child; I’m not satisfied if that child isn’t progressing.” Today, there are 13 Inspiration Learning Centers spread across the Greater Toronto Area and British Columbia. Kuang wants to continue growing the franchise, and she’s looking for franchisees who aren’t just college educated, but who also show genuine, in-depth interest in the concept. They also need to love socializing, she adds, because talking to parents, tutors, and students is key to understanding what each student needs. The benefits for franchisees are many, says Chen. “One, we have flexible working hours, which is important for young entrepreneurs like myself looking to balance a career with a personal life and family commitments. I also get a better understanding of the Canadian education system, which allows me to better educate my own kids. And then there’s plenty of support from head office whenever there are challenges, including from Angel herself.” Most of those challenges came during Chen’s first six months in business, when she was spending six to seven days a week understanding the business, marketing it, and building a strong customer base. It wasn’t easy with a young family at home, but as she found, “you get out of the business what you put into it.” As for the future of Inspiration Learning Center as a whole, Kuang remains committed to raising it like a child. Since its beginnings, the franchise has found success in larger urban centres, and particularly with newcomers to Canada. But Kuang wants to expand to other cities and appeal to a larger demographic. It won’t be easy, but as she likes to tell franchisees, “No pain, no gain.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

A New Suite of Opportunities Three hotel & travel franchises have beaten the odds, coming out of the pandemic stronger than ever BY KYM WOLFE

n 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic devastated traveldependent businesses without warning, including three Canadian-owned franchises: Choice Hotels, Realstar Hospitality, and Uniglobe Travel. But bouncing back from closures and restrictions, the pent-up demand for both business and leisure travel led to 2022 being a banner year for all three franchises. And representatives from all three brands say that as we head into 2023, there’s no sign that demand is going to slow down any time soon.

Even though staffing continues to be a challenge, especially for brick-and-mortar businesses like hotels, there is growing recognition of the value that a franchise system can provide, including tools for on-boarding and training, ongoing coaching and education, and a built-in support network of peer owners who can share strategies for attracting and retaining staff. Businesses around the world have embraced technologies that enable meetings to be conducted virtually, but there is still a need for some business to be conducted face to face. After being confined to virtual communication for so long, more and more companies are finding it valuable to meet with clients in person, to establish and strengthen working relationships. Increasingly, these three franchise systems are seeing a blending of business trips with leisure (bizcations or bleisure travel), meaning longer stays, a demand for more amenities and services, and opportunities for existing franchisees to expand or for new franchisees to enter their franchise systems.

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

A NEW SUITE OF OPPORTUNITIES

Graham Marsh, national director, franchise development for Choice Hotels Canada.

Choice Hotels Canada From Victoria, British Columbia to St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, hotel guests have come to expect a friendly, affordable, and comfortable night’s stay with Choice Hotels Canada™. A global franchise with Canadian roots that go back to 1955, Choice provides highvalue lodging options ranging from limited to full service, in the economy to mid-scale markets. With more than 330 hotels in Canada, Choice offers domestic and international travellers rooming at several price points through its eight different brands, including Comfort™ hotels and the Ascend Hotel Collection®. Guests have their choice, ranging from economy to upscale, including extended-stay suite accommodations. For franchisees, Choice offers a portfolio of well-segmented brands optimized to deliver results for owners. “We’ve had excellent growth, both leading up to and through the pandemic. We’ve opened or signed agreements for 68 new locations since 2019: 58 conversions and 10 new builds,” says Graham Marsh, national director, franchise development for Choice Hotels Canada. Choice has a presence in 207 markets across Canada, and Marsh says there are always opportunities for new franchise locations from coast to coast. With respect for each franchisee as a business owner, Marsh says Choice’s Canadian team works closely with owners to give them personalized guidance and tools to enable profitability. “There is a lot of ongoing support, from orientation sessions and Choice University (a personalized learning system of online training modules), to easily accessible digital marketing tools, revenuegenerating resources, regional meetings, and a diverse national corporate team, with a dedicated help desk to answer any questions.” During the pandemic, a number of independent hotel operators explored conversion, as they were experienc-

ing supply chain issues, and recognized the value of the support and education a franchise system could provide. When a prospective franchisee wants to convert an existing property, Marsh and his team will analyze unique opportunities specific to the location and its rebranding as a Choice Hotel. “We want our new franchisees to find the right hotel brand for their property and geographic location, and we provide guidance about what we think would be the best fit for long-term success,” says Marsh. Some of the proprietary tools available to franchisees are ChoiceADVANTAGE, an innovative, cloud-based property management system; ChoiceEDGE, an industry-leading global reservation system; ChoiceMAX, a mobile-first revenue management system; and Choice Privileges®, an award-winning loyalty program. Revenue is driven by both leisure stays (typically sports tournaments, weddings, and other personal events) and business trips (typically workers whose jobs take them away from home on a regular basis). On the business side, Choice regularly responds to national requests for proposals from government and corporate accounts, giving its franchisees a competitive advantage for those reservations. “We strive to help owners capitalize on both the shortand long-term opportunities in hospitality,” adds Marsh. “With the cyclical nature of our industry, it’s important for us to constantly evolve to support the needs of our hotel owners and help grow their businesses.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

A NEW SUITE OF OPPORTUNITIES

Irwin Prince, president and COO of Realstar Hospitality

Realstar Hospitality With more than 145 properties operating under three different brands, Realstar Hospitality caters to both leisure and business travellers, and offers economy, premium economy, and value-focused extended-stay accommodations. The company is currently expanding through both new builds and conversions of existing properties that are looking to rebrand. “Typically, conversion is substantially less costly than new-build construction,” says Irwin Prince, president and COO of Realstar Hospitality. He found that during the pandemic, franchises became more attractive because of the guidance and support they could provide, as well as offering assistance with procurement, while other hotels dealt with supply chain issues. Prince sees two main factors that continue to drive conversions. “With a brand comes the kind of discipline that means consistent and uniform standards that work to enhance the value of a hotel,” he says. And secondly, “Travellers tend to be especially cautious of the unknown. Brands deliver instant recognition; guests know what they can expect.” Prince cites brand awareness, loyalty programs, and the proprietary reservation platform as three of the company’s greatest strengths, along with the corporate support team, “our full contingent of dynamic, Canadian-based hospitality professionals.” Because Realstar is focused solely on Canada, Prince says “We know the market. We provide guidance and assistance to our franchisees in all areas, including training and quality assurance, global and national sales, marketing and advertising, operations support and purchasing excellence, and revenue management and e-commerce.”

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

A NEW SUITE OF OPPORTUNITIES

The pandemic accelerated the use of technologies that continue to be used today. That includes customerfacing tools to provide remote access to customer service, and mobile and self-service apps that help personalize guest stays and provide cost-effective management of operations. It also elevated cleanliness from being an invisible expectation to a very visible certification, says Prince. “Health and safety, and the welfare of our guests and our hotel team members is important. We now have

our housekeeping staff working where guests can see them, so they can see our commitment to provide highquality standards of cleanliness.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

A NEW SUITE OF OPPORTUNITIES

Martin Charlwood, Uniglobe president and COO

Uniglobe Travel A family-owned travel management company that first opened in British Columbia in 1981, Uniglobe now has a presence in 60 countries across six continents. Since his father, Gary Charlwood, founded the business, Uniglobe’s purpose has remained the same, says Martin Charlwood, current president and COO: “To drive our clients’ success through better travel. When our customers are successful, we are successful.” Traditionally, two-thirds of Uniglobe revenues come from small-tomedium-sized businesses, while the remainder is made up of individual leisure clients. This year, with an uptick in travel for both business and leisure, there have been inevitable glitches for travellers to contend with, and dealing with an agency like Uniglobe brings peace of mind. “Now more than ever, travellers want to know there is someone to call, and that someone is there to help,” says Charlwood. If there was a silver lining to the pandemic, for Uniglobe it was the time provided to re-engineer its systems so franchisees can run and manage their businesses more efficiently and with fewer resources. Technology certainly played a part in that, says Charlwood. But there was also a shift in mindset for employees, many of whom continue working from home or have moved to a hybrid schedule, combining home and in-office work. “Going forward, there will be less brick-and-mortar, which typically will result in lower overhead costs,” says Charlwood. Charlwood describes his father as a pioneer in Canadian franchising and says that over time, Uniglobe has developed “industry-leading technology

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

A NEW SUITE OF OPPORTUNITIES

“They don’t have to be hands-on in the business as a travel agent, so long as they hire licensed agents to work for them, but they ought to be sales and marketing oriented, focused on attracting new customers to the business.”

and methodology, comprehensive training, marketing tools, ongoing PD [professional development], and guidance on the best way to conduct business.” New franchisees may come through the conversion of an existing travel agency; they may be trained travel agents who want to work from home as independent contractors (those can also be attached to an existing Uniglobe centre); or they may be aspiring entrepreneurs looking to get into the travel agency business, says Charlwood. “They don’t have to be hands-on in the business

as a travel agent, so long as they hire licensed agents to work for them, but they ought to be sales and marketing oriented, focused on attracting new customers to the business.”

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

Expanding Your Franchising Horizons Key legal considerations to help you grow to multiple franchise units

here are many important things you should consider as you explore franchising as a path to business ownership. The franchise business model allows you to be a small business owner in your local community, with the support and system of a strong brand behind you. Beyond deciding what type of franchise you’d like to own, whether it’s a brick and mortar, home-based, or mobile business, and in what category, you should also have a strong sense of the specific franchise model you’d like to explore before you make a final investment decision. What are my franchising options? Single-unit franchising: Many franchisees choose to start with single-unit franchising, which means they purchase a single franchise location. In this case, a franchisee signs a franchise agreement for that location, usually assigned to a specific area, or territory. Multi-unit franchising: A single-unit franchisee can then choose to purchase an additional franchise unit to become a multi-unit owner. They can purchase another unit in the same franchise system, or they can purchase a unit in a different system, which is a newer trend in franchising. There’s even a term for this: MUMBO (multiunit multi-brand operators).

Area development: You can, however, also choose to purchase more than one franchise unit right from the get-go. In an area development agreement, a franchisee signs on to develop multiple franchise units within the same territory. This method is often used as a way for franchise systems to expand into new territories, as it allows them to rely on the franchisee’s familiarity with the territory and local connections. Ready to learn more about multi-unit franchising? Let’s explore some of the legal considerations, with insights from Allan Dick, Partner, Litigation Group with Sotos LLP. Dick has extensive experience with multi-unit franchising, and outlines what you need to know as you explore expansion to more than one franchise location. What are the benefits of owning multiple franchise units? Dick notes that many operational efficiencies come with operating multiple units within the same brand, including reducing management expenses for each unit, having access to additional trained employees as you need them, and reducing training expenses as you add more units. You also have the benefit of investing in a brand you already know and can increase your chances of suc-

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

EXPANDING YOUR FRANCHISING HORIZONS cess by choosing additional locations based on your experience in the system. Other major advantages include “increasing your influence in the franchise system when adding units in the same system, and potentially increasing negotiating power when dealing with the franchisor and suppliers,” explains Dick. “Franchisees may also be able to negotiate reduced initial fees when buying multiple units.” When it comes to adding units from different brands, Dick says this provides diversification, which helps to reduce the risks associated with operating a franchise. When you invest in multiple brands, you also have the advantage of learning best practices from different systems, and can apply this knowledge across all of your units. Finally, adding more units “increases the value of the entire enterprise, including for purposes of obtaining loans and investment,” notes Dick.

“There are genuine reasons why franchisors include cross-default provisions, but often one location will fail for reasons that are not reflective of the operator’s abilities, financial situation, or attitude to the system. A franchisee should not be dependent on the good graces of the franchisor not to act on a cross-default provision in these circumstances.” When should I consider whether I want to own multiple units? Dick advises that prospective franchisees should have clearly defined goals before they start on the path toward expansion. For many, this should come before they even make their initial investment decision, when they should know if they plan to purchase multiple units in the form of an area development agreement, or will be looking to purchase additional individual units. “For the single operator looking to expand, the operator should have a first unit that is very successful and would continue to be with reduced owner presence,” advises Dick. Dick also notes that franchisees should proceed with caution when purchasing an additional unit. “When buying failed or distressed units or units for sale in the system, an investigation needs to be made into whether the market that the unit is servicing is strong and hasn’t been soured by previous bad operations,” he explains, adding that “It is very hard to turn around a business, even ‘under new management,’ if previous management damaged the market.”

What are the challenges I may face as a multi-unit franchisee? While there are clearly many advantages to expanding to multiple units, there can also be drawbacks. For example, while the franchise head office will provide extensive training before you open your initial location, they often won’t include multi-unit franchising as part of the training curriculum. This means you’ll need to determine your own best path forward and develop your own leadership style. While you can be very hands-on with your original franchise location, it’s impossible to give each location that same amount of attention after expansion. As it’s impossible to be in all locations at once, you’ll need to learn to divide your time between locations and to rely on your managers, instead of just on yourself. Dick also notes that there’s a general requirement from franchisors with additional franchise agreements in the same system that requires the franchisee to accept crossdefault provisions. “A franCOBS Bread is a community-focused business that offers a product chisee is at risk of losing our franchisees and customers love. Our model is proven, and we all units if only one fails,” are rising quickly. There’s exciting growth ahead -- join us, won’t you? explains Dick, noting that Inquire Today! COBSbread.com/franchising this provision should be negotiated by a franchisee.

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

EXPANDING YOUR FRANCHISING HORIZONS How do I know if I have what it takes to operate multiple franchise locations? Generally, Dick says, successful multi-unit franchisees look a lot like successful single-unit operators—they have excellent management skills, take an interest in their customers, have a good relationship with their franchisor, and follow systems well. “In addition, they are able to develop and manage an excellent management team capable of overseeing each location in the absence of ownership presence, who have earned the confidence of staff.” Dick adds that successful multi-unit franchisees focus on building value across their entire enterprise, and need to have access to capital and cash reserves. Plus, “for the multi-unit operator that has outside investors, it is critical that their internal legal agreements are prepared by experienced, sophisticated counsel.” What does a multi-unit franchise agreement look like? Will I receive a different agreement for each location? According to Dick, there are different ways to address multi-unit ownership. “The area development is its own type of agreement where the franchisee commits to opening a number of locations within a specific area

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within a specific time,” he says. “In some cases, there is a general development agreement and individual agreements for each unit. In other systems, one agreement will cover the prospect of additional locations being added. Usually, each location will have its own agreement to provide for the necessary length of time for each location to operate.” Dick also notes that depending on the jurisdiction, a franchisee may expect to receive disclosure for each additional unit within the same system. There are six provinces with franchise disclosure in place: British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. Is there anything else I should know before I finalize my plan for franchise expansion? It’s common for multi-unit operators to try to expand to a certain number of units with a plan to then sell or transfer the units. Dick explains that franchisees can face two obstacles with this plan. The first is that if the units are acquired over time, they may each have a different expiration date. “It is very important that when looking to amass units for this purpose, the franchisee has negotiated franchisee-friendly option/renewal rights, and may even have limited the franchisor’s rights relating to transfers,” says Dick. “Full-time and attention clauses need to be reviewed. They will be inapplicable.” The second obstacle is that purchasing a single franchise unit is like buying a job for a specified time. The typical franchise agreement, he says, is drafted based on the premise that the franchisee will operate its unit for the term and isn’t expecting to make a gain from a later transfer of the business. “A person looking to invest in multiple units is more likely to view the acquisitions as investments, which may and should include an exit plan. It is critical for the prospective multi-unit investor to have the benefit of sophisticated franchise counsel to ensure that the investor’s longer-term aspirations are achievable within the particular system under consideration and that those expectations are reflected in the business arrangement between franchisor and franchisee,” explains Dick. Stay tuned for the next article in our “Expanding Your Franchising Horizons” series, which will focus on the financial aspects of multi-unit expansion!

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

is pleased to present

a Special Franchise Focus on

Coffee & Baked Goods Franchises

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

SPECIAL FOCUS FRANCHISE ADVERTORIAL

Franchisees are Helping Maverick’s Donuts Expand Throughout Canada Maverick’s Donuts began operations in 2016 with one small location in the heart of central Ottawa, spending the first four years refining its recipes, and building a name in Ottawa for being the one true “Maverick” of the donut world. When the pandemic hit in 2020, Maverick’s opened its first suburban location in Ottawa’s west end with huge success. Our franchise program began in 2021 and as of October 2022, we have opened 10 locations in Ontario, and sold an additional 20+ locations in both Ontario and Alberta. Our donut shops offer 50+ unique flavours throughout the year, and we cater to weddings, corporate events, birthdays, and other special events. Freshly roasted coffee and soft-serve

ice cream round out our amazing products. Each month franchisees are given an updated menu, including ingredients and recipes. Our corporate office supplies professional photos and videos for franchisees to market their products online through our popular social media channels. Maverick’s offers a combination of cake and yeast donuts. Our unique recipes use no preservatives and are made with high-quality ingredients from Canadian manufacturers. Our coffee program keeps customers coming back with unique blends of fairly-traded, locally-roasted premium coffee and espresso. Maverick’s has also developed many sales channels for our franchisees to build their business.

Targeted proven programs with retirement homes, high schools, and local minor sports teams (hockey, soccer, etc.) are a great way to build sales and community partnerships. Our logo donuts are a huge hit for big company gatherings or small business owners doing something special for their clients. Customized donuts for weddings are always popular, especially when the toppings are matched to the wedding theme. As Maverick’s Donuts continues its Canada-wide expansion, we are looking for dedicated, energetic people who want to own and operate an exciting brand that appeals to people of all ages and all cultures. Full training and support is provided. Bank financing programs are available. n

If you are interested in joining Canada’s fastest-growing donut brand, please contact Jon Martin, VP of Franchise Development, to discuss our franchise opportunity in your area. Email: franchise@mavericksdonuts.com or 1-888-55-DONUT x113.

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

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

SPECIAL FRANCHISE FOCUS

Finding the Right Franchise Blend When you think about coffee franchises, there are certain names that likely come to mind. But the coffee and baked goods sector is much more than just one or two big brands. In fact, Canada’s coffee market is worth more than $20 billion, according to data from Statista, with coffee drinkers consuming about 2.7 cups per day, on average. Of course, there’s more that goes into the sector than just classic coffee. Don’t forget a little something sweet to go along with that cup of joe. That’s where baked goods come in. After bread, donuts are Canadians’ most beloved baked goods. In fact, Canada is the number one consumer of donuts in the world, with 43 million being served per month. Also, with new dietary preferences and food intolerances coming into vogue day by day, the coffee and baked goods sector needs innovative franchisees who are ready to incorporate new methods and flavours. So whether you want to supply quick mid-afternoon pick-me-ups, or an ornately made pump, drip, or swirl is more your flavour, the coffee and baked goods category offers strong franchise opportunities. Read on to learn why you should consider investing in one of these steaming-hot opportunities!

