Franchise Canada September/October 2021 by Franchise Canada

SEE OUR STORY ON PAGES 16-18

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FOR MORE INFO, VISIT www.scorepizza.ca SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021

SCORING BIG Score Pizza is a win for franchisees with a passion for pizza

AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE GRAND PRIZE WINNERS

HOW TO FRANCHISE YOUR BUSINESS

SPECIAL FOCUS ON HOME & MOBILE-BASED BUSINESSES SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021

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BUFFET OF BRANDS Dig into dozens of casual and full-service restaurant franchise opportunities

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.

HELPING YOU DO MORE BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS Create a consistent payment experience across your franchise locations. Welcome our Consumer, Small Business and Corporate Cardmembers at your franchise locations. When franchisees accept American Express Cards, they get access to complimentary marketing programs such as American Express Maps®¹ so Cardmembers know you welcome their business.

To learn more about the benefits of accepting American Express, and how we can support your marketing efforts, visit www.americanexpress.com/canada/becomeamerchant

1. American Express Maps features eligible American Express Card accepting small merchants and is intended for general reference purposes only. It does not represent a comprehensive list of all Card accepting merchants. Data is updated from time to time and may not be 100% accurate. For a list of eligibility criteria or to access Frequently Asked Questions please visit https://icm.aexp-static.com/content/dam/one-amex/merchant/en-ca/footer/default/CAFAQs.pdf.

CONTENTS FRANCHISE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2021

CANADA

20 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.

COVER STORY

Buffet of Brands Dig into dozens of casual and full-service restaurant franchise opportunities

FEATURES

A Franchising Treat Five coffee and baked good franchises share the changes and challenges of serving communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic

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

LookforaFranchise.ca

4 Canadian Franchise Association

Recognizing Success Celebrating the winners of the Canadian Franchise Association's 2021 Recognition Awards

Membership Milestones Recognizing CFA members who are celebrating membership milestones in 2021, from five years to 45 years

SPECIAL FRANCHISE FOCUS

How to Franchise Your Business Franchise Canada’s new video series provides easy-tofollow tips from legal, finance, marketing, and franchise experts

Get Started Today!

Awarding Franchising Excellence The Canadian Franchise Association’s Awards of Excellence celebrates Grand Prize winners, Little Kickers and MaxWell Realty

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Franchising on the Go Discover why home and mobile-based businesses are increasing in popularity as Canadians adapt to the convenience and comfort of their home office

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 Pie-in-the-Sky Ambition Vancouver-based couple and Pizza Pizza franchisees Kim Le and James Jackson rise to the challenge

LEADERSHIP PROFILE Boardwalk Empire Boardwalk Fries Burgers Shakes vice president Audra Wosik sets sights with the brand for further growth across Canada

A DAY IN THE LIFE Sweet Treat Tradition Victoria-based BeaverTails franchisee Mark Mebs shares his experience operating three locations with the popular Canadian brand

THE FIRST YEAR Quick Service Success How first-year success led to the expansion of three restaurants in Surrey, BC, for Quesada franchisee Daksh Patel

EMERGING BRAND The Future of Food Franchising Crest Kitchens positions itself well during the COVID-19 pandemic as a take-out and delivery only concept

SHOW ME THE MONEY 4 Franchises for $150K-$250K

CHECK OUT BONUS SEASON 4.5, AND STAY TUNED FOR SEASON 5 !

FRANCHISE FUN A Loaded Franchise Adventure Loaded Pierogi founder Adam Dolley dishes on how the brand delivers “creative flavor combinations” for guests

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

COLUMNS

10 CFA CODE OF ETHICS 12 INDUSTRY NEWS 88 ASK THE EXPERTS 94 MARKETPLACE 101 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX 102 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