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

SPECIAL FOCUS FRANCHISE ADVERTORIAL

Good Earth Coffeehouse

Serving exceptional coffee and fresh, wholesome food, with a down-to-earth attitude since 1991 Coffee and espresso are the soul of every Good Earth Coffeehouse. Exceptional quality, sustainable farming, direct trade and small-batch roasting drive coffee selections, including Rainforest Alliance Certified and Direct Trade coffee. Good food is the heart of the brand. Attention to fresh, house-made food sets Good Earth apart from the competition. The menu includes baked goods and hot breakfasts, hearty soups and stews, fresh salads, sandwiches, and a variety of hand-crafted beverages. Good Earth is uniquely a coffeehouse with good food. People have gathered in coffeehouses for conversation, comfort, and community for centuries. Good Earth Coffeehouses are warm, friend-

ly, and inviting community-gathering places like the coffeehouses of old. “The human interaction in our coffeehouses is valuable—as valuable as the ethically sourced coffee and fresh food we serve. A coffeehouse is so much more than a drive-thru convenience,” says Michael Going, Founder and CEO of Good Earth Cafes Ltd. “Social interaction is part of being human. At Good Earth Coffeehouse, we get that.” Good Earth Coffeehouses now number over 50 locations from Victoria, B.C. to Halifax, N.S. Good Earth is growing with opportunities coast to coast, including locations in wellestablished bookstores. New sites offer excellent partnership possibilities for investors looking for multi-

unit franchises and for single-unit owner operators alike. The pandemic has awakened people’s desire to be in greater control of their lives, something that franchising with Good Earth has to offer. Good Earth seeks like-minded, qualified people and organizations to grow Good Earth Coffeehouse— a brand attracts like-minded people who want to better align their social and environmental values with a business. You can own a business that you’ll feel good about with Good Earth Coffeehouse. n

Serve your community with ethically sourced coffee, fresh wholesome food, and human connection! Locations available across Canada. Contact us to learn more.

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

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

SPECIAL FRANCHISE FOCUS

Canadians love their coffee:

The coffee market in Canada is worth more than

$24 billion (Statista)

Coffee

was consumed more often than tap water in 2020 (Coffee Association of Canada)

The favourite coffee shop chain in Canada is

Tim Hortons

One-third

of Canadians spent between $10-20 CAD on coffee in early 2022 (Coffee Affection)

through 2022

since their introduction

2.7 per cent

Quick service restaurants are expected to grow to

$37.4 billion through 2022

through 2022

(Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Sector Trend Analysis, 2018)

Bread is the most popular baked good, with Canadians spending

Quebec spends the most per household on bread of all provinces at

per capita annually

per year

$96.4 (Statista)

(Statista)

The inclusion of delivery apps has also driven coffee sales up

The baked goods counter is expanding, as well: 3.4 per cent

Canadians visits a coffee shop once every month

And the coffee market is still growing: It’s expected to grow

(Ibisworld)

The Canadian bakery product market is expected to grow at a rate of

Two out of every three

$210

(Profitableventure.com)

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

five per cent, (Coffee Affection)

SPECIAL FOCUS FRANCHISE

But in terms of sweet treats, Canadians love donuts above all: Donuts are the second-most popular baked good, with spending reaching

$28.9 per capita

Canada is the number one donut consumer in the world, eating

1 billion

The donut market is projected to grow by

annually, and serving

$6.8 billion

43 million

(Profitableventure.com)

through 2025

donuts a month

(Technavio)

(Reader’s Digest Canada)

Vegan donuts are gaining prominence at home and through

the U.S., so alternative baking methods like yeast-rising donuts are expected to become increasingly crucial to the sector (Technavio)

And more owners are meeting consumer demands and food intolerances: Gluten-free is the fastest-growing food intolerance category in Canada (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)

Meeting the demand for gluten-free products may be the biggest challenge facing today’s bakers. This is because more bakers are having to experiment with new (and expensive) alternative grains and flours to create gluten-free products that are flavourful.

Further healthy eating trends will continue to drive bakeries to market artisanal and specialty items.

(Bakers Journal)

There’s also increasing attention to celiac disease: Although only 1 per cent of Canadians have the disease, they represent an important and growing segment of the market for gluten-free products (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

Wonderful Waxes and a World of Opportunity Four salon and spa franchises share their plans for growth in 2023 and beyond BY GEORGIE BINKS

After two-and-a-half years of openings and closings, Canada’s salons and spas are back in the game. Not only are their customers ecstatic, but franchisees are also happy to welcome back their employees and clientele in need of pampering. For franchisees with the magic touch, here are four salon and spa franchises ready with opportunity.

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

WONDERFUL WAXES AND A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY

DermaEnvy Skincare Since DermaEnvy Skincare started in Dieppe, New Brunswick in 2016, the franchise has been growing. With 10 locations in five different provinces (the majority being in Atlantic Canada), it now plans to conquer Ontario and Western Canada next. “The franchise is a medical aesthetics, laser, and skincare franchise with a smaller-than-industry-average clinic footprint, specializing in affordable mid-market solutions,” says Cohen MacInnis, president and director of franchise development for DermaEnvy Skincare. Just like other franchises in the industry, he says, “The biggest challenges we’ve faced have been navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and associated closures and restrictions.” However, Alicia Apesteguy, director of marketing and operations, says the franchise’s rigorous protocols and sanitary procedures served it well, as did the fact that its clinics are smaller and more personal, reducing the risk of potential exposures. The franchise also adapted its website so clients could pre-purchase treatment packages and additional products from the comfort of their home. When it comes to potential franchisees, MacInnis says, “Our franchisees share a desire to provide great

service to their clients and what I refer to as ‘driven independence,’ while following the franchise system. We have franchisees successfully operating as multi-unit operators and other franchisees working as both the franchisee and solo service provider with the goal of expanding to additional service providers. With a passion for good customer service and a general understanding of good business practices, our franchise system is a great option both for aspiring and experienced franchisees.” He notes that training involves everything from business planning before the clinic opens to one-on-one franchisee training. To be successful, MacInnis advises that potential franchisees “be passionate and driven about your willingness to learn. Most anxiety or individual fears caused by a lack of industry knowledge or even business experience can be overcome by a driven individual with a willingness to learn.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

WONDERFUL WAXES AND A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY

Fuzz Wax Bar Some things were meant to be, and the creation of Fuzz Wax Bar is one of them. Florence Gaven Rossavik, cofounder of Fuzz Wax Bar, met Jessie Frampton within one week of landing in Canada from France in 2010. The two began commiserating about the sorry state of Canadian wax bars and from there, a great idea was born. “We saw an opportunity to start something super new, fresh, [and] probably very successful because the concept was completely proven already in the States and Europe,” says Rossavik. Fuzz Wax Bar is a membership-based waxing-only salon. The pair opened the first location in 2012 and started franchising in 2016. The franchise now has 16 locations, with two opening soon in Vaughan, Ontario and Edmonton, Alberta. “The biggest benefit to franchisees is entering into a niche business,” says Rossavik. “There’s one type of service, one type of training, and a small inventory. The franchisee and their team can quickly master all the processes.” Building and retaining staff are constant challenges, as was the pandemic. Rossavik says, “It was devastating. Apart from shutting us down, making supplies

[and] the cost of building and opening stores more expensive, it made us focus on what really matters. We’ve tightened those systems—a lot of positive came out of that negative.” Rossavik says despite the challenges, she loves being a franchisor. “It’s a very female-oriented industry, female led, female staffed. There’s a big sense of community in the industry.” Right now, Rossavik says Fuzz Wax Bar is focusing on growing the brand in Canada and bringing on the right people slowly and steadily. She says the franchise offers strong support both pre-opening and through the introduction stages. An ideal Fuzz franchisee needs to be positive, openminded, and growth oriented. Rossavik advises, “as a franchisee you’re opening your own business, but you’re not opening it yourself. Take advantage of the support.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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

WONDERFUL WAXES AND A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa When John Marco, a physical therapist with a passion for health and wellness, started Hand & Stone in 2004, he saw an opportunity to bring spa and massage services to the masses in a retail shopping environment, at an affordable price point, with convenient hours. The name, Hand & Stone, and logo were the brainstorm of his 14-year-old son Nicholas. “The name represents the tools of our trade for our signature service, the hot stone massage,” says Anita Wells, senior vice president, division general manager Canada. “Our logo [the Stoney character] honours Indigenous people with their deep history of working with healing modalities.” Wells says the franchise offers guests and membership clients massage, facial, and hair removal services, all under one roof. The biggest benefit for franchisees, she says, is that they’re invested in a growing industry. “Consumers have increasingly recognized the importance of health and wellness, particularly over the past two challenging years.” The biggest challenge that the franchisees face, says Wells, is staff recruitment, which is a common theme among most business owners.

During the pandemic, massage therapy was considered an essential service, which allowed the spas to reopen quickly, and stay open. The franchise took a partial hit during the pandemic, when esthetic services weren’t allowed to be performed. Wells says they offered clients virtual facials, home delivery of skincare products, and at-home facial tips, all examples of the many ways the brand pivoted to address the business challenges of the pandemic. Going forward, Wells says, “We will continue to target the middle market with wellness services—massage and facials, with a goal of making skincare 35 per cent of our service mix.” Wells believes that customer service and employee management skills are key attributes to run a successful franchise. An ideal franchisee should possess ambition, drive, and passion to own a business of their own and to help others in their wellness journey.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

WONDERFUL WAXES AND A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY

THE TEN SPOT It wasn’t just the smooth bodies and pretty nails everyone was missing when the pandemic hit. Kristen Gale, CEO and creator of THE TEN SPOT, says it was also the fun. “We started out doing hair removal and nail services in a peppy and fun social environment—lots of highenergy music and movies playing.” When stringent pandemic restrictions hit, locations were shut down. The franchise helped franchisees deal with landlords and get government support before restrictions were eased. “For franchise owners, it was a relief to have staff back at their bars and have guests coming in,” says Gale. “Having human contact was a huge thing.” “Our strategy was [to] do whatever we could, hold tight, and make sure when we opened, we could maximize getting as much revenue back in the door as possible. To that end, it was making sure our staff and customers felt really safe. We had a lot of PPE and reconfigured our stations,” adds Gale. THE TEN SPOT started 16 years ago with one corporate location, then four more corporate locations. In 2012, the brand started franchising and now has 43 locations in Canada and four American states.

The franchise originally offered ongoing beauty services—manicures, pedicures, and waxing—and has recently launched laser services. “We really look for female entrepreneurs to get into this industry, candidates who are as passionate about the brand as we are,” says Gale. The franchise offers great support and a robust training program. She notes that staffing is always an issue, but franchisees benefit from access to a really strong operational support team, as well as a marketing team for brand and local promotion. Gale says for success, follow the system. “Our bestperforming locations are those where they want a system created and they want to follow it. They want to find success.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK Find your next opportunity with one of the CFA’s newest member brands

As you explore the world of franchising, you’ll find that there are seemingly endless opportunities across a wide range of categories. But which one is right for you? Are you more of a foodie, capable of elevating a drive-thru or sit-down to a delicious experience? Or perhaps a yoga or education franchise is more your speed. No matter your interest or acumen, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) has new members across the country eager to build their profile and make connections with prospective franchise owners like you. See a standout opportunity that you’re ready to pursue? Head to LookForAFranchise.ca for more information.

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

AFYA Skin and Body Clinic AFYA Skin and Body is a wellness, health, and beauty-oriented clinic, spa, and lounge. The AFYA name comes from the Swahili language, meaning health. AFYA focuses on innovative treatment protocols utilizing the latest technology and effective client care that drives results through luxury service offerings. The brand offers services such as soft esthetics, laser hair removal, clinical skin treatments for concerns like wrinkles, acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation, as well as body contouring, injectables, female pelvic health, wellness programs, and retail products.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Bamboo World Kitchen Limited Bamboo World Kitchen was created so people with similar values could eat outstandingly delicious food, feel good about what they ate, and the environmental impact of their choice. In its culture of harmony, the brand cares deeply about its guests, its dedicated and caring staff, and its community.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

BÀCARO Pizzeria BÀCARO Pizzeria is a neighbourhood restaurant styled after the pizzerias of Venice, Italy. The open plan kitchen lends to the relaxed and inviting atmosphere, while delivering wood-fired pizza and Italian specialties to patrons. BÀCARO Pizzeria is the ideal place for a well-deserved drink after work or later in the evening. BÀCARO offers several wines that come from Italy and the beers are a mix of imports and brands from here. And let’s not forget that it serves the best Nutella pizza, salads, pasta, and desserts in town!

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Big Rig Brewery Three simple phrases are at the core of Big Rig Kitchen & Brewery: good beer, good friends, good times. Big Rig Brewery is a microbrewery committed to serving the best beer and a menu of comfort food favourites. Big Rig has been turning heads in both the restaurant and beer markets. Its forward momentum attitude towards growth and recognition across Canada is why they guarantee you’ll love their beer.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Big T’s BBQ and Smokehouse Big T’s BBQ & Smokehouse is a southern-inspired, awardwinning, family owned and operated BBQ restaurant. Its rubs and sauces are paired with traditional BBQ meats, then slowcooked and grilled to perfection. Its meat is purchased locally, and the food is smoked and prepared on site. Big T’s offers a variety of specialty items ranging from fried pickles to fall-offthe-bone ribs, and its famous platters.

Bin Masters Bin Masters is an innovative waste management solution that enhances corporate environmental responsibility. Bin Masters franchisees use specialized equipment to reduce waste volume in bins by as much as 60 per cent, saving business owners money on reduced bin rotations. Bin Masters services also protect the environment through decreasing the number of trips taken by hauling trucks and reducing landfill capacity.

In 2020, Leslie Gardner and Andrew Spears joined forces to open a fast-casual restaurant in Airdrie, Alberta. This franchise model is a smaller footprint with the focus on quick service, casual dining, and takeout. They are currently working on opening Big T’s in the communities of Mahogany, Creekside, and West Hills in Calgary, Alberta and expanding into Red Deer and Edmonton next year.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Blo Blow Dry Bar

Bombay Frankies

The original blow dry bar! Blo Blow Dry Bar started the no cuts, no colour concept, opening the doors to its first location in 2007 in Vancouver, B.C. The team put its passion and expertise to work, propelling the Blo brand to new heights. In 2009, it re-launched Blo as a franchise system and began recruiting a stellar team of franchise partners who believed in the power of the blow out. After opening several more locations in Canada, Blo expanded to the U.S. in 2010. The Blo Blow Dry Bar franchise has over 100 locations. Blo takes great pride in being the original blow dry bar and takes its role as the industry’s innovator seriously. Blo’s creativity and passion have led it to become the world’s largest blow dry bar franchise.

Bombay Frankies is a chef inspired Indian street food concept. Bombay Frankies was developed by Eat Up Canada in partnership with celebrity chef, restaurateur, cookbook author, and TV personality Vikram Vij to bring this new and exciting brand to life.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Bombay Frankies is named after India’s all-time number one street food, the frankie roll, which originated in the city of Bombay. Specifically, the frankie is a handheld, burrito-style flatbread wrap called a paratha, filled with meat or vegetables and incredible Indian spices and sauces.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

British Swim School

Buster’s Pizza & Donair

British Swim School is Canada’s premier learn-to-swim program, offering water survival and stroke development instruction to infants as young as three months up to adults well into their sixties, and all ages in between. British Swim School has leveraged a proven franchising model to become a leader in the $5 billion Learn to Swim School industry.

Buster’s Pizza & Donair restaurants appeal to the person who desires real and perceived value for money spent while dining out and eating on the go. Buster’s Pizza & Donair business owners receive extensive support from a team of dedicated professionals, from site selection and lease negotiations, to training and assistance with the grand opening. Additionally, owners will be assisted in advertising with local and regional advertising and marketing.

This is a low investment and easily scalable model, with the added bonus of being a purpose-driven brand providing a lifeskill to your community. Backed by multi-brand franchisor, Buzz Franchise Brands, British Swim School helps franchisees dive in!

Only fresh, quality ingredients and spices are used to develop one-of-a-kind pizzas and donairs. Buster’s Pizza & Donair items are made to order, ensuring the freshest flavour possible. Pizza delivery and takeout outlets are located in prime locations. The menu features pizza, donairs, chicken wings (all baked on site), cold drinks, and salads. The preparation for menu items is all done in-house daily, so sauces and toppings are always fresh.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Carlos & Pepe’s

Chocolato

Since 1984, Carlos & Pepe’s has been proudly serving Montreal authentic Mexican favourites and keeping the fiesta alive with rockin’ Mexican-style cocktails, shooters, and cerveza, of course! The fun, party atmosphere, explosive music, and avantgarde decor with vibrant colours inspires a carefree feeling of fun and adventure. Carlos & Pepe’s brings the flare and flavours of Mexico with a wide variety of menu options welcoming to guests of all ages. The menu is filled with family favourites, from sizzling fajitas to cheesy quesadillas and tacos loaded with unique toppings. Whether dining with family or friends, Carlos & Pepe’s prides itself on making it an exciting experience, para todos!

Chocolato was founded out of a true passion for chocolate. Each store offers an experience at the crossroads between the dairy bar and the chocolate factory, inspired by the most prestigious Italian chocolate shops. Pure, quality ingredients were the inspiration and basis for Chocolato products. In addition to having 20 choices of chocolate dips at all times, Chocolato was a true pioneer in being the first to offer a year-round dairy dipping experience.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Chorizo Fresh Mex

Copper Branch

Chorizo Fresh Mex opened its doors in 2005, and sells burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and other Calexico favourites. Chorizo Fresh Mex currently has four locations; three are franchised and one will remain a corporate location.

Welcome to Copper Branch, leading the food revolution. Enjoy a 100 per cent plant-based menu with a wide selection of meal choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Copper Branch focuses on being as non-GMO, gluten-free, locally sourced, and organic as possible. The system requires no grilling or frying, and the franchise team can train anyone to operate the concept in two to three weeks. Be empowered in a concept that promotes food with the highest ethical and environmentally responsible standards for all.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Coyote Ugly Saloon The Coyote Ugly Saloon is a chain of bars (some with restaurants) founded in the United States and now expanded into five countries. It is known for, among other things, its bartenders, who not only pour drinks, but also perform choreographed dance routines on the bar top.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Discovery Centre International Launched over 40 years ago, Discovery Centre International has built a reputation in the global science centre community as a leader in innovation. After years of hearing corporations and philanthropists all over the world ask “how can I have a science centre in my city or country?” Discovery Centre International has launched its franchise offering to extend the brand and the science centre concept around the world. “We are the only Science Centre Model to bring a revolutionary, turnkey, packaged science centre model to cities and countries around the world,” says Dov Bercovici, CEO of Discovery Centre. “The biggest problems we face in society today can be solved by science. We firmly believe that every city, every state or province, and every country needs a Science Centre. So we have taken our highly successful model that we have built over 40 years that delivers both a high social impact and a high return on investment, into a model to help educate the world on science and its value in our society today.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

DKI Canada

Dr. Foot

DKI Canada is the leader in the Canadian property restoration industry, with 80 locations from coast to coast. DKI Canada provides property restoration services to insurance, commercial, and residential clients. DKI Canada actively contributes to creating a better future through environmental protection and social responsibility. DKI is committed to using environmentally sustainable cleaning products and mitigating risk in environmentally sustainable ways.

Dr. Foot Inc.’s head office is located in Toronto, Ontario. Dr. Foot Inc., including the operating companies, has proudly created numerous jobs around the world and employs over 300 people through all branches of the clinic. The brand works closely and collaboratively with all levels of suppliers, custom-made orthotic production companies, and health care providers. Dr. Foot Inc. provides promotional tools to Dr. Foot and Healthy Shoes brand franchisees through creative marketing strategies and advertising to promote the brand and ultimately increase revenue. Dr. Foot believes in strong work ethic and in providing exceptional service with integrity and respect. The brand is fully committed to working together closely and collaboratively with all business associates to secure and ensure success and a smooth transition into your Dr. Foot business.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Enoteca Monza

eSupply Canada

Family is at the heart of the Italian culture. Sharing in good food prepared by Nonna (grandmother) and raising a glass with homemade wines from Nonno’s (grandfather) cellar are cherished memories for the Italian chefs behind Enoteca Monza. In honour of their family, the chefs have created a concept based on simplicity, authenticity, and integrity with family recipes passed down through generations.

eSupply Canada is an online distributor of office, janitorial, and industrial supplies, providing a locally based alternative to the big-box retailers. The dropship model means there’s never any advanced purchasing of inventory or warehousing, and its fulfillment partners provide you with national reach to any home, office, or job site. eSupply is seeking franchisees who are sales oriented, love building local relationships, and are looking for a home-based business with an exciting mix of active, passive, and residual income.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Expense Reduction Analysts (Canada) Ltd.

Fitness Machine Technicians

Since 1992, Expense Reduction Analysts (ERA) has helped thousands of businesses find hidden cash flow and improve operational efficiency in over 40 expense categories. Its consultants bring forth expertise, real-time industry benchmark data, and practical insider knowledge for dozens of supplier industries. ERA’s risk-free model means the cost of doing business with the brand comes from a portion of the savings it finds. If the consultants do not find savings, there is no fee for the services.

Fitness Machine Technicians is the leader in exercise equipment service and repair. It is a national franchise serving the U.S. and Canada with both commercial and residential clients. An especially attractive feature of the franchise is the potential for residual income through recurring preventive maintenance contracts. Clients range from corporations, colleges/ universities, hotels, apartments/condominiums, health clubs, government agencies, property management companies, physical therapy centres, the residential market, and more. The opportunities are endless for this simple, low-investment model!

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

FranServe

Free Form Fitness Inc.

FranServe, Inc. is the world’s largest franchise consulting/ broker organization. It’s comprised of highly experienced franchise professionals dedicated to helping others achieve their dreams of business ownership through franchising. The FranServe team shares an incredible 100+ years combined experience in the franchise industry. Its core values anchor in integrity, growth, and teamwork. FranServe’s 600+ professional brokers work with people every day who are in the market for a lifestyle/career change.

Free Form Fitness was started in 2006 and has grown to six locations. The brand is an exclusive personal training facility and a very good business if anyone is looking to franchise in the fitness industry.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Forex Cargo Travel & Tours (iCargo Xpress) Filipino migration is a dream for every working Filipino, and we always look back to our families and loved ones in the Philippines by sending balikbayan boxes full of groceries, clothes and bags, shoes, and other essential items which fulfill the silent wishes and build strong connections among us. iCargoXpress unites Filipino overseas in sending boxes to the Philippines.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Globe Accountant and Financial Services According to Statistics Canada, the accounting industry is about a $20 billion industry. Canadian immigration is welcoming more immigrants to Canada through their work permits, permanent residents, students, business visas, and refugee status, giving more scope for the accounting business.

Ghost Kitchens Ghost Kitchen Brands (GKB) has partnered with famous restaurant brands, iconic consumer packaged goods companies, and the most innovative technology companies to create the most advanced and scalable Ghost Kitchen concept. GKB has locations across Canada and the United States that focus on third-party delivery, as well as standalone, interior mall, and big box locations where walk-ins and pickup are fundamental. Ghost Kitchen Brands reaches consumers when, where, and how they want their favorite eats.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Go Oil Canada Inc. Go Oil is Canada’s largest mobile vehicle maintenance provider. With over 25 franchises across the country, businesses and individuals can book appointments online or by phone to have their fleets or personal vehicles serviced around the clock. Go Oil’s mission is to provide an effortless experience, compatible with all lifestyles.

The areas of accounting practice involve bookkeeping, personal, corporate, and not-for-profit taxes, payroll services, auditing, business registration and incorporations, among other disciplines. Globe Accountants and Financial Services Inc. (GAAFS) is now offering franchise opportunities to people interested in starting their own accounting services business to take advantage of these growing opportunities. GAAFS is a 100 per cent owned subsidiary of Iyer’s Accounting Services Inc. (IAS). In view of the growing business demands and expectations, IAS has opened the franchise doors through GAAFS. Full training and support will be provided. Experience is not necessary.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Hangry Piri Piri Chicken Hangry Piri Piri Kitchen isn’t your mom and pop’s traditional Portuguese kitchen. Hangry infuses authentic Piri Piri flavour into its favourite dishes, offering a contemporary twist on sandwiches, tacos, poutine, and more, while only using fresh, never frozen whole chicken. It aims to use local, fresh ingredients in all menu items. When hanger strikes, visit the coop to try the kicked-up version of Portuguese hangry chicken.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

International Workplace Group (IWG plc) IWG plc. is the leading global workspace provider with more than 3,000 business centres across the globe. IWG has built an unparalleled network of office, co-working, and meeting spaces for companies to use in every city in the world. The network of workspaces enables businesses to operate anywhere, without the need for set-up costs or capital investment. It provides customers with immediate cost benefits and the opportunity to fully outsource their office portfolio. Designed to enhance productivity and connect 2.5 million like-minded professionals, it’s an instant global community and a place to belong.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Jima Cannabis

KINTON RAMEN

Jima Cannabis is a B.C.-based recreational cannabis company, founded with a vision to combine technology, retail operational excellence, and customer experience together to form the foundation of a modern cannabis business. Islands have a strong reputation for their attractive lifestyle and calm mindset, an attitude that the cannabis retail brand seeks to embody. Its rapid expansion plans include the rest of Canada, and the U.S. Jima will partner with current and future store owners and operators who are navigating the licensed cannabis industry.

Established in May 2012, KINTON RAMEN was one of the first Japanese ramen restaurants in Toronto. Led by executive chef Aki Urata and a team of professional ramen chefs, KINTON strives to offer its guests an extraordinary dining experience every time. Using the freshest ingredients to make the best quality noodles and broths, KINTON invites guests to taste its exceptional ramen bowls right down to the last drop.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

La Belle & La Bœuf / Beauty & The Beef A leader in the world of burgers, La Belle et La Bœuf offers a unique menu with premium quality ingredients. Made from incomparable, 100 per cent natural Certified Angus beef ground chuck, the meat is never frozen and has no hormonal additives. La Belle et La Bœuf is the first restaurant in Canada to incorporate mixology and tabletop gaming. The restaurants offer a variety of premium alcohol-based cocktails concocted by internal experts. La Belle et La Bœuf also has a wide selection of local and international beers specially chosen to create perfect pairings with the amazing dishes. The unique décor is a tribute to the early 1970s. An anarchist sports bar concept in the image of the revolution for peace era that won’t make you dazed, but will keep you serene and happy!

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Lava Grill From the Grill ... to your plate! Lava Grill is a fast casual restaurant concept serving 100 per cent fresh and healthfocused cuisine in an inviting, contemporary environment. Lava Grill’s kitchens are devoted to bringing high quality, flavourful food to as many communities as possible. Combining authentic flavours from across the Mediterranean with family recipes that have been developed from generation to generation.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

La Chambre The atmosphere of a sports locker room is pumped with adrenaline, comradery, and a contagious, electric energy. The team spirit, shared passion, and love for the game can be felt amongst all team members. This euphoric ambience was the inspiration of this sports driven concept known as La Chambre. Created by sports fans, for sports fans, La Chambre is dedicated to providing its customers with the best sports driven atmosphere, with a promise of a great meal. Known for its gourmet poutines, succulent chicken wings, nachos loaded with all your favourite toppings, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and mouthwatering burgers, the menu is tacked with the best of the best! La Chambre doesn’t stop at having the best food; it also brings you the best beer. The lineup of micro brasserie beers is simply legendary! Locker room fun doesn’t end after the game, it goes into overtime at La Chambre!

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Les Rotisseries Au Coq / Benny Rotisseries Au Coq was founded by a family who values the importance of sharing a meal with loved ones, resulting in a quick service concept for you to grab dinner on the go. Au Coq serves locally sourced, grain-fed, air-chilled, never frozen poultry. Au Coq prides itself on fast takeout and delivery service, as well as comfortable and casual dining areas. Consistently delicious chicken, ribs, and sides combined with affordable prices is why Au Coq customers are so loyal to this brand. Additionally, Foodtastic offers the Rotisseries Benny franchise with quick service (express), traditional, and combination structures.

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

L’Gros Luxe

Little Yogis Academy

L’Gros Luxe is now Montreal’s most popular neighbourhood restaurant. To enhance the unique character of the areas they serve, Alex Bastide shuns sameness, opting instead to create personalized restaurants that meet the local community’s needs. Unlike typical restaurant chains, L’Gros Luxe adapts to its environment. Antique chandeliers and mirrors mingle with portraits of our ancestors, creating a distinctive and warm atmosphere in each establishment. And the welcoming staff is sure to make you feel right at home! Friendly and attentive, every employee—in the dining room, behind the bar, and in the kitchen—adheres to the owners’ eco-responsible and unifying values. Their vision? To bring total luxury to the masses with their comforting and affordable menu that prominently features vegetarian dishes, without neglecting meatier fare. Everyone should be able to enjoy L’Gros Luxe!

Little Yogis is a leading mobile yoga and mindfulness enrichment program for kids. The brand’s tagline is ‘Positivity & Movement for Busy Minds’ as it aims to improve physical, mental, and emotional health through exercise curriculum. Its mission is to make yoga and mindfulness practices accessible to children globally. Little Yogis provides yoga, mental health, and wellness workshops for everyone within your community including childcare, schools, and families.

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As a franchisee, you will be given all the tools to duplicate the brand’s success: training, use of trademarks, marketing support, operations systems, proprietary curriculum, custom supplies, and coaching to help you succeed as a business owner. Join a community of passionate business owners who are making a difference in the lives of children every single day.

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Mad Radish

MakerKids Inc.

Mad Radish has made it its mission to provide every neighbourhood with consistently high-quality fast food, supporting the environment, the team members, and the wellbeing of customers. It has created a menu that’s nourishing, flavour-packed, and fully customizable. The internationally inspired hearty bowls, burritos, and salads are served up in plant-based packaging in a clean and welcoming environment. The brand features an expert balance of high-quality recipes with simplicity and replicability, ensuring that all workers can deliver a consistent customer experience. Mad Radish’s strong digital presence and centrally managed social media set it apart from other Canadian QSR brands. The online ordering tools are cutting edge and provide the brand with critical customer insights and communication channels. Join Canada’s most exciting new healthy fast food restaurant team and own a profitable business you’ll be proud of.

MakerKids develops maker learning programs for kids and adults, and runs the first and largest makerspace for kids in the world. The Board of Advisors includes Dale Dougherty (CEO of Maker Media, MAKE Magazine, and Maker Faire) and Massimo Banzi (CEO of Arduino). The brand provides amazing interestdriven STEM programs to help kids move from being consumers to creators. Its three main offerings are currently: weekly programs, camps, and birthday parties.

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Mamma’s Pizza For 65 years, Mamma’s Pizza has been Toronto’s favourite pizza, founded by Lidia Danesi in 1957. Lidia grew up in the Tuscany region of Italy. She came to Canada, bringing Italian recipes passed on to her from her family. Lidia was often seen preparing pizza in the window, and customers called her Mamma, Queen of the Pizzas. Mamma’s Pizza has been passed on to the second and third generation and today it is corporately held, with franchise locations across the GTA, and is now spreading its wings across Ontario.

Maple Bear Global Schools Maple Bear is an international education brand with over 500 schools in over 30 countries. Every Maple Bear school follows a detailed turnkey curriculum developed from the ground up to reflect the very best in Canadian education, from preschool immersion programming to elementary K-12 (bilingual format). Canadian education experts offer year-round support, training, and annual quality assurance visits. Maple Bear is a proven franchise model across the globe, with over 15 years of experience.

Since the beginning, the dough has been made daily on the premises, along with fresh homemade sauces. Mamma’s Pizza offers customers a choice of two styles of pizza, traditional and gourmet. Also on offer are fresh homemade pastas, meat, and chicken dishes, as well as a selection of hot sandwiches and fresh salads. Come join the Mamma’s Pizza family.

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Milestones Grill + Bar

Musicworks Canada

Milestones has been a leader in the casual fine-dining space in Canada for over 30 years by doing things a bit differently. Built on value, hospitality, comfort, and familiar food with a twist, all served up in an atmosphere that is the perfect backdrop for good people and good times. A warm and approachable place for celebrating milestone occasions, enjoying Sunday morning brunch, grabbing drinks with friends, or satisfying that preshow craving.

Become a part of Canada’s fastest-growing music-centered education franchise and expand your knowledge in business! Musicworks Canada is a sustainable franchise model born from a passion to teach people how to build wealth. Every school has an all-inclusive offering, from lessons to retail to instrument repair and maintenance, and AI-driven math and coding programs that provide students with a well-rounded education. With a low start-up cost of around $200,000, and detailed analysis that supports growth, Musicworks’ mission is to guide ordinary people to professional success and the freedom to build the future they want. It has put in time and effort to make Musicworks accessible to anyone; all new franchisees receive ongoing training and support and an analysis package to understand every step in the process.

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

MVP Modern Barbers

Nickels Delicatessen

The barber shop that is revolutionizing the franchising industry! MVP Modern Barbers’ barber shop franchise is a smart investment with affordable start-up costs, low operating costs, and excellent growth potential. Here’s why the MVP Modern Barbers team thinks this is the perfect franchise: you don’t need to be a barber to own an MVP Modern Barbers franchise—if you are new to business, that’s OK, the franchise will show you everything you need to know—and the leading-edge software runs everything for you from CRM/POS/marketing to payroll.

Don’t change a classic! Yes, Nickels’ smoked meats are the best in town, but the restaurants also serve burgers, sandwiches, poutine, milkshakes, and many other options for any appetite! For your health-conscious friends, great salads and grilled meats will be appreciated. Even the little ones will be delighted, with a kids’ menu offering all the choices they love. And how about a nice big piece of Celine chocolate cake? Gather with family and friends at your local Nickels to satisfy your craving for a great smoked meat sandwich or choose from many other menu options including burgers, sandwiches, poutine, milkshakes, salads, pastas, and much more. Nickels looks forward to seeing you for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

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O’Botz Canada

PerCurra

O’Botz is a multi-disciplinary robotics program with a specially designed curriculum to teach young children about robotics. STEM learning is the building block of this program, allowing children to think scientifically and evolve technically. The program utilizes hands-on activities to engage a child’s curious mind. Children learn to experiment, innovate, and build robotic models and machines throughout the seven progressive levels of the course.

Why choose a PerCurra home care franchise? PerCurra is an award-winning ‘care at home’ company offering an extensive range of services to all adults who require support to live their life their way. PerCurra markets these services direct to the users and, with many individual contracts rather than a few local authorities, has minimized the financial risk. The services are for people with a range of needs due to learning or physical disabilities, mental health, or other health issues.

Children learn to explore the limitless possibilities in their imaginative mind. They build robots, make intelligent circuit connections, and build functional models that foster analytical thinking, creativity, and develop children into exceptional problem solvers. O’Botz’s practical approach encourages children to implement techniques and tools necessary for building projects. It strives to make STEM learning a fun activity that keeps children involved and enables them to encounter challenges. The whole process develops better cognitive abilities and allows children to think outside the box of learning and imagination.

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Perk Hero Software Inc. Perk Hero offers a unique franchise business at an attractive start-up price. Through Perk Hero, franchisees can offer restaurants, retail, and any small business with a brick-andmortar location, a solution that provides the convenience of mobile payment combined with a powerful digital loyalty program that empowers them to create, market, and measure real-time mobile offers and rewards to loyal customers. Each local business pays a modest monthly fee for access to tools such as order by QR, QR code payment, multiple payment methods including Alipay and Bitpay, push notifications, digital loyalty, and the ability to reach new customers through the Perk Hero App and online marketplace. All franchisees have access to Perk Hero’s online portal, which provides powerful analytics, merchant management, promotional tools, and support and training.

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Pest Detective Corporate Canada Pest Detective Corporate Canada (PDCC) is the leading provider of pest control services throughout the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. It currently has eight franchises operating 14 locations. PDCC manages a call centre handling an average of 5,000 calls per month. The customer service representatives at PDCC use specialized CRM software to book services and then dispatch to technicians in all franchise locations. PDCC provides in-house and online training for franchisees and technicians to hit the ground running and continue to learn best practices. The capital investment for a prospective franchisee is low and largely comprises the franchise fee and a late model truck outfitted with a lockable canopy and complete with inventory and equipment. Marketing and social media is managed by PDCC. There are available regions in the Lower Mainland, Interior, and Nanaimo in B.C. and throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario.

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Phenix Salon Suites

Pokeworks

Already a booming business sector in the U.S., Phenix Salon Suites offers a paradigm shift: co-working spaces for selfemployed professionals in beauty, health, and wellness. Phenix buildings offer 30 or more fully separate, small suites for rent on a month-to-month basis that each professional can decorate to their own taste. The 330 Phenix locations in the United States enjoy a thriving community of hair, nail, skin, massage, and lifestyle professionals. Ranging in size from 4,500 to 8,000 sq. ft. in retail or first floor commercial buildings, the concept offers a better alternative for customers and professionals. For the franchise owner, there is a nice return on investment, with no employees or inventory to manage. With empty retail space, the redevelopment of malls, and new millennial housing, the Salon Suites model has many opportunities for new locations in Canada.

Pokeworks is the world’s largest and leading fast casual, premium poke brand. Pokeworks provides a super-fresh, healthy, craveable take on traditional poke bowls, burritos, salads, and sides. The brand serves only the highest quality, sashimi-grade sustainable fish, proteins, freshly cut veggies, and hand-crafted sauces.

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Prime Pubs Fionn MacCool’s first opened its doors in 1996 in Hamilton, Ontario and has since expanded across Canada. The inspiration for this collection of pubs came from the founder’s trip to Ireland in the early 1990s. The unique culture and hospitality found in Irish pubs called “Craic” is the essence of Fionn’s. It’s about connecting with people, sharing a story and a laugh while listening to some live music over a perfectly poured pint and great food.

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Radius Apollo Investments, LLC Radius Apollo Investments, LLC has acquired the exclusive right to use the unique The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill systems and the mark for the development and operation of fast casual, quick service restaurants known as The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill Restaurant throughout the Ontario region.

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REACH OG Learning Centres Inc.