September | October 2021 5

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

A FRANCHISING FEAST FOR CANADIAN ENTREPRENEURS

fter more than a year of living through the COVID-19 pandemic, many Canadians have been missing their favourite restaurants—and with 34 per cent of our member brands in the food service industry, many of your favourites are CFA members! The cover story in this Food Issue of Franchise Canada magazine highlights casual and full-service dining restaurants that have recently been able to re-open their doors (and patios) to serve patrons across the country. For more than a year, these restaurants have had to pivot to take-out and delivery options, and can now experience the excitement around once again serving guests in their dining rooms. Prospective small business owners—also known as franchisees—will appreciate the robust “buffet” of opportunities presented in this feature. Canadians returning to the office may also be excited to step into their go-to coffee shop again for a pre-work pick-me-up. Coffee and baked goods have been a thriving market in recent years, and this issue spotlights some franchise systems that serve up cups of joe and sweet treats to guests. Beyond these opportunities, we celebrate the success of our CFA member brands. On page 49, you’ll find the CFA’s Awards of Excellence Grand Prize winners, Little Kickers and MaxWell Realty, who share their stories and secrets to success. You can also explore the winners of the CFA Recognition Awards, as well as brands that have reached membership milestones with the CFA this year. Some business owners have been thriving even in these difficult and uncertain times, and this issue spotlights several food system franchises who have kept Canadians well-fed throughout the pandemic. On page 79, we follow Quesada franchisee Daksh Patel, who in his first year has opened not one but three locations during the pandemic, finding great success with the brand. You can read about Crest Kitchens, an intriguing new concept that puts multiple restaurant cuisines under one roof and capitalizes on technology and online ordering on page 82. In our Next Generation in Franchising feature on page 70, we follow new franchisees, Kim Le and James Jackson, who share how they made it as a young couple and business partners with a Pizza Pizza.

6 Canadian Franchise Association

On page 102, you’ll read about how Recipe Unlimited has been giving back with charitable initiatives throughout the pandemic. In addition, page 73 explores how VP of development Audra Wosik is taking the western Canada-based Boardwalk Burgers Fries Shakes to a national scale. Throughout this year, many employees have been performing their jobs from home, and studies show that this may become a more common way to work in the future. Our Special Franchise Focus (page 59) features mobile and home-based businesses that provide intriguing opportunities to work from home or in a non-traditional office environment. Beyond those featured in this issue, there are many other franchise opportunities available for entrepreneurs looking to contribute to their community through franchising. Visit LookforaFranchise.ca to explore opportunities across a wide range of industries and investment levels. You can also find a wealth of franchising resources—including podcasts, video content, and articles—at FranchiseCanada.Online. Also be sure to follow the CFA on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok to keep up with the latest updates in franchising. As we have seen over the past 19 months, franchising offers an advantage in its ability to carry business owners through difficult circumstances. With optimism for things ahead, we hope you’ll dig into this delectable Food Issue. Discover your next step into the world of franchising to help you realize the dream of owning your own business.

Sherry McNeil President & CEO Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Are you passionate about changing lives? A Core Education & Fine Arts (CEFA) Early Learning Franchise might be right for you if, in addition to being passionate about changing lives, you’re looking to: • make a difference in your community; • influence the most important early developmental time in a child’s life; • work with an amazing group of dedicated teachers; and • take control of your financial future. CEFA offers something no one else can … an award-winning curriculum and an impressive track record as one of the largest and most established Canadian education franchises. Our proprietary curriculum was developed by many years of studying best practices in Early Childhood Education (ECE) from around the world. Most importantly, it’s designed

to educate children during their most formative years — ages 1 to 5.

riential daycare and preschool programs in Canada.

A CEFA franchise provides the best content, delivered in a precise format that helps shape learning as a key foundation to future development. It’s a passionate cause intended to help impact future generations of leaders, professionals, and humanitarians. With the curriculum already developed, your role becomes focussing on bringing it to life in your school.

Established in 1998, CEFA is Canada’s first full-day Pre-Kindergarten school and has grown to become one of the leading institutions in ECE in Canada — and now we’re aggressively expanding across Alberta and Ontario. The rewards associated with owning a CEFA Early Learning Franchise are both diverse and substantial, the most important being your ability to have a profound impact on children for the rest of their lives!

CEFA has earned a reputation for developing intellect, intelligence, and awareness in preschool aged children with an unparalleled foundation in education, arts, and the humanities. Our full-day ECE and junior kindergarten programs offer the finest and most sophisticated expe-

If you’re motivated by developing children academically, socially, and physically and enriching their families, talk to us today about opening a CEFA Early Learning Franchise in one of the exciting available markets.

Established Brand Unparalleled Curriculum Predictable Revenue Desirable Work-Life Balance Franchisor Support

franchising@cefa.ca

franchise.cefa.ca

CFA BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD CHAIR Gerry Docherty*, Good Earth Coffeehouse PRESIDENT & CEO Sherry McNeil*, Canadian Franchise Association 1ST VICE CHAIR David Druker*, The UPS Store 2ND VICE CHAIR Ryan Picklyk, A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.