Royal York Property Management

REACH OG Learning Centres Inc. are academic remediation centres and Orton-Gillingham training centres that were formed to assist individuals who are struggling to learn to read or write, and provide high-level professional development to teachers. Specializing in the Orton-Gillingham approach to remediating language-based learning difficulties, the team has been specifically trained to teach reading, writing, and basic language skills to students who have difficulties acquiring these skills. As specialists in dyslexia and other learning difficulties, REACH provides unparalleled support to students and families navigating learning disabilities and other struggles with literacy. Additionally, REACH is the leading provider of certified Orton-Gillingham training and professional development to teachers across Canada. REACH supports its franchisees with high-level OG tutoring and intervention services to students in their community through each learning centre, and certified OG training to teachers in their region.

Royal York Property Management is a property rental and leasing firm, with a portfolio of over 13,000 properties, that offers guaranteed rental income. Valued at $7.8 billion+ in real estate assets under management, the company is advancing technology in its processes and systems, and is expanding globally. With 15 office locations across Ontario, Canada, and Europe, the company is leading the potential in property management, and surpassing the client experience by having all departments operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

School of Rock Franchising, LLC School of Rock is an education trailblazer with its revolutionary, performance-based model of music instruction. It is a rapidly growing education franchise with over 300 locations across 15 countries. Through a combination of one-on-one lessons, group rehearsals, and live performances, students develop mastery of music theory and proficiency. The patented approach has helped more than 50,000 aspiring musicians of all ages and skill levels hone their talents and build confidence through rock n’ roll.

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Shawerma Plus Asem G. and Baraat K. opened the first Shawerma Plus quick service restaurant in 2012. One year later, they were joined by Jawad G., who helped the team grow and scale to regional leader status through catering large orders, growing the online ordering systems year-over-year, simplifying the menu, and bringing the operation up to speed with world-leading QSR brands. Today, this tri-city favorite is a multi-awardwinning restaurant, with 57+ awards amongst shawerma lovers and foodies. Their easy-to-operate systems, unified simple menus, and expert leadership all combine to create the perfect franchise opportunity. They are now ready to bring the Shawerma Plus brand to several other cities in Ontario (and beyond) over the next few years.

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Shoeless Joe’s

Skill Samurai

Shoeless Joe’s Sports Grill breaks away from the stereotypical casual dining experience. Get familiar with the concept and you will quickly understand that Shoeless Joe’s is something vibrant and unique. It is all about sports. It is all about the fan. It is all about providing the Ultimate Fan Experience. Imagine being able to share in the experience of thrilling, seat-gripping sports moments; Shoeless Joe’s Sports Grill makes you feel like part of the big game. It’s the top sports-centered restaurant concept in Canada. It aims to deliver the Ultimate Fan Experience by creating an environment that celebrates all sports, all the time. Shoeless Joe’s Sports Grill cares about its guests and pours passion into creating innovative food and drink options. Its disciplined approach and obsession for the brand consistently delivers leading financial performance for its restaurants and for its franchisees.

Canada’s original coding franchise; the only STEM franchise to offer both brick and mortar and mobile programs to elementary through high school students. Skill Samurai’s year-round programs, summer camps, and learning labs prepare students for college, internships, and careers in programming, game development, design, and robotics. The franchise offers a proven business model, five revenue streams, low start-up costs, family-friendly work hours, and great training and support in a growing industry.

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Slab Burgers

Sola Salon Studios

Slab Burgers specializes in customized, fast-grilled, homemade burger products and service. Its service has offered speedy and reliable performance throughout the years. Its products are among the best in Toronto, as per most customers, and they have a high percentage of return customers. Founded in 2011, Slab Burgers is dedicated to offering the highest industry standard and most efficient solutions to the fast-grilling, homemade burgers sector. Various customers recognize the reliable and speedy service, from residents, students, tradespeople, professionals, and many more.

Named the number one salon studios franchise and a Top Global Franchise in 2021 by Entrepreneur Magazine, Sola Salon Studios offers a proven real estate rental model that requires minimal staff and drives unparalleled occupancy and retention rates. With over 17 years of salon studio expertise, the team offers industry-leading support in market analysis, site selection, integrated marketing expertise, training, and ongoing education. Sola Salon Studios is poised and ready for growth throughout Canada, with desirable territories available.

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Soulful Delish Healthy Cafe Soulful Delish Healthy Cafe is an innovator and the absolute leader in the booming healthy fast casual food industry. Today’s customer has an insatiable, growing appetite for nutritious, delicious food and drinks. Soulful Delish is perfectly positioned to meet this demand, providing guests with an extraordinary health experience unlike any they’ve ever tasted. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing mid-afternoon smoothie or a hearty meal, every item out of the fresh kitchen has unmatched flavours and health benefits, always made fresh to order, right in front of your eyes. Soulful Delish only uses natural ingredients of the highest quality.

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Souvlaki Bar The place for the freshest, most delicious Greek food in town. Souvlaki Bar Greek Restaurants are reminiscent of the seaside tavernas on the islands and along the coasts of Greece. Come and enjoy a delicious meal with the family or have drinks and mezzes with friends. Quality and freshness are at the heart of Souvlaki Bar. A vast selection of authentic Greek food awaits. This franchise is available as a full service or quick service restaurant.

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Subway Subs of Canada Limited

Taco Boyz Fast casual and quick service Mexican grill.

Subway, the world’s largest submarine sandwich franchise with over 42,000 restaurants in 112 countries, takes pride in offering one of the most reasonable, well-structured franchise programs available. There are over 3,100 restaurants in Canada. The SUBWAY concept is a low-investment, simple operation serving delicious fast food. Famous for its made-to-order sandwiches and salads prepared in front of customers, SUBWAY offers various breads baked daily and also offers a breakfast and catering menu.

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Tenmay 16 Investment

THE TEN SPOT

Tenmay16 Investment Corp. has a strong team with sound business acumen as well as in-depth industry knowledge and experience in the health care, food, and beverage industry. The company recently acquired a pharmacy and supplement store with a series of private label natural health products and plans to establish a franchise structure to quickly promote its brand name products and expand its outreach across B.C. and Canada. The goal of the company is to grow into a profitable amalgamation that provides its target customers a one-stop, well-rounded and comprehensive solution to their need for a healthy, sustainable, and socially responsible lifestyle. It believes that franchising would be a good option to attract entrepreneurs with the same vision and relevant skills to join this noble cause.

THE TEN SPOT has created a niche concept that blends the best of the luxury spa world with the convenience of the salon world to cater to what busy women want most: impeccably executed, efficient services in an ultra-clean environment. THE TEN SPOT offers manis, pedis, facials, waxing, and laser in the fastest, cleanest, and coolest anti-spa in the business. THE TEN SPOT created the “anti-spa” beauty bar concept in 2006 and was the first on the scene to offer efficient yet impeccable services and execute thousands of impeccable services every week. Its goal has been simple: bridge the gap between upscale spas offering over-the-top services and at the other end of the spectrum, the cheap and oftentimes questionable chop shops. This niche has been the sweet spot for THE TEN SPOT for the past decade.

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

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Tommy Café

UROSPOT

Tommy Café has its roots in the heart of Old Montreal, sharing the neighbourhood’s charm, European flair, and inviting spirit. Tommy Café was born with the vision of creating a welcoming atmosphere, in a quaint setting, with the promise of a chill vibe. A balanced blend of modern design, mid-century furniture, and Victorian architecture, you can’t help but fall in love with Tommy Café.

UROSPOT is a private urologically focused clinic that provides freedom and confidence to women and men struggling with bladder leaks, urgency, night waking, prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. UROSPOT helps clients strengthen their pelvic floor using the Kegel Throne. This Health Canada and FDA approved chair is an innovative medical device that does over 11,000 kegels for you while you remain fully clothed. Nothing goes inside your body, and no one is touching you. The team of pelvic health experts provide world-class education, health coaching, and the innovative treatment to help you say goodbye to bladder leaks, urgency, and pads. UROSPOT is disrupting pelvic health and becoming the number one destination for pelvic floor strengthening in Canada. This is a one-of-a-kind franchise system that brings joy to clients’ lives every single day.

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Vertika Design

VIP Lube

Vertika Design is a wall covering installation company that provides turnkey services. Vertika Design offers a full range of services to meet finishing needs like bricks, wood walls, and green walls. Whether it is for home, office or business, Vertika designs give rooms character with original coverings. Vertika Design encourages the local economy with materials made here.

VIP Lube is a super-fast, no appointment necessary, new car warranty approved oil change experience. Any garage can provide an oil change service, but do they offer genuine VIP service? VIP Lube stands out from the competition with its old-fashioned values and service, all while keeping up with the current technological trends. At VIP Lube, highly trained staff are there to help, explain, and educate customers on the important preventative maintenance a vehicle requires. Their expertise and knowledge will provide customers with peace of mind. With over 20 years of experience in the quick lube industry, the group decided to create a brand with a culture where everyone is treated like a VIP: the customers, the team members, the franchise partners, and the suppliers.

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

Water Babies

WAXON Laser + Waxbar

Water Babies is the world’s leading baby and toddler swim school, with 69 franchises around the world teaching over 50,000 children each week. Founded on passion, professionalism, and a drive to provide the best start in life for swimmers, Water Babies constantly revises and improves its programs with experience and science in mind. Its franchises also offer an incredible underwater photography program and a high-quality retail service that keeps its swimmers comfortable and its pools clean and running.

WAXON is Canada’s number one hair removal destination, providing the smoothest experience for all your hair removal needs every time! From waxing, laser, and brows, to tinting and lash lifts, WAXON specializes in efficient, high-quality, and affordable services for everyone. Joining the WAXON family of franchise partners means becoming part of an established brand and having access to a proven turnkey model, and the best training, systems, and products in the industry. If you are passionate about owning your own business and interested in being part of a successful brand in the personal care industry, the team at WAXON looks forward to meeting you.

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X-Golf Canada

Zebra Robotics

X-Golf is an indoor golf simulator and entertainment franchise that features the world’s most advanced golf simulator technology. The X-Golf franchise model offers an exciting business opportunity for those ready to pursue a new venture in a unique, non-saturated, developing sports and entertainment industry. The indoor golf simulator venues are market-leading, sophisticated, socially interactive locations. Food and beverage services are streamlined to create low overhead, high-margin opportunities for franchisees. This is all backed by state-of-theart, innovative virtual reality technology.

Zebra Robotics is a pioneer in providing quality training to students in the field of robotics and coding. The brand’s innovative approach to STEM education equips students with the skills and knowledge required to have the upper hand in a fast-paced, technology-driven future. Robotics, coding, and technology are the future of education. With over 11 million jobs that will require STEM-related skills in the next five years, this is a perfect time to start your Zebra Robotics franchise.

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

HOME-GROWN & LOCALLY-OWNED

100% CANADIAN FRANCHISE SYSTEMS

An innovative idea, a unique concept, and an unfilled need in the market are crucial to franchise success, irrespective of the service or product. These systems have certainly taken those three essentials to heart, and go a long way to ensuring a flying start for prospective franchisees. BY DAVID CHILTON SAGGERS Pest Detective

The bites, scratches, and chew marks that appear on wires and along baseboards are sure signs of an uninvited houseguest. They are pests. Every homeowner wants to get rid of them, and that’s where Pest Detective comes in. “From ants to raccoons, we deal with them all,” says Matt O’Neill, vice president of sales and marketing at Pest Detective. Chris Frederick, the president and founder, spent four years after university with his brother’s pest control firm, says O’Neill, before launching Pest Detective in 1986 in North Vancouver, British Columbia. Since then, the company has grown to eight franchises serving 14 markets in the province. Next comes expansion into Edmonton, Alberta and the St. Catharines, Niagara region of Ontario. A Pest Detective franchise can exist in small population markets, but a minimum population of 70,000 is ideal. Franchising for Pest Detective evolved naturally, O’Neill explains, with Frederick selling franchises to friends who expressed an interest in owning one. It was all very “hands off,” he says, although the company now prefers “hands-on” investors. They make up about half of the system’s franchisees, with “hands-on” owners having dual roles as owner and pest control technician, for which a provincial licence is required. About 80 per cent of Pest Detective’s customers are residential, says O’Neill, so good customer service skills are essential. “We look for those who have experience in roles where they’ve interacted with others. Our repeat business is averaging 51 per cent.” He’s also

interested in more mature investors—aged about 35 to 50—seeking both men and women, and who are likely to stay in the business. Training takes three weeks, with franchisees spending two weeks on a “ride-along” with a Pest Detective employee, learning how to exterminate unwanted insects and to trap and release skunks and raccoons. Pest Detective can be home-based, as well. Franchisees will need a truck wrapped in corporate colours, and $5,000 for inventory, such as bait and pesticides. They will also need enough working capital until their franchise hits about 75 per cent capacity, usually within the first six months. As for the pandemic, “We were unsure of what was going to happen, but COVID was good to us,” says O’Neill, explaining that people working at home became more aware of household pests and the numbers of rodents grew as downtowns emptied out. It meant that from 2020 to 2021, the system experienced 20 per cent revenue growth. Among the benefits of a Pest Detective franchise, O’Neill concludes, is the low cost of entry and a mostly recession-proof business: pests show up irrespective of the economy.

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

Pacini Italian Restaurants

Pacini Italian Restaurants began with one small restaurant in Quebec City some 40 years ago. Now, Pacini restaurants can be found as far west as Calgary, Alberta and all over Quebec, including its base of operations in Montreal. This growth developed through the franchising that began in the 1990s, explains Laflèche Francoeur, executive vice president, as he drives between locations in the system’s home province. There are now 24 Pacini franchises, eight of them operated independently as restaurants inside hotels, a practice Francoeur says raises the brand’s profile and makes it stand out. As for expansion, he says, “Our next target is the Greater Toronto Area. We open in Mississauga this year.” This growth will follow the system’s plan of opening dine-in restaurants, five to six thousand square feet in size. Every restaurant in the chain has the same look and feel, Francoeur explains, but there are some differences in the menus, adapting to what’s available in the region. In Alberta, for example, there are more items that feature beef. Like many dine-in restaurants, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the system hard. “Takeout was not part of our DNA,” says Francoeur. “We had to start from scratch, learn to deal with aggregators [such as DoorDash],

but we had amazing sales on takeout.” And in a unique pandemic-prompted move, Pacini used the kitchens in many of its restaurants to make BeaverTails pastries as a way for franchisees to generate revenue. Sales were all online and the desserts became a permanent fixture at 10 Pacini franchises. “Because of COVID, we ended up so much stronger,” says Francoeur. The franchise investment ranges from $1.5 to $1.8 million. Training in two corporate stores lasts four to six weeks, depending on the franchisee’s experience. As for the benefits of franchising with Pacini, Francoeur notes that the restaurants have a unique concept with a head office that already knows what franchisees need to compete, given its 40 years of experience. There is also a good ROI; and operating in a hotel can be mutually lucrative for the franchisee and the hotelier alike. Among the qualities he looks for when assessing a potential franchisee, Francoeur says he considers attitude, passion, and financial acumen because “Pacini investors are real investors, real businesspersons.”

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

Prep ’n Sell

Prep ‘n Sell started with ambitions similar to other successful franchises: an original idea to fill an unmet need. David Collier spotted that need in 2002, when he was in the cleaning industry in Toronto. The need was, he says, a service to prepare residential homes for sale by decluttering, doing handyman fixes, painting, renovating, cleaning, staging, and landscaping—whatever a home needed to make it appealing to potential buyers, and lucrative for sellers. “Our business is all around the home sale transaction,” says Collier. He began franchising the brand in 2015, with the first Prep ‘n Sell franchise in Oakville, Ontario. There are now seven franchises across the Greater Toronto Area and Southern Ontario; in Vancouver, British Columbia; and in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Collier, president and founder, hopes to expand to 15 or 20 franchises across Canada by the end of 2023, and has his eye on the whole Canadian market. People who buy a Prep ’n Sell franchise actually receive two brands for the price of one. Alongside Prep ’n Sell for home sellers, the RENOmagic brand is marketed to home buyers and homeowners wishing to renovate a home they plan to stay in, and want a reliable company they can trust. While Collier notes his franchisees are mostly men, husband-and-wife teams have also been very successful, and says, “we’re getting a lot of people coming out of the trades who are attuned to renovations.” When he meets potential franchisees, Collier says he looks for people skills. They need a customer service mindset, sales experience, and leadership ability. They should also have experience dealing with renovations. Training takes three to four weeks, with asynchronous online training, plus one-on-one training via virtual meetings. If candidates are located nearby, the individual sessions can be done in person in Toronto.

The $35,000 franchise fee also includes marketing materials and start-up package with literature to advertise the system, plus a corporate “wrap” for the franchisee’s own vehicle. Apart from that, franchisees need only a smartphone and a computer. Collier also notes that managing changes through the pandemic was difficult. “It really did play havoc with us for quite some time.” He had to juggle changing COVID protocols in multiple jurisdictions, and the curbside pickup of renovation items was a “crazy” experience. During the worst of the pandemic, Prep ’n Sell waived its minimum royalty payments for 20 months and held weekly support meetings. However, Collier says the market for real estate and renovations has bounced back and done nothing but go up. Collier adds that the benefits of a Prep ’n Sell franchise extend well beyond the usual advantages of franchise systems, such as brand presence and recognition, group buying power, a proven system, and being in business for yourself, but not by yourself. In addition, he notes that Prep ‘n Sell franchisees enjoy the model’s low ongoing overhead cost, and support from corporate when it comes to digital and social media, and research and development. “Then there are the intangible perks of being part of the Prep ‘n Sell family: our culture of support, mutual respect, and the free exchange of ideas and feedback both ways between our head office team and our franchise owners.”

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING

LICENSE TO THRILL Driverseat’s 20-year-old franchisee Abiahjit Kular is gearing up to open nine territories in his B.C. community BY STEFANIE UCCI

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NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING

ranchise Canada has always sought out stories of inspiring entrepreneurs who made their dreams come true with franchising. Most find themselves at pivotal moments along their journey: the first year, multi-unit expansion, milestone moments, and more happy success stories. But for new Driverseat franchisee Abiahjit Kular, the success story starts at the very beginning of franchise ownership: in the first months before a franchisee officially opens their doors, when excitement is high and opportunities are fresh. As Kular explains, his journey in franchising may be in its infancy, but his success as an entrepreneur is years in the making. Start your engines As a 20-year-old, Kular is firmly a member of Gen Z, and he certainly fits the profile for the next generation in franchising. But don’t let his age fool you—he recently secured nine Driverseat territories across B.C. and is ready to take on any challenges that come with franchise ownership. “Driverseat’s goal is to become the household name in transportation,” Kular explains. “We’re looking to provide for people that need group transportation from events and locations such as winery tours, airport shuttles, wedding transportation, and Care+ for the vulnerable sector, including the elderly and children. This is a service that is needed extensively in our region. There’s absolutely no private shuttle services here and there’s been a large demand for them.” Each of Kular’s nine territories has about 100,000 people within it, which is how Driverseat determines its distribution. He owns one territory each in Abbotsford, Mission, and Chilliwack, with two in Langley, and four in Surrey. He’s starting with opening Abbotsford, Mission, and Chilliwack, followed by the other six locations in the coming year, focusing on servicing these smaller markets and growing the business steadily over the next 12 months. At the time of writing, Kular is in the preliminary stages of obtaining his licence from the B.C. Passenger Transportation Board, but anticipates making his first trips by the end of this year. “As soon as I get my licence, I’m super excited to get my chauffeurs (drivers) going. You can’t provide group transportation for a fee without a licence, so we could do all these trips for free, but we want to charge our service fee, of course.” He’s the second franchisee to open in British Columbia, as another franchisee officially launched their services in Kamloops, B.C. in October. Shifting gears Like many others before him, Kular had a big decision to make when he decided to pursue business ownership through franchising. And with brief stints in other

businesses behind him, it speaks to the nature of success that franchising can provide to aspiring entrepreneurs. During his first year of university, Kular started a small sports academy, which he’s been growing ever since. “I love doing it and I’ve grown it to about 20 club teams now, which is awesome,” he explains. “Entrepreneurship has been something that I’ve always been a part of,” he adds. “In middle school, I was selling video games and candy out of my locker.” After finishing his third year of university, Kular decided to team up with his father, who has years of experience in the transportation industry. “Courier services, delivery, Uber, taxis: you name it and my father’s done it,” he says. “This opportunity [with Driverseat] came up and now that my dad has some free time, he wanted to start up his own business. He’s an immigrant from India and has tons of expertise in transportation, but he just needed some help, so we talked through this opportunity together.” When it comes to why he chose franchising over going into business alone, Kular says, “the main reason is just for all the guidance and resources I’m able to access. They have an established recipe that’s worked in multiple locations. Plus, they have great coaching and are able to help me whenever I need assistance. Having such a supportive team and great resources really intrigued me to go into franchising. I don’t think that if I went into business by myself, I would achieve as much success. They know what to do, and how to help me do it.” Pedal to the metal As any franchisee knows, the start-up process, from the first meeting, to signing papers, to official opening day, can take months (or years!), but the tools and resources can certainly make it worth the wait when compared to going the entrepreneurial route alone. “I could have never done this without the franchise system behind me. There’s so much to it—sales tactics, marketing tools, and many other resources to learn and develop. For example, our technology: we have a platform where we can track all the shuttle vehicles [on route], including a review on their level of driving for safety purposes,” says Kular when reflecting on why he chose the brand. He adds, “Just to have all this information, I feel like it’s been so crucial for me. Now if I have a problem, I have all these years of expertise and multiple people [to help me out]. They’ve taught me so much; it really does excite me how much more they have to teach me.” While he’s still in the licensing stage, eagerly awaiting the day they can officially open the doors and start the engines, Kular spends his days sending emails to other local businesses to create connections within his community. This networking will prove useful to get the word

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING

out to businesses such as wineries and breweries about how Driverseat can help fill a gap in the shuttle services within their areas. “Right now, my goal is to get the name Driverseat out as much as possible before we actually get up and running. Creating connections, trying to get the word out, making posts, things of that nature, to get people excited about the idea of [my business].” He adds that it’s fortunate that Driverseat has already established itself as one of North America’s fastestgrowing brands, as up-and-running franchises in other provinces have proven to act as connections and salemakers. “I’ve had tons of emails that say, ‘hey, I’ve used your service in Ontario, can I use it at your location now?’ Driverseat has done a lot already and having all these resources—it’s going to be really big for me while growing my brand.” Bracing for speed bumps With Kular being new to both the franchising and transportation industries, he knows he’s one of the youngest of the bunch and may have some obstacles to overcome along the way. “[Based on a] first impression, you may see that I’m a younger kid, and don’t really know if I have it in me to be able to persuade you to like the concept of Driverseat,” he explains. “So it’s been a challenge for me to mature a lot quicker [than my peers].” For example, while he could once show up to class in a hoodie, jersey, or any other casual outfit, now Kular says he really has to think about the attire he wears to business

meetings. How he presents himself is more important than ever as a business owner in a growing industry. But these challenges are nothing compared to the potential that’s to come. Kular notes that franchising inspires him by allowing him to provide people with the opportunity to make a living through his business. Driverseat’s shuttle buses are driven by qualified chauffeurs who must adhere to high standards, and it’s a great job to be employed in. “Something that I’m really eager to do is provide more jobs in an industry that’s very limited in our area,” he says. “I’m super excited about this unique franchise I’m going to bring to my hometown.” At the end of the day, Kular’s up-and-coming franchise journey is all about being bold—hence the nine territories under his belt. Reflecting on his high school yearbook quote—“If you’re not going to go all the way, why go at all?”—Kular says he believes that you need to go all in if you believe in the concept of a franchise brand. Which is exactly how he feels about Driverseat. “I truly believe in selling shuttle services; I need to believe in this idea to be able to pursue sales. And I do believe in it. If I’m going to do it, I’m going to do it right.”

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LEADERSHIP PROFILE

THE PILLARS OF SUCCESS Dan Steward gleans expertise from his previous career experiences in his role as president and CEO of Pillar To Post Home Inspectors BY ROMA IHNATOWYCZ

s a young man, Dan Steward, president and CEO of Pillar To Post Home Inspectors, was given a valuable piece of advice by his father that has stayed with him throughout his lengthy and successful business career. “Just remember you always work for Dan Steward, Inc.,” reflects Steward on the prudent guidance his father shared with him so many years ago. “You always work for

yourself, regardless of who is signing the cheque. So do the things you like to do and what you can be proud of.” Steward heeded that advice, most recently as the driving force behind the Pillar To Post franchise brand— a successful home inspection business with operations spread across North America. His decision to join the Canadian company was the crowning moment of a professional career climb that saw him work for a range of businesses, from Fortune 500 companies to small, familyrun businesses, both in his home country and abroad.

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

LEADERSHIP PROFILE

While it may be simplistic to refer to his progression as a “master plan,” Steward’s career path honed his skills at a diverse group of companies, resulting in a broad base of expertise and business acumen. He even worked on an assembly line when he was still a student, an experience he says gave him his first valuable business lesson: the importance of collaboration. “It’s about certain things coming in at one end of the factory, and the finished product coming out the other that somebody will buy, and in that process, you have to have collaboration between people,” says Steward. “There needs to be a collective ‘we.’” As a young business graduate, Steward felt drawn to experiencing a business at all levels. While his fellow grads made beelines to big firms, Steward opted for more hands-on experience at Sternson, a family-owned chemical manufacturing business, despite the lower salary. “It was an opportunity to see from the front door to the back door, to see how products got made, and how customers were taken care of,” he says. “I learned a lot about business there.” While employed by Sternson, Steward also had the opportunity to work overseas as its managing director for Europe and North Africa. Based out of London, U.K., he regularly visited construction sites across the European continent, as well as distant locales like Nigeria, Egypt, and Kuwait. Following that extraordinary experience, Steward completed a Master of Business Administration and decided to diversify his skill set by joining a large Fortune 500 company, Laidlaw, where he held a number of leadership posts. He then moved to the franchise-based Shred-It Group, where he held the position of executive vice president and COO, before moving on to Iron Mountain as a regional VP for the information management services company.

Shortly after, the opportunity to lead Pillar To Post materialized, and Steward knew a good fit when he saw it. “I’d worked in small- and medium-sized companies, and in big companies, and I knew that I liked small and medium better,” he says. “So now I feel like I’m actually where I intended to be—a smaller business, working with small business owners, and helping businesses do well in a very personal way.” While Pillar To Post may be smaller in scale than some of the big global firms Steward has worked for, it’s hardly small by most people’s standards, and has grown substantially under his leadership. When he joined the franchise as its president in 2004, the company had 220 franchise units; today, that number has more than doubled to 550. There are Pillar To Post franchises across nine provinces and 47 U.S. states. (Ninety per cent of the Canadian company’s business is now U.S. based.) As well, Pillar To Post units are doing double the volume of work and sales from when Steward first came on board. The recent softening of Canada’s housing market— with declining prices and fewer bidding wars—has benefitted the business further, as buyers once more insist on home inspections. “What was happening [earlier] was home inspections were getting waived,” explains Steward. “Now, even though the overall market is smaller, we are actually seeing a pickup in home inspections.” Introducing upscale inspections Pillar To Post was a very different operation when Steward first came on as president. It had recently been purchased by FirstService Brands from its original owner, an entrepreneur who had launched the company with the intent to sell, rather than operate it himself over the long term. As a result, says Steward, “I came in and found out that there wasn’t much substance in the business. We didn’t have a strong brand or brand experience. People

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LEADERSHIP PROFILE

in one part of the country were doing things one way, and in another part of the country, another. Some people would produce an eight-page home inspection report and others, an 80-page report. We had a collection of individuals who had taken our brand name, but with no real standards around what that meant.” Steward rolled up his sleeves and got straight to work. He focused on building Pillar To Post into the leading home inspection brand in North America, redesigning brand visuals and investing in improved training for franchisees. Then, when the recession hit in 2008, he made a couple of radical decisions. First, the company switched from small, exclusive franchise territories to large, non-exclusive territories. It then introduced a tiered mix of home inspections, something unheard of in the industry at the time, but copied by many competitors since. “We began offering Premium and Prestige home inspections,” explains Steward. “Some people said we couldn’t do it. But customers loved having choices, and our franchisees were making more money, [which] enabled them to hire more staff.” Earlier this year, the company took things one step further and launched what it calls the Ultimate Home Inspection—the Rolls-Royce of home inspections that takes the inspection to a whole different level. It provides measured floor plans, 360-degree views of each room, embedded comments, and the ability to zoom into key areas. It also includes photos of appliance manufacturer plates with information about their projected lifespan, access to their operations manuals, and even the estimated cost of replacement where necessary. “It’s a complete immersive experience,” says Steward. The Pillar To Post CEO also spearheaded a move to bring in more young talent, lowering the franchise fee from $40,000 to a bargain price of $15,000. “We realized we had a lot of really good people who were coming to

us who were younger, but they didn’t have the capital to get into the business and fund their start. Our business is all about the people, so we changed our franchise fee. We took it as low as we could, to what was essentially our break-even point.” Steward aims to find franchisees who get pleasure out of helping people and enjoy building and nurturing relationships. They also need to be committed to continuous improvement because, as he points out, “there’s always more to learn.” The company provides an initial eight-week training program, followed by 12 weeks of assistance postlaunch. Included in the training are the nuts and bolts of running a successful business and conducting a home inspection. New franchisees then have a start-up team that coaches them through their first year of business. Steward’s energy and enthusiasm for Pillar To Post and its business model is palpable, as is his ongoing passion for innovation and new ideas. Eighteen years into his role at the helm of the franchise, he shows no sign of slowing down. After a lengthy career honed at a varied mix of businesses, Steward is right where he wants to be. “In leadership, you need to know yourself well, what you’re cut out for, what you’re good at, and what you want to avoid,” he says. “All of that helped me to know that Pillar To Post is exactly what I am looking for at this point in my career.”

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

A DAY IN THE LIFE

NEW DAY, NEW CREATIONS No two days are the same for New Creations franchisee Darren Clark BY SUZANNE BOWNESS

n his 20 years providing specialized restorations with New Creations, Darren Clark has seen his share of everyday repairs, from cigarette burns in the family couch, to fixing the linoleum tear in the floor of an RV. But he also likes the “wow factor” and creative challenge of the unusual repairs that cross his path regularly enough to keep life interesting. Like the Goofy statue. “It’s probably one of the more unique things I’ve done recently, to restore a Disney statue of Goofy. You couldn’t get one in Canada and there would be $600 replacement

cost if you could even find one! So, we restored the statue. It was unique and strange and an example of how you don’t know what you’re going to get!” says Clark, owner of three New Creations franchise territories in Saint John, Fredericton, and Moncton, New Brunswick, that he operates under one business umbrella. While New Creations started in Portland, Oregon in 1988, the business moved to Canada when founder Larry Stevenson returned home. Franchising started in 1995 and today the company boasts more than 55 franchise locations across the country.

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

Opportunities for growth Clark joined New Creations in 2002 as an employee, working in various locations from B.C. to Calgary, before moving home to purchase the Saint John territory in 2013. He’s since built a solid business that has exceeded his expectations and even grew almost 200 per cent during the pandemic. While he started out handling repairs and managing the business himself, he now has three technicians and two office staff members. His markets have also expanded. Clark started out doing mostly furniture and automotive servicing, but now works in many other niches, from vinyl siding and windows to hardwood floors. He’s also grown his corporate clientele to the point that many businesses call him directly for repairs, from real estate corporations to used car dealerships and moving companies. In the beginning, he made it his mission to start building these connections, making a lot of cold sales calls and networking in the community. “It was scary at first. But then you quickly realize that you’re a benefit to them, which makes the sales kind of easy, because you’re selling something that can help them make more money or get them out of a jam,” he says.

He immediately outsourced the bookkeeping, but handled most of the other paperwork and business operations. Today, word of mouth is his primary way of getting business, as his services are so custom that it’s hard to advertise. Repairs happen year-round, although there is an uptick in calls about boats and RVs in the summer, and furniture in the fall (when people are home again to notice flaws in their belongings). Thinking back to his own start with the business, Clark says he was attracted to the creativity the job brings. While he graduated with an arts degree, he also didn’t mind working with his hands. “You get to restore all kinds of things, and it’s a skilled trade that you can’t learn in college,” he says. While his ideal employee wouldn’t need to have training, he says he does look for that creativity in others, someone with an artistic side or even musical talents. “A stubborn person who sticks with a problem tends to be better than the person who’s not a problem solver,” he says. “I generally look for someone who has a mind that thinks creatively outside of the normal parameters, because that’s what we’re asked to do very frequently. Doing the impossible is what I look for mostly.”

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

A DAY IN THE LIFE

“YOU CAN CALL ANYBODY IN THE COMPANY, AND THEY’LL HELP YOU IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR WITH WHATEVER YOU NEED. I FIND THAT REALLY HELPFUL, JUST THE WAY THAT WE FUNCTION TOGETHER.”

That’s because so many of the repairs they come across are unique. For example, when trying to figure out how to fix a leather car seat, there are traditional tools of the trade, but most repairs don’t go exactly according to plan when you consider the spectrum of furniture finishes and paints. “Artisan is a word you might use, or copycat artistry,” says Clark. The only definite criteria are that staff can’t be colour blind since colour matching is such an important part of the job, and generally they need to know how to drive a stick-shift for some of the custom automotive work. An empowering franchise community Clark’s typical day has changed over the years, as he started handing over responsibilities to his employees. When he hired his first employee, he passed along all his clients and focused on growing the business in other sectors like furniture. Because his focus is on specialized repairs, Clark now gets referrals from upholsterers (which he doesn’t do unless it’s specialized) and refers the basic work to them. In terms of hours, Clark generally works 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and gives his staff the same schedule. He takes all weekends off, which he considers another perk of franchising, as it gives him time to see his children. “You want to have a good income, but if you’re just always working all the time, what’s the point?” he says. His management style focuses on empowering his employees and he often hands over entire divisions or territories to their care; for example, his first employee now oversees all of the business’s automotive repair.

While the job is not sitting at a desk, it’s not as physical as people might think either, since restoration involves mostly working with your hands rather than heavy lifting. “It’s not physically intensive, but it is a physical job if you walk around, and you go upstairs and go into apartments,” he explains. In terms of challenges, the most common are complex jobs that don’t go as planned, in which case he just returns to fix the work, which solidifies his reputation. Clark admits he was nervous early in the pandemic, and did lay off one employee for about a month, but then hired him back immediately as the pandemic home repair craze started. Clark likes being a franchisee because of the independence, but also the community of fellow franchisees, which is particularly helpful when there’s a challenging repair. “You can call anybody in the company, and they’ll help you if you have questions or with whatever you need. I find that really helpful, just the way that we function together.” He appreciates that the franchisor provides training seminars every February to network and share new products. In terms of potential franchisees, Clark says that people who can trust their own skills and have faith in the franchise process do best. And as for repairs that he’ll take on himself, Clark is always looking out for his next Goofy.

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THE FIRST YEAR

Triple O’s Meets Ontario Vancouver’s historic burger brand Triple O’s plots its eastward expansion BY GINA MAKKAR C aptioin

Franchise Canada November | December 2022

THE FIRST YEAR

t all started with a man and his truck. In the roaring ’20s, the era of business innovation, moody jazz, and rousing sock hops, entrepreneur Nat Bailey converted his Model T into a travelling lunch counter and set up at a Vancouver lookout point. He went on to open White Spot, Canada’s first drive-in restaurant. The chain eventually expanded to include dine-in services, and in 1997, it opened its first quick service restaurant, Triple O’s, named after White Spot’s legendary secret Triple “O” sauce. Today, with more than 90 years in the food industry, the franchise serves 17 million guests per year at over 129 locations, with outposts across Canada and as far and wide as Singapore and the Philippines. In keeping with its mobile-friendly roots, Triple O’s also has five ‘On the Go’ food trucks. Franchisee Neil Turkington was working as a national food services manager for Parkland Fuel when he first encountered Triple O’s at a Chevron station. Turkington, who’d been exposed to a variety of quick service brands at stations across the country, was intrigued. “I just kind of fell in love with the brand,” he says. When the company began strategizing about expanding the brand to Ontario, things fell into place and Turkington became one of the first Triple O’s franchisees in the province. Before committing, Turkington’s wife insisted they taste the product. Still living in Montreal, Quebec at the time, they ventured to the closest location in Mississauga, Ontario when pandemic restrictions began to lift. “We ordered one of everything and sat in the parking lot and had a dashboard buffet,” he says with a laugh. By the end of the meal, she was sold. A move from Quebec to Ontario came at the perfect time, bringing them closer to their extended family postpandemic. “With everything going on in the world, a lot of people took a step back while for others it was a ‘no time like the present’ attitude. We’ve learned a lot from the pandemic,” he says.

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Though opening a restaurant at the tail-end of the global crisis raised a few eyebrows, Turkington was undeterred. “It was a bold move, and obviously, I didn’t have a crystal ball,” he says. His first location in Colborne, Ontario opened on April 1, 2022, and is conveniently located off the highway near the ‘Big Apple,’ a famous roadside attraction. With the flourishing local tourism and his love for the premium burgers, fries, and handscooped milkshakes, and casual and authentic West Coast dining experience, Turkington sensed the business was poised for success. The location soon flourished, and he recently opened a second site in Toronto’s North York suburb in September. Eastern awareness Despite being well known on the west coast, one of the brand’s challenges is garnering brand recognition in Ontario. “It’s non-stop, explaining what we are all about and what is special about us. It makes us brand ambassadors, me and my team. We’re helping build the brand here, and we’re excited to tell the story of Triple O’s,” explains Turkington. West coasters flocked to the Colborne location when they learned of the opening, lining up for a taste of home. “We’re a small town, and they never expected us to be here. Every weekend, we have people coming in. This is a taste of a lot of people’s childhoods. There’s such a big brand significance in B.C., it’s everywhere. It’s a taste of nostalgia.” Turkington says the opening was an unprecedented success, with much of the menu selling out quickly. “The community watched us being built for almost a year and were just waiting. The day we opened was probably the most insane restaurant experience I’ve had, and I’ve been in this business for almost 30 years.” Part of leading a pioneering brand is helping distinguish it from established restaurants in the market.