PUBLISHER

TREASURER Lyn Little, BDO Canada LLP

Canadian Franchise Association (CFA)

SECRETARY & GENERAL COUNSEL

VP, CONTENT & MARKETING Kenny Chan

Larry Weinberg*, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP

EDITOR Lauren Huneault (on leave),

PAST CHAIR John DeHart*, Hartify Franchise Consulting

Joelle Kidd (interim)

CHAIR, LEGAL & LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrea Lee

Darrell Jarvis*, Fasken

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Stefanie Ucci

CHAIR, FRANCHISE SUPPORT SERVICES

ADVERTISING SALES Om Mehta

Kirk Allen, Reshift Media

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 *Executive Committee member

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Georgie Binks, Jessica Burgess, Roma Ihnatowycz, Gina Makkar, David Chilton Saggers, Karen Stevens, Stefanie Ucci, Jordan Whitehouse, Kym Wolfe FRANCHISE FUN ILLUSTRATION Sam Gorrie FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION:

Om Mehta omehta@cfa.ca

TO SUBSCRIBE TO Franchise Canada

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

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

© 2021, 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 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.

LAW FIRMS:

8 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

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

10 Canadian Franchise Association

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.

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Driverseat is a perfect franchise for couples... although many of our franchisees have a business partner or lead the business themselves. At Driverseat, franchisees hire Chauffeurs, market to customers and are an important part of their community as they build their transportation business. Owning a Driverseat franchise is rewarding in more ways than just the great revenue. This pandemic resilient business has experienced incredible success over the past year, with growth in new locations and in top line revenue. The business model is simple. Each franchisee provides Chauffeurs and in some cases shuttle vehicles for pre-booked transportation services like weddings, medical appointments, tours and employee transportation for companies. There simply is no other business that has this much opportunity. Be part of a growing dream with a business that enjoys high gross margin in a specialized field.

CFA Franchisees Choice Designation 4 Consecutive years

Winner of CFA Awards of Excellence

Extensive training and support programs

State of the art business technology solutions

Chamber of Commerce Innovation Award

INDUSTRY NEWS

Your source for what’s happening in Canadian franchising Pet Valu Launches National Marketing Campaign to Raise Awareness of The Don’t You Want Me Project In June, Pet Valu launched a national, multi-channel marketing campaign to build awareness of The Don’t You Want Me Project, a social impact photography project dedicated to showcasing the beauty and resilience of LGBTQ+ people, and the transformative impact their rescue dogs have on them. “Pet Valu and The Don’t You Want Me Project are natural partners. We both nurture the unconditional relationship between pets and pet lovers and understand the transformative impact that rescue pets can have, often making it difficult to tell who has rescued whom,” says Tanbir Grover, chief marketing and digital officer of Pet Valu. “When we first learned of the incredible work The Don’t You Want Me Project was doing this spring, we immediately knew we wanted to contribute through our giving back program.” Co-founded by Jack Jackson, The Don’t You Want Me Project provides a visual global platform for LGBTQ+ people and their rescue dogs to tell their stories through personal narratives and compelling images. Finding strength and purpose in the unconditional love, compassion, and nonjudgmental nature that is embodied in dogs, The Don’t You Want Me Project supports participants to heal and transform. Pet Valu’s national, multi-channel marketing campaign includes a twominute video along with shorter videos featuring individuals from The Don’t You Want Me Project sharing their stories about how the project and their rescue dogs transformed their lives. The videos, which will

12 Canadian Franchise Association

be running on YouTube, CTV Video on demand, OutTV, and social media (Facebook and Instagram), were directed by award-winning director Angie Bird who’s known for her captivating work, including Gillette’s “First Shave.” Pet Valu is also launching a digital influencer program to highlight the unconditional love pets have for the owners who love and care for them, and drive awareness of The Don’t You Want Me Project. Rabba Joins MPP Rudy Cuzzetto in Donation to The Compass Community Outreach Centre

Rabba Fine Foods, the Greater Toronto Area’s local neighbourhood market, delivered baby food products to The Compass, a Mississauga-based charitable organization devoted to serving the vulnerable on June 28. As part of the company’s Rabba Roots Community Program and in partnership with MPP Rudy Cuzzetto, the donation aimed to feed 1,000 children in the community who are facing food insecurity. The donation was distributed through food pantries and meal programs to serve families with children at risk of hunger. “Food insecurity is an extremely important issue, especially in our regions,” says Rima Rabba, spokesperson for Rabba Fine Foods. “It’s become even more pressing during