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THE FIRST YEAR

“There’s a lot more of building the business with brand awareness,” notes Turkington. “With the big brands, when you put an ad in the paper, employees know what they are applying to. I spend the first 10 to 15 minutes of every meeting explaining what we are all about because I want to get people excited about the brand. I spent most of my summer in my actual dining room just talking to customers and hearing their stories about White Spot, which made me feel better as a franchisee knowing I picked a brand that had that kind of customer impact.” In addition to serving 100 per cent fresh Canadian beef burgers, fresh-cut Kennebec fries, and hand-scooped milkshakes, Triple O’s also offers additional menu options to suit a variety of tastes. Fresh lettuce wraps, grilled chicken, and plant-based and vegetarian options cater to every lifestyle. “There’s a sense of pride that you can stand behind the quality of the product,” says Turkington. In an industry where taste and service are king, he endeavours to provide the best experience possible each and every time. “I want my guests to come back because they know they’re getting a premium product at a premium price, and they know they will eat well and that it’s fresh.” Growth mindset Turkington says despite the company’s larger size, he enjoys the collaborative, family-friendly feel. “You know everyone at head office by name and they know who you are. It’s a little easier when you’re taking such a big risk, bringing an unknown brand into the market. They really try to help you build that brand, so it feels like a partnership.” He adds that feeling supported and included really resonates and creates a sense of pride in the product they’re serving. The initial four-week training takes place at the Mississauga location, where franchisees learn the technical and hands-on aspects needed to grow the business. “I’ve been on the training side for other companies, so I got to see things from a different lens,” says Turkington. “It was interesting in the sense that I could see that I had a turnkey program for every little aspect of the business and was never left questioning what was next.”

He adds that with a seasoned background, he knew there would be less of a learning curve. He was surprised and pleased to learn that the steps he’d anticipated being responsible for were already taken care of by the brand. With a strong system in place, he’s confident that prospective franchisees without a restaurant background would fare equally well when investing in Triple O’s. He adds that a great team and unparalleled support during the first opening had a strong impact on the early success. The brand was adept at anticipating needs and providing additional training staff during the initial surge. “We were very well supported. By the time it tapered off and we got our legs underneath us and the volume slowed down, we knew the honeymoon period was over,” says Turkington. “We got more into some standard sales, and we felt a little bit more comfortable. All the while, we were constantly supported with check-ins.” He anticipates that as they continue to grow, sales will increase as brand awareness rises. The brand, after all, has received many accolades, including recognition as one of Canada’s most iconic brands and best managed companies by Interbrand Canada. “I’ve had early success, which is great, but it’s still going to be a long road to develop. It’s not a set-it-and-forget-it business.” Taking care of the business includes building long-term commitments with local guests to help propel the business forward. “This is a passion brand. I don’t think there’s a better term for it. You have to be passionate about it and want to tell that story because being passionate about anything goes a long way to success.” Turkington adds that it’s a hands-on job to build a team, and that good hospitality leads by example. “You have to push that kind of over-the-top service, or you know you’ll get what you get, so being present and just being involved is important.”

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Franchise Canada November | December 2022

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ICONIC BRAND

Hip to Be Square Wendy’s iconic burgers haven’t changed— but the brand is still leading the way in innovation BY JOELLE KIDD

ay back in 1969, brand founder Dave Thomas opened the first Wendy’s restaurant in Columbus, Ohio. Enter a Wendy’s restaurant today, and it won’t seem too far removed from that very first location more than 50 years ago—same all-beef fresh, never frozen hamburgers shaped into square patties, same creamy Frosty desserts, even the smiling likeness of Thomas’ daughter with her two red braids out front. But there’s another thing that’s been a part of the brand’s DNA since the beginning: innovation. “A lot of people don’t realize that Dave Thomas was actually the first quick service restaurant (QSR) operator to have a pick-up window,” says Paul Hilder, senior VP and managing director of Wendy’s Canada. “So, innovation is really at our core.” Whether it’s keeping on the cutting edge of technology, advancing how customers interact with the restaurant, or pioneering new ways to partner with potential franchisees, Wendy’s Canada is keeping the classics fresh.

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Iconic growth Wendy’s began franchising in 1973, with a dream of growing around the world. Today, there are more than 7,000 Wendy’s locations worldwide, and more than 400 in Canada. The brand’s Canadian roots stretch back to 1975, with its first location in Hamilton, ON—a restaurant which is still open today. Hilder has worked with the brand since 1996, and has led the Canadian business since 2012. Through his years at Wendy’s, he says, he’s seen the magic formula: a blend of consistency and innovation. In Canada, this evolution has included updating restaurant facilities, reimagining decor and design to keep the brand fresh, and finding new ways to meet customer habits. “We’ve taken the next step of evolving how the consumer accesses the brand,” he says. Consumer behaviour has shifted dramatically in the past two years, in response to the pandemic, paying off in an acceleration of delivery, the use of mobile devices, and touch-screen kiosks for ordering. “Consumers access the brand differently, so

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ICONIC BRAND “We’ve got the tools and systems, we can train you to produce that consistent product that we would like to serve to customers. But you can’t always teach people to love working with people, whether that’s with customers or employees. And at the heart of the brand, that’s what makes you successful.” we’ve adjusted our design to accommodate that—not only from the customer experience, but also how we execute in the back of house, to make it easier to run restaurants as franchisees,” Hilder explains. The pandemic created opportunities “to step up and think about how to do things differently,” Hilder says. “We focused on access—pick-up window, delivery—and engaging with our people, partnering with our franchisees to ensure they were supported and making our customers feel safe.” They also took care to keep customers’ favourite promotions, like the annual 99-cent Frosty summer promotion, going. “We didn’t stop doing things to connect with consumers because we were in a pandemic.” In fact, Hilder says, the COVID-19 crisis “initially seemed like it was going to be quite disastrous. But it in fact turned out to be, for us specifically in this industry, very strong years, from a performance standpoint.” People powered Franchise owner Susan Allison didn’t dream of going into food service; it was after she and her late husband decided to diversify their business portfolio (they also had businesses in the construction and real estate industries) that they began took look into the brand, which came highly recommended by a family member who had invested in Wendy’s. In 1995, they opened their first location in Sarnia, Ontario. Today, Allison’s company, Affinity Food Group, has 12 Wendy’s locations across the province. “It’s a great brand to be with,” Allison says. “Landlords acknowledge and recognize Wendy’s as an iconic brand and a strong brand. [Wendy’s is] well respected, and it’s a brand I can stand behind. That was important to me when we first started looking at franchising.” As a multi-unit operator, Allison says finding the right team and supports are incredibly important. “When you’re a single-franchise owner, it’s possible you can wear a lot of hats. When you become a multi-unit owner, you can’t,” she says.

This success speaks to the power of sticking with what works while looking for new ways to innovate, an approach the brand also takes when it comes to franchisee partnerships. In April, Wendy’s Canada launched ‘Own Your Opportunity,’ a franchisee recruitment initiative which aims to increase restaurant ownership among underrepresented populations. “We’re focused on providing opportunities for franchisees of different backgrounds [who] may not have all the financial assets, but they want to be in the business, they have the right approach,” says Hilder. This includes the Build-to-Suit development fund, which offers a turnkey option for candidates who might not otherwise be able to access the required capital for restaurant development. “We’ve had 15 new franchisees join the Canadian system over the last three years, and we’re looking to recruit even more. It’s exciting to see the passion and interest in our brand,” Hilder points out. Some of the key traits Wendy’s looks for in prospective franchisees are a desire to work with people, a level of financial acumen, and willingness to work hard. “We’ve got the tools and systems, we can train you to produce that consistent product that we would like to serve to customers. But you can’t always teach people to love working with people, whether that’s with customers or employees. And at the heart of the brand, that’s what makes you successful,” says Hilder. Allison adds that those looking to go into franchising should be flexible, patient, committed, and have an entrepreneurial spirit. “You have to be creative,” she notes, adding that it’s important to “have some fun with it.” “It’s always a big investment to get into franchising— into any business—but for any new person getting into business, I think franchising is a good choice, because there’s a support system there,” says Allison. Once a franchisee is approved, they work closely with the brand’s development and real estate department to

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ICONIC BRAND

find the right location. They also complete an extensive training program (16 to 18 weeks) which teaches everything from the basics of working the sandwich station, right up to the ins and outs of multi-unit management. After opening, franchisees work closely with an operations manager, and have an ongoing partnership to maintain standards and troubleshoot any challenges that arise, Hilder adds. The brand also has a number of franchise advisory groups that provide feedback and input through members across the country. “I’m biased,” Hilder confesses with a grin, “But I think if you’re looking to go into the QSR space, certainly in the hamburger space, I believe we’re the best hamburger brand. At Wendy’s, we have a track record of growth, strong customer loyalty, and a great highquality product.” As technology shifts the landscape of QSR, an established system also has the power to pivot quickly and introduce new products like ordering kiosks or mobile apps. It can also navigate supply chains better than an individual restaurant, leveraging its purchasing power to find the highest quality product at the best cost. “In Canada, we’re in our tenth year of consistent sales growth,” Hilder notes. For Allison, who has 27 years under her belt as a Wendy’s franchisee, it’s important to know mistakes and challenges may arise, but to go in clear-eyed and prepared. “As somebody coming to franchising, when you have a franchisor that really works with you, that is committed to your success, that helps train, educate, walks with you, it’s a real comfort for someone who wants to start into business,” she says. Brand values “I think the legacy of Dave Thomas is a really big part of this being a longstanding brand,” Allison says. Thomas, known for his leadership skills, had five core values with which he ran the business, she notes:

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“Quality is our recipe,” “Do the right thing,” “Treat people with respect,” “Profit is not a dirty word,” and “Give something back.” “Do the right thing,” has always resonated with Allison. “Sometimes you’re going to have decisions to make, and you don’t know [what to do]. I always fall back on ‘do the right thing,’ whether it’s an HR question or an ethics question, or anything.” The brand “has a really strong leadership team in place now that is continuing to drive it forward,” she adds. “I think they’ve been really innovative in terms of design and food quality and expansion.” It’s the “culture of people” that Hilder says has kept him working with Wendy’s for so many years. “There’s also the opportunity—constantly learning and growing. And I think that’s why I’m still here. It’s just always been exciting.” Hilder led the brand’s expansion into the U.K. last year, part of the brand’s plan for further international expansion. There are also still plenty of opportunities for growth in Canada, particularly in smaller and midsized cities, in Quebec, and in growing communities across the rest of Canada. Wendy’s has a long history and prides itself on constant evolution. But ultimately, success does come down to the food. When asked why Wendy’s has lasted so long in Canada, Hilder replies with a smile: “Great-tasting hamburgers made from 100 per cent fresh beef.” “You’ve got to feel proud of what you serve,” he adds, “so you’ve gotta love the food. You know? Gotta love it.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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SHOW ME THE MONEY

4 FRANCHISES FOR $200K-$500K Franchising is about diversity, and opportunities can be found in nearly every industry and business sector. It’s a great way for Canadians from all walks of life to go into business for themselves but with the support of a franchise system behind them. One of the most important considerations for a prospective franchisee is investment level, including figuring out a budget that fits with your financial situation and goals. Here, Franchise Canada showcases franchise systems in which you can invest for for $200K-$500K. Boardwalk Fries Burgers Shakes

Massage Addict

Inspired by the legendary fries on the world-famous Ocean City Boardwalk and founded in 1981, Boardwalk Fries - Burgers - Shakes, is bringing the beach experience to Canada. It provides customers with the best of ‘the Boardwalk’—the sights, the sounds, and the tastes ... especially the tastes! From its world-famous Boardwalk Fries, made to order fresh, never frozen burgers, creamy shakes, and so much more—Boardwalk Fries Burgers Shakes has it covered! Its warm, inviting beachy atmosphere is the perfect place to put guests in the vacation frame of mind—even if it’s just for lunch or dinner.

Massage Addict is Canada’s premier provider of therapeutic services, with locations from coast to coast. Massage Addict clinics offer four therapeutic services: massage, reflexology, acupuncture, and chiropractic care. One hundred per cent Canadian owned and operated, this unique business model offers consistent and predictable recurring revenue (approximately 80 per cent of treatments are paid by insurance), low investment and start-up costs, and a quick ROI. Single and multi-unit locations are available.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

City Wide Facility Solutions of Canada City Wide Facility Solutions is the largest management company in the building maintenance industry, managing janitorial services, commercial cleaning, disinfecting, and more than 20 additional facility solutions for every client. City Wide specializes in sales leadership and providing world-class client experiences while leveraging independent contractors to focus on the services. As an essential business, City Wide has distinguished itself as a trusted facility solutions partner. This businessto-business franchise model creates a repeat revenue stream, providing a continual source of cash flow.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Midas Canada With almost 2,100 locations throughout Canada, the U.S., and the world, and more than 60 years of automotive maintenance experience, Midas is proud to be a premier brand in world-class automotive service. Whether you’re looking to convert your business and expand or start a business, as a member of the Midas team, you’ll have the resources you need to meet the demands of today’s marketplace and have the freedom to operate independently, while tapping into top-tier training, ongoing support, innovative marketing tools, and the worldwide Midas network.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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FRANCHISE FUN

Meet the New Neighbour Brian Woods of Neighbourly is all about brand building and working toward his passions (in between downs of college football, of course)

eighbourly is the world’s largest home services company with more than 30 brands and 5,000 franchises collectively serving 12 million+ customers in six countries, providing services from plumbing and restoration, to cleaning and painting. So how does group vice president Brian Woods keep it all straight? The former investment banker and corporate strategist takes a firsthand look at the brands he oversees in the repair sector, even going as far as to ride along with

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plumbers and meet customers face to face. Unfortunately, there aren’t enough hours in the day to meet each one of Neighbourly’s 12 million customers, especially as new brand acquisitions bring more customers into the fray, but Woods’ ability to provide passionate support to new franchise owners along their path to business ownership certainly makes up for it. Here, Woods imparts wisdom from his elders, delivers his keys to success, and reveals his bucket-list vacation destinations.

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

FRANCHISE FUN The most interesting thing I’ve done recently is… Attend a “ride-along” with our Mr. Rooter franchise in Austin, TX. I had a firsthand look at how our franchise business serves the customer with professionalism and high customer service. In its best form, work is… Truly rewarding because I get the opportunity to work with business owners and entrepreneurs to successfully start a business and help them reach their goals. A good franchisee… Is a great leader who knows how to inspire a team, understands the numbers and key performance indicators, and is effective at working on the business, not in the business. Someone who is willing to adopt the franchise system’s model and not deviate from the standards. A good franchisor… Provides a strong support model for its franchisees. This includes proven successful systems, operational coaching and mentoring, marketing, and a strong franchise owner network to learn from. My top advice for prospective franchisees is… Do your homework and conduct thorough due diligence on the franchise brands of interest. This will help a prospect make a wellinformed decision. My top advice for new franchisors is… Continue to listen to the franchise owners and always look to improve and enhance the franchise model. Be active in the franchise community by partnering with the International Franchise Association (IFA), the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA), and others.

The most important thing in life is… To find your true purpose and strive for happiness, because good things happen when a person is happy and is working on their purpose/passion. One of the most enjoyable things to do is… Watching a victory by the University of Michigan or the University of Texas at Austin football teams! The hardest thing for me to do is… Travel often for work and miss out on family events and my kids’ school functions. My favourite drink is… Lemonade. If I could change one thing… I would change some of my work background to gain experience as an entrepreneur and small business owner. If I could meet anyone… I would like to meet Barack Obama. The person who has had the most positive influence on me as a businessperson is… My boss, chief development officer Brad Stevenson. His leadership and guidance have been very impactful to my development at Neighbourly and as a professional overall.

The most positive influence on my life as a person is… My mother. She has taught me so much and still imparts wisdom to this day. The key to success is… To follow your passion—the money will follow. Strive for happiness in all that you do because success will come from that, not the other way around. I’d like my friends to describe me as… Easygoing, funny, wise, insightful, and fun to be around! Someone they can depend on in a time of need. The accomplishment I look forward to the most is… Watching my daughters grow up and live lives that are fulfilled with happiness, joy, and purpose. My personal motto is… Protect your peace and good things will follow! One necessary item on my life’s “to do” list is… Travel to Australia, Maldives, and Paris! I love travelling and experiencing new things, and these locations are high on my list.

Canadian franchising is… Very attractive and a great growth opportunity for Neighbourly. My franchise system began because… There was a need to create a consistent model around servicing the home across various needs of the homeowner.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Q A

ASK A LEGAL EXPERT What are the risks of purchasing a franchise in a newly launched franchise system? I HAVE REVIEWED AND/OR PREPARED hundreds of disclosure documents during my thirty-year legal career, so one could say that “I have nearly seen it all.” Ever since the Ontario government passed franchise disclosure legislation back in 2000, and before that, when the Alberta Franchises Act required disclosure (and even registration of disclosure documents), franchisors have been required to prepare disclosure documents. There are currently six provincial jurisdictions with franchise disclosure legislation in place. The franchise systems offered to prospective buyers varied considerably, from established restaurant brands to home-based businesses, and everything in between; the use of the franchising model has become ever more popular, despite, or arguably due to, the regulatory framework that protects franchisees in their relationships with their franchisors. I have noticed a trend in franchising in the last number of years, where newly established franchisors are offering franchises to prospective franchisees, well before the franchisors have a proven concept, or well before the franchisors have launched multiple stores with good to great financial results. It’s quite understandable that new franchisors will need a couple or more franchisees to take on the significant risk of purchasing the right to operate their franchises. After all, such franchisors will need to start somewhere and there are many entrepreneurial franchisees eager to assume the risk so they can be one of the first to operate such new concepts. However, it’s one thing if a franchisor has demonstrated evidence of success with their own corporately held units before they launched a franchise system, and an entirely different thing if the franchise has very little evidence of success to date. Franchise lawyers are not typically equipped to provide franchise business advice, particularly when examining the viability of launching a franchise system with a concept that has yet to prove its ability to succeed once replicated. Thankfully, there are franchise consultants, some of whom have additional expertise in launching new franchise systems, who can be called upon to assist such prospective franchisors well before they launch their franchise systems. These franchise consultants play an integral role in examining the strengths and weaknesses of prospective franchisors’ businesses and systems and then providing business advice to assist their clients in launching their systems in a way that is profitable for both franchisors and franchisees. On occasion, these franchise consultants might conclude that the system is not profitable enough or capable of being

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franchised. Some of these consultants have the added expertise necessary to assist their franchisor clients to develop the infrastructure necessary to launch their systems and sell and support franchises on their behalf. From the prospective franchisee’s standpoint, however, I recommend that caution be exercised when considering whether to purchase a franchise from a newly launched franchisor. Sometimes, new franchisors will present an opening balance sheet in their disclosure documents that doesn’t outline how the system will be viable in the long run, or shows that the franchisor is at risk of being undercapitalized to undertake franchise expansion. These same franchisors can also be reluctant to make financial performance representations to their prospective franchisees, so they will not include the financial results of their corporately held units; this is notwithstanding that the franchise legislation does not preclude them from so doing, if it’s done in accordance with the regulatory requirements and preferably under the watchful direction and guidance of their franchise law counsel. All told, many prospective franchisees are willing to take risks, hoping that they too will succeed. Some will, no doubt, but the risk of failure is always present. Whether the allure of a new and exciting business that is being offered is too great to ignore, or there’s a desperate need to find a new source of income to support their families after a job loss, the prospective franchisee must be conscious of the warning signs that are often associated with such start-up franchise systems. Accordingly, it will often fall upon their franchise lawyers to alert them to the legal and business-related risks involved. This is especially the case when such prospective franchisees have limited their due diligence to retaining a franchise lawyer and no other business consultants. However, franchise systems that are Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) members and that demonstrate a commitment to good franchising practices are arguably more likely to succeed, so prospective franchisees of such systems may have better reason to assume the associated risks.