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

the pandemic and we’re doing everything we can to support the work of local organizations like The Compass and Mississauga Food Bank.” In 2020, The Compass saw a 26 per cent increase in demand for services from the previous year. With the help of more than 270 volunteers, the organization received some 17,742 visits in 2020 and distributed more than 612,000 pounds of food to a total of 1,131 households. Rabba invites all those who are able to make a donation to their local food bank to do so. Big Boost for Local Businesses with GetintheLoop’s Integrated Partnership with Global Benefits Giant BenefitHub GetintheLoop, Canada’s largest local offers and rewards platform, and BenefitHub, the world’s most popular employee lifestyle benefits portal, announced their partnership in July, making it easier for hundreds of thousands of Canadian BenefitHub members to discover local businesses, exclusive offers, and rewards. People have become more aware of the importance of supporting local businesses. The partnership delivers high-value local offers and rewards from over 5,000 local businesses to Canadian BenefitHub members, improving the overall selection, while offering relevance for members. GetintheLoop has grown its national Shop Local community during the pandemic through a unique system that democratizes the power of their platform, community by community, through local franchise owners who build and create their area’s marketplace. GetintheLoop’s founder and CEO Matt Crowell

notes, “The timing of the partnership couldn’t be better as Canadian businesses begin to reopen and need to let consumers know they’ve survived, they’re open, and why you need to come in!” Inner Spirit Holdings Celebrates Opening 100th Spiritleaf Cannabis Store Inner Spirit Holdings Ltd. a Canadian company that's established a national network of Spiritleaf retail cannabis stores, announced in July the celebration for the opening of its 100th Spiritleaf store. With its first location opened in October 2018 after recreational cannabis was legalized in Canada, Spiritleaf has developed into a retail powerhouse with more cannabis retail outlets opened than any other company in the country. The company celebrated the 100th store opening milestone with

a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Spiritleaf South Keys store located in the south end of Ottawa, Ontario. Spiritleaf’s president and CEO Darren Bondar, vice president Cecil Horwitz, and South Keys owner Richard Dufour were in attendance, along with Spiritleaf employees and representatives from the local community. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was scaled to respect all local gathering restrictions. “We celebrated the 100th Spiritleaf store with everyone who

helped us get there. It’s an amazing achievement for our trailblazing community. In just 33 months since legalization, we’ve opened more than 100 corporate and franchise stores from coast to coast which is one new store about every 10 days. That growth trajectory has been tremendous, and we have such respect and gratitude for our franchise partners and all the Spritleaf staff for making this happen. It’s a testament to our collective passion, dedication, and energy that we’ve reached this milestone,” says Bondar. Pro Fleet Care Celebrates Eight Year Anniversary for Brantford/ Simcoe Pro Fleet Care is pleased to announce the 8th anniversary of Matt Lamont joining their Mobile Rust Control dealer network. Lamont learned about the business opportunity when

Franchise with DAIRY QUEEN

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Franchise Canada September | October 2021 13

INDUSTRY NEWS he was introduced by a friend to Greg Lawrie, president of Pro Fleet Care. “A couple of years into a factory lifestyle, working at a major steel mill in Hamilton, I quickly realized it wasn’t going to suit my career goals or my personal life. That’s when I was presented with the opportunity to join Pro Fleet Care,” says Lamont. “I always admired my father for his work ethic and business values in owning his own business. I knew that if given the chance, I would thrive as an owner-operator. When I met Greg, and learned more about Pro Fleet Care, it was very clear that he cared about mentoring me and helping me to achieve both personal and professional growth.” As an owner/operator, Lamont personally looks after spraying every vehicle, ensuring that only quality work is performed. Pro Fleet Care customers save on average $6 in corrosion-related body repairs for every $1 spent on their program. That’s a big savings when you consider the fact that those savings don’t take into account the cost to replace corroded parts. “Last year

was my best year on record,” says Lamont. “With our unique process, we were able to assure our clients that we could service their fleet safely and effectively while working within COVID-19 guidelines.” TaxAssist Accountants Signs its First Franchisee in Edmonton, Alberta TaxAssist Accountants is pleased to announce that Moe Farhat has become the first Canadian TaxAssist Accountants franchisee. Farhat has more than 25 years’ experience in accounting, business, and finance, and opened TaxAssist Accountants storefronts in Edmonton, Alberta. Farhat was attracted to the Tax Assist Accountants storefront concept and business development initiatives from the outset. “Many people will ask why I chose Tax Assist,” says Farhat. “Really, it was the ‘one-stop-shop’: comprehensive, all-round service, specifically for small businesses, with world-class marketing and training support.” All TaxAssist storefronts are based in accessible, convenient