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

Joseph Adler Founding Partner Hoffer Adler LLP jadler@hofferadler.com

Q A

ASK A FINANCE EXPERT

When is the right time to expand my franchise? FROM A FINANCIAL PERSPECTIVE, there are several important factors you should consider when deciding whether it’s time to open your next franchise location. Ensure existing operations are strong, and you have the numbers to prove it. Are your operations continually disrupted by staff turnover, product outages, or changes in suppliers? When your systems, processes, and teams are operating smoothly, those efficiencies translate into steady revenues, optimized gross margins, and strong key performance indicators (KPIs). In fact, more and more financial institutions are moving away from looking strictly at traditional debt-to-earnings ratios and are performing deeper investigations into KPIs that tell the story behind the numbers. Financial KPIs may include times-interest-earned, or how much of your production is wasted versus sold, whereas non-financial KPIs include an operational component, such as revenue per seat (measuring the amount of sales per customer) or days in inventory (the ratio of days inventory is held before it’s sold). Consider your current financial position. When considering expansion, don’t just look for cash-on-hand and a decreasing debt balance to support the initial investment. Consider whether you’re ready to take on a new financial commitment and how you could support any unforeseen capital costs or initial working capital requirements. Most new franchisees would benefit from having additional working capital earmarked to support the start-up phase through either savings or a combination of savings with an affordable line of credit. Lean into your franchisor’s mentorship and advice. While the level of support franchisors provide varies by agreement, strong communication with your franchisor around expansion goals can encourage a clear path to guidance and mentorship. You are, after all, deepening your commitment to the brand and the business. Additionally, ask your franchisor to connect you with other multi-location franchisees within your brand— preferably those in your area or location type (rural, urban, or suburban). They may be able to provide you with the insight needed on what franchise expansion would look like for you at a granular level. Conduct market research. Franchisees may not always have the ability to make decisions around new locations or market placement, but market research will help you understand how your concept will work in other locations, learn what potential competitors are doing, and find out what makes an ideal location for your franchise. Franchise consulting companies can provide

invaluable and expert industry insight, while local commercial realtors can be helpful when evaluating and negotiating the right space and lease agreements. Evaluate your supply chain thoroughly. In times of continued disruption to the global supply chain, franchisees should consider realistic timelines for long-lead equipment, the timing of lease commitments, and cost projections for the ideal location. This level of advance planning can mitigate risk for franchisees, lenders and investors, and the brand as a whole. Consider your financing structure. While the traditional route for financing is often to purchase with debt through a bank, weighing the cost of interest against your bottom line in today’s environment of rising interest rates is crucial to ensuring you have the right balance of debt to leverage. You could, for example, offer a percentage of ownership to those who may be personally invested in the business (like the general manager of your new location) in exchange for capital financing. A unanimous shareholders’ agreement could be structured with agreedupon terms that allow for flexibility with profit-sharing and buy-out clauses. Diversifying your sources of financing through a combination of equity and traditional debt could provide the flexibility to grow and develop operations without becoming burdened by interest and loan repayments. Expanding franchise operations is a major step. Whenever you’re making significant financial decisions, it’s always beneficial to connect with your network to ask the right questions. Speaking with your accountant and financial advisors will help you understand your company’s current financial position and performance, by identifying and measuring the KPIs that will move you toward your expansion goals.

Lauren Carlos, CPA, CA Manager, Private Enterprise MNP lauren.carlos@mnp.ca www.mnp.ca

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TUTORIAL 17: THE FUNDAMENTALS OF FRANCHISING

TERRITORIES AND PROTECTED AREAS FRANCHISE AGREEMENTS will typically address the issue of territories and/or protected areas. Protected areas may be defined by distance radius, postal codes, municipalities, cities, or simply outlined as within the four walls of the franchised location. The territorial boundaries are defined in the franchise agreement and will often state that no other franchisee shall be licensed or a corporate store opened to operate under the same brand within the territory, provided that your franchise licence is in good standing and you’re living up to all terms of the franchise agreement. The intent of the exclusive territory is to protect your business sales from being cannibalized by other locations offering the same products and services in close proximity to your location. Such encroachment could detract from your business sales. It should be understood that not all franchise agreements have exclusive territories and one should read the franchise agreement carefully to fully understand the implications. Some franchise agreements will clearly state the territory is non-exclusive or simply defined as the address of the physical franchised location. Franchisors are becoming more and more reluctant to grant exclusive territories or protected areas, as it restricts the franchisor’s ability to grow the brand. Over time, new retail projects are built that provide great opportunities to build market share. The population may have substantially increased and now supports the brand having two locations. If the franchisor does not take advantage of the opportunity to expand, their competition will often do so. This may cause harm to the existing franchise location. The Right of First Refusal is often a way that the franchisor addresses this issue. In the event that the franchisor determines that the demographics have changed and a second location is justified within the territory, you’re provided the first opportunity to open the second location. If you choose not to do so, the franchisor is free to open the new location or franchise it to someone else and your original territory size is reduced accordingly. Some franchises are sales- and marketing-driven, not location-driven. Examples of these are those specializing in home renovations, window washing, and other services. They may be home-based businesses or operating out of a vehicle. The franchisee goes to the customer rather than the customer coming to a location. In these

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circumstances, an exclusive territory would provide you with the benefit of not having to compete directly with other franchisees offering the same service and/ or product. However, your growth becomes restricted and limited to the size and potential of your territory. If you’re referred business outside of your territory, you’re required to turn the business over to another franchisee servicing that area. What if the sale is based on longterm relationships that you’ve developed? This has often been addressed by the franchise agreement stating that the territory is your primary market of responsibility and the only market that you can directly advertise in, but that you can service customers outside of your territory that have been referred to you or are generated through networking and advertising done within your defined territory. From a franchisor’s perspective, it has been learned that some franchisees are more sales- and marketingoriented than others. This results in some territories being fully capitalized and generating strong sales and brand recognition, while other territories remain underdeveloped and not generating the revenues they should. Franchisors are addressing this by setting policies and defining minimum sales quotas within the franchise agreement. If sales quotas are not met, then exclusivity may be lost, allowing the franchisor to enter the market or license other franchisees within the area. There is also a common practice when the franchisor is looking to establish a location in close proximity to an existing location. The franchisor will usually conduct a study to determine the potential impact on sales of the existing location. If encroachment is determined to be a significant possibility, the franchisor may abandon its plans for the new store opening or provide some kind of revenue sharing with the existing location. The franchise agreement may have other restrictions, restraints, or permissions that further define and clarify your territory rights. Examples of these clarifications include: • Restriction of sales regarding national or institutional accounts. These may be handled by the franchisor. • Prohibition on the solicitation of sales from other franchisees of the franchise system so as to prevent franchisees from cannibalizing each other, usually when there are no protected territories. • Reservation of the franchisor’s right to franchise

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FRANCHISE TUTORIAL different brands within the territory, which may or may not be a direct competitor to you. •R estriction and restraint of internet or mail sales, which have no definite boundaries. Sometimes franchisors will reserve these sales for themselves and share the revenue with franchisees or will have the orders filled by the nearest location. Reputable franchisors are as concerned about encroaching upon and cannibalization of locations as the franchisee. The franchisor also has a legal respon-

sibility to act in good faith and conduct fair dealings. The specific territory and protected area policies and terms should be outlined in the franchise agreement. As a complex issue, it requires careful reading of all terms and conditions so that you have a full understanding of exactly how protected your territory is. Have a lawyer who is familiar with franchising assist you in understanding your franchise agreement and talk to existing franchisees to learn how territory issues have been dealt with by the franchisor in the past.

TUTORIAL 18: THE FUNDAMENTALS OF FRANCHISING

FRANCHISE GROWTH FORMATS WITHIN FRANCHISING, there are a variety of different growth formats used by franchisors. These formats provide different opportunities for a prospective franchisee. Beyond the single-unit franchise agreement (in which a franchisee has a single location), there may be the following potential growth opportunities within a franchise brand. Check with the franchisor to determine if these opportunities exist with the particular brand you’re looking at. •A multi-unit franchisee will have multiple single-unit franchise agreements. These may or may not be in the same geographical area. The multi-unit franchises may be tied to an area development agreement or master franchisee agreement. • An area development agreement is an agreement to open a specific number of locations within a specific geographical area within a specific period of time. The area developer is provided exclusivity for an assigned geographical area, provided that they meet the development schedule or timelines. Note that, as each location opens, the area developer enters into a single-unit franchise agreement for each specific location. •A master franchise agreement provides the master franchisee with the ability to sub-franchise and grant franchises to other franchisees within an assigned territory (as opposed to area developers who are opening all the locations themselves). The master franchisee will typically be responsible for opening at least one location themselves and providing some level of support to the franchisees within the assigned territory. For this support, the master franchisee will receive a portion of the royalties as compensation. Although these definitions are generally consistent amongst franchisors, there are sometimes variations.

For example, some franchisors refer to the “area developer” as a “master franchisee.” Be sure to get clarity from the franchisor as to what their definition is so that you’re both speaking the same language. Multi-unit, area development, or master franchisee agreements are all similar in that they provide the licensee with the ability to generate revenues from multiple locations. Rather than investing in one location, you invest in multiple locations so as to diversify and improve your odds of success. If one location is underperforming, it can be offset by the success of other locations. You can also have ongoing economies of scale where you share administrative costs between the locations. You can share training expenses, employees, and management. The franchisee has greater earning potential without having to go through more training or a learning curve, because you’re familiar with the brand and the operating system and are simply duplicating what you know. Multi-unit, area development, and master franchisees will usually come at a higher initial financial investment, which is offset by the potential for greater returns. You will want to ensure that you have the financial resources to open the multiple locations. Often lenders will want to see some proven performance from the first few locations before lending additional funds for continued growth, especially in today’s current economy. If you fail to meet the schedule outlined in the area development or master franchisee agreement, the franchisor may terminate the licence. You would lose any up-front fees that you had paid. You would be permitted to continue to operate the stores that you had opened but could possibly lose exclusivity for the development area. (continued on page 113)

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ALL IN. ALL HERE.

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FRANCHISE TUTORIAL (continued from page 111) There is the challenge that, as the brand evolves, you may be required to upgrade or remodel. This may include changes to the branding elements, equipment, technology, and/or remodelling of the physical premises of your locations. With multiple locations, this can be expensive. For a master franchisee, these costs will be shared with the other franchisees that you’re supporting. However, you may have the challenge of operating your own locations while, at the same time, working to find subfranchisees. You will need to hire support staff and have the infrastructure to provide the support. You will need to grow quickly in order to have the revenues to cover the costs of this infrastructure. A person who has strong leadership and management

skills would do well as a franchisee in any of these multiunit situations. They must be able to delegate the management tasks, as they cannot be at every location at the same time. The franchisee must have the ability to work on the business rather than in the business by overseeing multiple locations at the same time. As with any franchise opportunity, do your due diligence and fully understand your rights and obligations. With multi-unit opportunities, you will need to review the area development agreement or master franchisee agreement, as well as any single-unit franchise agreements. You will need to review the single-unit agreements, as each one will be entered into as you open the location. Talk to other franchisees who are operating under multiunit agreements to fully understand the opportunity from someone who has been there and done it.

STUDY QUESTIONS TUTORIAL 17

TUTORIAL 18

1. Territorial boundaries are defined in the franchise agreement and will often state that: a) u p to two other franchisees can open and operate under the same brand within the territory. b) only corporate locations can open and operate within the territory. c) no other franchisee shall be licensed or a corporate store opened to operate under the same brand within the territory.

1. An area developer is a franchisee who: a) h as multiple single-unit franchise agreements. b) has more than one protected area within a 100 km radius. c) has agreed to open a specific number of locations within a specific geographical area within a specific period of time.

3. When exploring the possibility of opening a second location near a protected territory, the franchisor will usually conduct a study to determine the potential impact on sales of the existing location. True or False? a) True b) False 4. Specific territory and protected area policies and terms should be outlined in the franchise agreement. True or False? a) True b) False

3. Multi-unit, area development, or master franchisee agreements are similar in that they provide the licensee with the ability to generate revenues from multiple locations. True or False? a) True b) False 4. A multi-unit franchisee must have the ability to work in the business rather than on the business by working in multiple locations at the same time. True or False? a) True b) False

Answer Key: 1) c 2) b 3) a 4) b

2. The right of first refusal means: a) y ou are provided with the first opportunity to open a second location within the territory. b) you have the right to deny any opening of a second location within your territory. c) the franchisor has the right to refuse the opening of a second location if you wish to do so.

2. The master franchise agreement provides the master franchisee with: a) a controlling share in publicly-traded franchise companies. b) the ability to sub-franchise and grant franchises to other franchisees within an assigned territory. c) a minimum of five single-unit franchise locations within the province.

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Answer Key: 1) c 2) a 3) a 4) a

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British Swim School is Canada’s premier “learn-to-swim” program, offering water survival and stroke development instruction to infants as young as three months up to adults well into their sixties, and all ages in between. For over 40 years, our highly trained instructors have used our gentle, fun, and effective aquatics program to safely teach tens of thousands of students. Franchise Fee: $39,500 Investment Required: $93,700 - $125,850 In Business Since: 1981 Available Territories: relatively open throughout Canada www.britishswimschoolfranchise.com

FRANCHISE WITH AN ESSENTIAL BUSINESS • A trusted brand – Nearly 700 locations worldwide and 35+ years’ experience franchising • A robust model – COBS Bread is built on providing exceptional product, friendly service and a welcoming environment for all customers • Community focused – All bakeries donate to hundreds of local schools, groups and charities across Canada • Authenticity – COBS Bread operates with honesty and transparency • No initial franchising fee for new bakeries • Flexible financing options Awards 2015 Recipient CFA Award of Excellence in Franchising, Silver Award Winner 2010 & 2012 Recipient CFA Award of Excellence in Franchising, Bronze Award Winner 2011–2022 Recipient CFA Franchisees’ Choice Designation Contact the COBS Bread Franchising Team E franchise@cobsbread.com P 1 866 838 COBS (2627) W www.cobsbread.com/franchising

We are a world-class franchisor with a commitment to quality, having more than 7,100 stores in more than 29 countries. DQ Grill & Chill® offers a variety of soft-serve treats along with a full line of hamburgers, hotdogs, chicken and salads. As an ongoing expansion program, we are presently accepting applications for DQ® franchises across Canada. Candidates must have business acumen, superior people skills and desire to work with a proven franchise system. A DQ Grill & Chill® has a total investment of approximately $800,000 - $1,200,000 or more. The candidate must have a minimum of $400,000 cash available. Applicants must have a minimum of 40% project cost in cash to invest. www.dq.ca Contact: Tammie Verna at tammie.verna@idq.com or 905.637.4741

JOIN A $6 BILLION DOLLAR INDUSTRY Driverseat is an award-winning system, that specializes in transportation solutions. Our franchise partners provide shuttle services through their team of Chauffeurs, while they work on business development in their community. Driverseat franchise locations offer transportation to airports, winery/brewery tours, non-emergent medical transport, and weddings in mid-sized commercial shuttle vehicles. • • • • • • • • • •

Total capital required - $65K $30K franchise fee (included in the total capital required) Comprehensive training program Innovative technology platform Canadian owned and operated No capital real estate leases $6 billion industry No need for inventory Award winning support Remote capabilities

www.driverseatinc.com/franchise franchise@driverseatinc.com

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Become an eSupply Franchisee

Give your customers a locally-based alternative for purchasing their business supplies eSupply Canada is a national, online distributor of office, janitorial, and industrial supplies. We provide Canadians with a local alternative to the big box retailers and bring together over 1 million products in an easy-to-use website. Our home-based, dropship model means there are no long-term leases, capital investments, or up-front inventory purchases required from our owners. Better still, our corporate office handles all customer service requests, including shipping, returns, and inquiries. To enhance the success of our owners, we’ve partnered with a leading post-secondary institution to co-design and co-deliver a world-class training program. And, as one of the only Indigenousowned franchisors in Canada, we’re looking for owners who reflect the diversity and the demographics of Canada. If you’re sales-oriented and interested in building a great home-based business, we want to hear from you. Visit esupplycanadafranchise.ca for more info.

Famoso Italian Pizzeria + Bar Famoso is a premium casual full service Italian Pizzeria + Bar passionate about authentic Italian pizza making techniques, with many family sourced recipes. Famoso serves traditional Neapolitan pizza as well as Italian dishes, including tapas, pastas, sandwiches & entrees. All restaurants offer dine-in, take-out and delivery. A typical restaurant is 2,200–2,500 sq ft with a rustic modern décor. Famoso Pronto, is an owner-operated fast, casual restaurant with Famoso’s same authentic Italian menu. This streamlined, compact size version offers a lower investment, in combination with quick table turns for an efficient business model that maximizes profit. Franchise units in Canada: 31 Franchise fee: $45K Investment required: $350K (full size), $200K (Fast Casual Pronto style) Available territories: All of Canada, US In business since: 2007 Franchising since: 2009 CFA member since: 2012 Phone: 1-888-597-7272 Email: partner@famoso.ca (Western Canada) / jkang@famoso.ca (ON & Eastern Canada & International) www.famoso.ca

Fatburger has been serving up the freshest, biggest, juiciest burgers for over 65 years. With restaurants in 37 countries, prospective franchisees benefit from investing in a concept with a proven track record. Prime ownership opportunities are available across Canada. We provide: • A highly recognized trademarked brand • Extensive initial training • Ongoing operation & training support • Marketing/advertising support • Excellent return on investment capital An upper tier quick-casual restaurant serving fresh, never frozen custom made Alberta Angus beef burgers and Buffalo’s™ World Famous Wings and Tenders, Fatburger is a recognized leader in the premium burger category. We are passionate about quality, food and service - and it shows! We offer an extensive menu and dynamic décor that brings food, fun and style together. Each meal is cooked to order using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The taste and quality of Fatburger has been inspiring fierce customer loyalty since its inception in 1952. 65 locations across Canada and growing! For more franchise information, call us at 1-888-597-7272 or email franchise@fatburgercanada.com.

Do good. Feel good. Own your own coffeehouse. At Good Earth we’ve been creating authentic, community coffeehouses since 1991… serving ethically sourced coffee and fresh, wholesome food, with a down-to-earth attitude. We believe in our coffee farmers. We choose Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance Certified, and Direct Trade coffee... and every cup is exceptional. We believe in good food. Our food is fresh and wholesome. It sets us apart from the competition. Good Earth is uniquely a coffeehouse with good food. We believe in community. Coffeehouses have a long and colourful history. Our coffeehouses are warm, friendly, and inviting. A Good Earth Coffeehouse is a community-gathering place like the coffeehouses of old. We believe in you! Good relationships are at the core of Good Earth. Is it time to invest in yourself and your family? Find out more about growing with Good Earth. Visit us at www.goodearthcoffeehouse.com. Connect at 1-888-294-9330 or franchise@goodearthcoffeehouse.com.

For locations and more visit www.fatburgercanada.com.

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With people spending more time at home, they are investing more in their outdoor living spaces. PROFIT FROM A PROVEN SYSTEM. Are you looking for • An opportunity to be your own boss? • The ability to work from home and create your own schedule? • A healthy and creative work environment? A Hickory Dickory Decks franchise offers: • Entry into a multi-billion dollar home renovation and improvement industry • A strong reputation and buying power • A proven training and support system • Industry leading technology and marketing Now expanding across Canada! Prime territories still available. Contact Hickory Dickory Decks today.

Founded in 2003, Inspiration Learning Center has since expanded to 15 learning centers. What makes us different is we are more then a tutor company-we are also a Private School licensed to offer students high school credits. No one in our sector does both. Inspiration Learning Center and Private School offers 4 Pillars of income: 1.Tutoring 2. High School Credits 3. Education Consultant 4. Retail stores. We combine Eastern and Western teaching methods to ensure your child gets the best. FRANCHISING TEAM +1.905.415.8257 2 Corby Road. Unit 5 Markham ON L3P 8A9 info@inspirationfranchise.ca www.inspirationfranchise.ca

www.decks.ca/franchise 1-800-263-4774

After over forty years of providing easy-to-prepare, top quality foods, M&M Food Market has become a trusted and iconic Canadian brand that customers have come to rely on for a uniquely convenient and welcoming shopping environment which has never been more relevant than during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Canadians were looking for help to serve real food that fit with the reality of their busy lives when eating at home has never been more prevalent. As the only national food retailer in Canada with a full food portfolio of products that have absolutely no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, our Real Food Promise has remained a key differentiator that sets us apart from our competition. We offer innovative products for those looking for new and different meal solutions including more than 35 gluten free products spanning every category, our customers can trust they’ll find something that suits their dietary needs. The initiatives that we implemented during our recent brand transformation such as our new store design, food innovation, digital marketing and eCommerce (including in-store, curb-side pick up and delivery) along with our industry-leading loyalty program have put M&M Food Market in a position to be able to continue to serve our loyal customer base when they need us the most. Reach out today to find out about the opportunities we have nationally where you can be your community’s M&M Food Market brand ambassador! For more information, visit our website at www.mmfoodmarket.com/en/franchising or call us at 1-800-461-0171.

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Mamma’s Pizza For 65 years Mamma’s Pizza™ is Toronto’s favorite pizza. Founded by Lidia Danesi in 1957. Her pizzas became so popular that they called her “Mamma, Queen of the Pizza’s” and that is how the brand was created. Ever since the brand has been passed on to the second and third generation and is now professionally managed with franchise locations across the GTA and spreading its wings across Canada. Our experienced team coordinates every aspect to set up a new franchise and offers ongoing support as and when required. We aim to create a strong and long term business for you and your family. www.mammaspizza.com Pizza Depot Franchising with Pizza Depot means partnering with a system that’s committed to your success. With over 40 restaurants across Canada, our team of site development experts are dedicated to scouting ideal locations for Pizza Depot. We work with you to negotiate leases and develop interiors that are welcoming and comfortable. We also provide comprehensive training in customer service, marketing, and general store management. When you turn the key, all equipment and supplies are ready for you, and the corporate team is with you every step of the way, ensuring your success. www.pizzadepot.ca

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

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Maverick’s Donuts began operations in 2016 with one small location in the heart of central Ottawa, spending the first 4 years refining its recipes over and over, and building a name in Ottawa for being the one true “Maverick” of the donut world. When the pandemic hit in 2020, Maverick’s opened its first suburban location in Ottawa’s west end with huge success. Our franchise program began in 2021 and we have already opened or sold 30 locations, in both Ontario and Alberta. Our donut shops offer 50+ unique flavours throughout the year, and we cater to weddings, corporate events, birthdays, and other special events. Freshly roasted coffee and soft-serve ice cream round out our amazing products.

Meridian is the largest credit union in Ontario and second largest in Canada with over 90 Branches in Ontario, 2,000 employees and $27 billion in assets under management. Meridian works with franchisors to create approved franchise programs for which their franchisees can apply for financing under these programs with Meridian. These programs will cover day to day business banking, merchant services and cash management as well as financing needs such as line of credit or term loans for equipment & leasehold improvements. Learn more about how we can help MeridianCU.ca/Franchising

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

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

Grab Your Slice of Life! Pizza Pizza began in December 1967 in a 300 square foot store in Toronto at the corner of Wellesley and Parliament Street. Since then we became the biggest pizza chain in the country. Our success stems from our customer focus. Our commitments to freshness, quality, and innovation have led us to the top of the pile in the pizza industry. Pizza Pizza delivers on its goals time and time again as we strive to make the best pizzas around at reasonable prices. Moving forward, we will continue to hold our leading position through community involvement and environmental stewardship. Consider what Canada’s most successful pizza chain has to offer you: • A commitment to quality, • Comprehensive training freshness, customer • Site selection, lease satisfaction and innovation negotiation and professional • Superior marketing and architectural design promotional support • Knowledgeable support staff • State-of-the-art technology • Administrative systems • Ongoing professional • We supply the ingredients development • Be your own boss! Franchising information: franchisinginfo@pizzapizza.ca www.pizzapizza.ca/franchising

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PuroClean is a leader in property damage restoration and has earned the trust of property owners, insurance professionals, and home service providers throughout Canada and the United States since 2001. Backed by a comprehensive network of over 400 franchise offices and a national training and business support center, each PuroClean office responds promptly to property emergencies demonstrating a high degree of professionalism and compassion. PuroClean certified Technicians are thoroughly screened, insured, and trained in utilizing the latest in mitigation technology and procedures throughout the remediation process, while operating under a strict code of ethics. In addition to serving the needs of property owners, PuroClean offers hundreds of Continuing Education courses each year to insurance professionals and property service providers. In 2014, PuroClean trained over 5,000 insurance professionals, helping them earn their Continuing Education credits.

REACH OG Learning Centres Inc. are academic remediation centres and Orton-Gillingham training centres that were formed to assist individuals who are struggling to learn to read or write and provide high level professional development to teachers. Specializing in the Orton-Gillingham approach to remediating language-based learning difficulties, our team has been specifically trained to teach reading, writing and basic language skills to students who have difficulties acquiring these skills. As specialists in dyslexia and other learning difficulties, we provide unparalleled support to students and families navigating LDs and other struggles with literacy. Additionally, we are the leading provider of certified Orton-Gillingham training and professional development to teachers across Canada. We support our franchisees to provide high level OG tutoring and intervention services to students in their community through each learning centre, and certified OG training to teachers in their region. Franchise Inquiries:

For more information on PuroClean, Please contact Heather Ciechorski Ph: 1-905-477-7876, toll free: 1-877-261-PURO (7876) E-mail: hciechorski@puroclean.ca or visit www.PuroClean.ca

info@reachlearningcentre.com

RICKY’S ALL DAY GRILL is part of the Ricky’s Group of Family Style Restaurants with 80+ locations across Canada.

ServiceMaster of Canada offers 7 distinct franchise opportunities ServiceMaster Restore (disaster restoration), ServiceMaster Clean (janitorial, specialty commercial and residential cleaning), Merry Maids (housekeeping), AmeriSpec (inspection services) and Furniture Medic (furniture repair and restoration). Come join a world renown franchise with a respected reputation that offers over 65 years of experience and growth.

RICKY’S offers a variety of restaurant franchise options, all with stylized and comfortable décor and innovative breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. • On-going support programs provide the systems and programs your restaurant needs, including a Certified Kitchen Manager Training Program, server training, quarterly area meetings and regional District Managers. • In-house marketing team provides best-in-class promotions • Menu development team keeps the menus fresh, creative and interesting • Integrated or separate lounge adds another profit centre • Customized conversions of existing restaurants/locations • Hotel partnerships with customized designs available • Total investment is between $650,000 and $950,000, depending on location and model

1.833.REACHOG

Franchise Units in Canada: 375+ Franchise Fee: $24K-$70K Investment Required: $50K-$200K Available Territories: US, All of Canada In Business Since: 1947 CFA Member Since: 1992 www.servicemasterfranchise.ca or www.servicemaster.ca

PRIME LOCATIONS ARE AVAILABLE ACROSS CANADA Call us at 1-888-597-7272 Email franchising@rickysr.com and ask for an information package. Check out our website: www.rickysfranchise.com We make restaurants work for you!

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Join The UPS Store franchise network and count on the support from our experienced Home Office and in-field teams to get you to your grand opening and beyond. Many offer printing or shipping services, but our dedication to innovation and convenience are what keep The UPS Store at the top of our industry. With over 365 franchise locations across Canada (and continuing to grow), we have a proven track record of success! As a franchisee you will enjoy an established system to get your business started off on the right track; in-depth training programs and ongoing support to make sure you continue to succeed; and an internationally recognized and award-winning brand to help you build instant credibility in your community. The UPS Store is there at every stage of your franchising journey. Proud to have been designated as an Essential Business at a time Canadians needed us most.

WingsUp! specializes in takeout, delivery and catering of 100% fresh chicken wings & bites, along with appetizers, sandwiches, sides and greens. Since 1988, we’ve been committed to using the highest quality fresh, never frozen chicken without any fillers. We invite you to join the WingsUp! family with unparalleled operational support right from site selection, training, and ongoing marketing support, continuing forward until every order finds its way into the guest’s hands. Franchise Fee: • 28 locations, with more on the way • 65% of orders made Online • Turnkey Operation. Small Footprint • No previous experience necessary

Visit us at theupsstore.ca. We Print, Ship & More!

Locations, North America: Over 5000 Locations in Canada: Over 365 Minimum cash investment: $100,000 Total cash investment: $199,250 to $218,500 plus working capital.

Franchise@wingsup.com (289) 834-2027 https://www.wingsupfranchise.com

For more information on The UPS Store opportunity, call 1‐888-875-0007 or visit www.theupsstore.ca.

X-Golf is an indoor golf simulator and entertainment franchise that features the world’s most advanced golf simulator technology. The X-Golf franchise model offers an exciting business opportunity for those ready to pursue a new venture in a unique, non-saturated, developing sports and entertainment industry. Our indoor golf simulator venues are market leading, sophisticated, socially interactive locations. We streamline our food and beverage service to create low overhead, high margin opportunities for our franchisees. This is all backed by state-ofthe-art, innovative virtual reality technology. Want to Become a Part of the X-Golf Franchise Family? Visit XGolfCanada.com for More Information.

FRANCHISE CANADA 116-5399 Eglinton Ave W, Toronto, ON M9C 5K6 Web: FranchiseCanada.Online Email: editor@cfa.ca Contact: Lauren Huneault, Editor Franchise Canada is a complete multi-channel media outlet, committed to delivering the best content to help prospective franchisees achieve their dreams and create their franchise futures. Franchise Canada properties include the magazine, print directory, website, tradeshows, podcast, videos, e-newsletter, e-blasts, and social media. Through all of these channels, Franchise Canada reaches an audience of over 750,000 per year. For advertising information, contact Om Mehta at omehta@cfa.ca. In Business Since: 2000

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WHAT’S NEXT

DON’T MISS OUR JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 ISSUE! The Trends Issue Every year, it’s important to look ahead at what we can expect from the Canadian franchise landscape in the year to come. That’s where Franchise Canada’s annual Trends Issue comes in! This January/February 2023 issue offers a comprehensive guide to the future of franchising, including a focus on categories to watch, consumer insights that are shaping how franchises interact with customers, and an economic outlook for the months ahead. Don’t miss a spotlight on digital trends in food service franchising, a showcase of brands that are focused on social responsibility, and a cross-country look at senior care franchises, in addition to regular department articles full of franchising success stories and opportunities from both new and established franchise brands. Along the way, we’ll have experts sharing insight into consumer trends, a special section full of resources for women in franchising, and much more.

WATCH OUT FOR THESE EXCITING FEATURES IN OUR JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 ISSUE:* THE FUTURE OF FOOD SERVICE: Some franchise brands have proprietary apps. Others are promoting self-serve kiosks, and even experimenting with robot delivery. We look at the ways food service franchises are going digital. TREND REPORT: Whether you’re at the start of your franchise journey, or you’ve been franchising for years, it’s important to know what’s next in the pipeline so you can connect with your community. Stay ahead of the curve with our rundown of categories to watch out for in 2023.

SENIOR CARE FRANCHISES: The January/February issue will feature a deep dive on senior care franchises. From brands providing meal delivery that prioritizes elders’ appetites, to those helping them retain independence, check out these brands helping to make the golden years a little bit brighter. SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOCUS: In our social responsibility focus feature, we highlight brands that are putting their communities at the forefront through sustainability practices, diversity and inclusion programs, and philanthropic initiatives.

PLUS A SPECIAL FRANCHISE FOCUS ON QUICK SERVICE RESTAURANTS! IN EVERY ISSUE: • Industry News • Show Me the Money • Franchise Tutorials • Leadership Profile • Giving Back • Home-Grown & Locally Owned • Ask the Experts • Day in the Life • The First Year • Next Generation in Franchising • Franchise Fun *Editorial subject to change

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

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX British Swim School............................................ 7 www.britishswimschoolfranchise.com

Hickory Dickory Decks................................ 54 www.decks.ca/franchise

Pizza Pizza..................................................................51 www.pizzapizza.ca/franchising

COBS Bread............................................................. 53 cobsbread.com/franchising

International Franchise Association ............................................................................................. 112 www.franchise.org

PuroClean ................................................................. 15 Discover.PuroCleanCanada.ca

Dairy Queen.. .......................................................... 49 www.dairyqueenfranchising.com

Driverseat.....................................................................9 www.driverseatinc.com/franchise

eSupply Canada Ltd. .. .......................... 12-13 www.esupplycanadafranchise.ca

Inspiration Learning Centre. . ................ 16 www.inspirationfranchise.ca

M&M Food Market.. .............................................. 3 www.mmfoodmarket.com

Mamma’s Pizza.................................................... 21 www.mammaspizza.com

Famoso Italian Pizzeria + Bar..................... .................................................. Inside Front Cover www.famoso.ca

Maverick’s Donuts............................................ 57 www. mavericksdonuts.com/franchise

Fatburger.................................................................... 11 www.fatburgercanada.com

Meridian.. ..................................................................... 18 www.MeridianCU.ca/Franchising

Global Franchise............................................... 40 www.global-franchise.com

Paul Davis Restoration............................... 20 www.PaulDavisBusiness.ca

Good Earth Coffeehouse......................... 59 www.goodearthcoffeehouse.com

Pizza Depot.............................................................. 21 www.pizzadepot.ca

BRANDS SUPPORTING KIDS AND FAMILIES

EDUCATION FRANCHISES ACROSS CANADA

Ricky’s All Day Grill........................................... 19 www.rickysfranchise.com

ServiceMaster. . .................................................... 48 www.ServiceMaster.ca

The UPS Store.......................................................... 17 www.theupsstore.ca

WingsUp!. . .................................................................. 29 www.wingsupfranchise.com

X-Golf............................................................................. 22 www.XGolfCanada.com

SPECIAL FOCUS ON HEALTH AND BEAUTY MAY | JUNE 2022

A Canadian Franchise Association Publication / FranchiseCanada.Online

Reach OG Learning Centre .................. 50 www.reachlearningcentre.com

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FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION To receive a FREE digital subscription to Franchise Canada Magazine, subscribe to Franchise Canada E-News for FREE now. Franchise Canada September | October 2022

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GIVING BACK

Sweet Relief

Booster Juice’s Dale Wishewan takes giving back into his own hands, sometimes quite literally BY DANIEL MCINTOSH DALE WISHEWAN speaks of Booster Juice’s early charity contributions like a far-off memory. As the brand grew in relevance through the early 2000s, contributions to their communities were felt through appearances at charity runs. “I’ve tried to foster that from the top down,” Wishewan says. “Whether the store’s in Stratford, Ontario or Quesnel, B.C., that’s what we want them to know, to be involved in your community and giving back is one of the best things we can do.” It’s a sentiment that’s been easier to prove as Booster Juice has grown into a national brand during Wishewan’s tenure as CEO. Over that time, Booster Juice’s charitable efforts have expanded into supporting service animal programs, like Dogs with Wings, and pediatrics, with heavy involvement in Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Easter Seals Ontario, providing advocacy for children with disabilities. “We’ve always felt it’s unfortunate when kids have an illness,” says Wishewan. “I think, as an adult, if it happens to us, we can navigate it easier. So, we’ve done quite a bit in the way of pediatrics over the years.” Booster Juice’s philanthropy recently took on a topical focus, following the outbreak of conflict in Ukraine. Stores across the country mobilized to raise money after the news broke in late February. “That’s the benefit of having as many stores as we do with instore marketing screens with our messaging in support of Ukraine.” Wishewan says that even if individual stores bring in a small amount, having 400 locations provides a better opportunity to have a meaningful collective impact.

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The contributions took on an even more personal focus, as Wishewan went to the Ukrainian border to assist in the relief efforts. “We’ve done a ton of support on a financial basis,” says Wishewan, “but I felt it was important to be boots on the ground, to do more than just the financial support.” So, he and his eldest daughter found themselves in a converted shopping mall near the Ukrainian border in Medyka, Poland, sweeping and mopping, assisting in trash pickup, and helping refugees get to transport buses that would take them to their temporary accommodations. The actions rippled through his family, as well. His children went back to assist in the efforts, with his daughter even moving a Ukrainian family into her home. “I’m proud of seeing that I’ve instilled some qualities in our kids to want to do something, which is nice,” says Wishewan. Like his involvement in Ukraine, Wishewan always encourages franchise partners to support initiatives that are near and dear to them in their local communities. During COVID-19 crisis points, when hospitals and elder care centres were overwhelmed, franchise partners provided smoothies for first responders and care workers, supplying a dose of relief when they needed it the most. Wishewan says it’s all a part of the bonding between Booster Juice and its communities. “You can’t fake your way in food service for 23 years without customers understanding that there’s a genuine interest in customers and in doing the right things.” For Wishewan, that community takes the form of personal connections with his staff and between them and their customers. He sees it firsthand

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

through the excitement of customers whenever Booster Juice opens locations in smaller markets. Of the benefits, he says “it’s the brand, it’s the product, and it’s a great spot to work for staff. We’ve created jobs for people. That sense of doing this together is what community is.” As the brand becomes increasingly well-known, even expanding into the U.S. and Mexico, Wishewan intends to ramp up his charitable efforts, as well. Moreover, charities that have developed a consistent relationship with Booster Juice depend on the revenue coming from fundraising. And as always, he’s scouring for different causes that need aid and attention, namely mental health. Although Wishewan describes himself as a happy guy, “it doesn’t mean that stress and anxiety aren’t there for individuals. I know we want to continue to support the mental health component of [charity] and provide continued support for all the charities we’ve worked with over the past years.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada November/December 2022

Articles inside

ASK THE EXPERTS

GIVING BACK

CFA CODE OF ETHICS

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