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14 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

locations. “The look and feel of the shops are completely different from traditional accounting practices. My experience says that my clients will appreciate the open, welcoming look and I want them to enjoy the entire TaxAssist experience. Gone are the days of feeling inhibited by a trip to your accountant. I’m confident that we’ll attract a lot of walk-in clients because of the storefront concept,” Moe continues. “After a smooth recruitment process, I’m beyond excited to start my journey with TaxAssist Accountants.” TaxAssist Accountants is looking to grow its network further in Canada with those who share a passion to be their own boss and help local small businesses. Baskin-Robbins Canada Franchisees, Staff, and Management Thank Canadians for Turning to Their Brand and Shops During the Past 17 Months On July 18, the eve of National Ice Cream Day and just ahead of its 50th anniversary in Canada this September, Baskin-Robbins Canada extended a sincere thank you to Canadians for entrusting its franchisees, team members, and brand to help brighten up lives and morale during the past 17 months of pandemic living and adjustments. Over the past year, it’s been increasingly clear to the brand and its team members that guests at all its 104 shops in Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Quebec have relied on Baskin-Robbins for more treats and service than in years prior. Same store sales growth across most, if not all, of the network has hit levels not seen in recent memory. “We’re extremely humbled and grateful for the

INDUSTRY NEWS trust Canadians have placed in us during these challenging times,” says Mike Gooding, the longest-tenured representative of Baskin-Robbins in Canada with 34 years of service. “All of us, at work and in personal circles, have been surrounded by challenges. Through it all, we’ve seen a great humanity among people, neighbours, and the business community. We’re proud of our collective resilience and that includes the work of our franchisees, who have done their best to pivot with us in order to keep our service level. We’re honoured by this vote of confidence and that we’ve found ways to deliver our product and promise of smiles through it all.” Delivery and take-out service has played a big part in the brand’s resilience and success during the pandemic. Some stores have seen close to a doubling of sales figures due to demand for delivery, for example. Numbers from the first half of the summer season indicate that delivery continues to do well. A&W Canada Partners with Christine Sinclair for the 13th Annual Burgers to Beat MS Campaign to Help Take on Multiple Sclerosis A&W Canada and the MS Society of Canada teamed up with Christine Sinclair, four-time Olympian and Canadian women’s national soccer team captain, for the fifth consecutive year to lead the 13th annual Burgers to Beat MS Day on Thursday, August 19. On this day, A&W donated $2 from every Teen Burger ® sold via drive-thru, take-out, the A&W mobile app, dine-in in select restaurants, and third-party delivery partners across Canada to help people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Leading up to August 19, Canadians supported the campaign by rounding up their bill with any purchase, making an online donation at BurgersToBeatMS.ca, or by adding a donation when ordering through A&W’s mobile app. Sinclair’s mother, Sandi, lives with MS, and Sinclair understands first-hand the daily impact this disease has on people living with it, and their loved ones. In honour of her mother and the other 90,000 Canadians living with MS, Sinclair called on Canadians to come together to make a difference and join her in helping people living with MS. “This is my fifth year participating in the Burgers to Beat MS campaign, and each year I am so touched by how many Canadians come together to support a cause so close to my heart,” says Sinclair. “Coming from a fam-

ily that’s been impacted by MS, I know first-hand the daily toll this can take on someone living with the disease, and why this fundraising initiative is so important. Together, we can make a difference for people, like my mom, who live with MS and who need support now!” A&W Canada’s goal is to raise over $1.5 million for the MS Society through this year’s Burgers to Beat MS, bringing the campaign total to more than $17 million raised in support of the MS Society over the last 13 years. Donations will help the MS Society fund research, support, and services that are fundamental to changing lives— bringing us one step closer to a world free of MS. “MS impacts all Canadians, not just the people who live with it—their family, their friends, and their community are all touched by this disease. Funds raised through Burgers to Beat MS allow the MS Society to support research and services that are fundamental to changing lives,” says Pamela Valentine, president and CEO of MS Society of Canada. “We strive to come together to help improve the lives of people affected by MS, and our partnership with A&W over the years has helped us in supporting communities affected by MS. We encourage all Canadians to buy a Teen Burger ® on [the annual] Burgers to Beat MS Day and help bring us one step closer to a world free of MS.”

INCREDIBLE FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY EDMONTON STORE

NOW OPEN!

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 15

ADVERTORIAL

SCORING BIG

Score Pizza is a win for franchisees with a passion for pizza

BY STEFANIE UCCI

ive years ago, Score Pizza co-founders Joel Braunstein and Paul Hineman decided they wanted to start a fast casual pizza brand that captured the essence of a great Canadian experience. While the idea first originated on a napkin, today the co-founders and their operating partners have scored themselves a successful venture, as an emerging brand with six restaurants in total and potential franchise interest for expansion across the country. Braunstein, president, says he was born and raised in the restaurant business and has worked in every facet of the industry, “starting out as a dishwasher” and eventually moving his way up the corporate ladder. Back in the 1990s, he had a franchise system called Joel’s Bagelry that he eventually sold, and he has always been eager to develop and open new concepts within the restaurant industry. Hineman, a fellow Canadian, served as executive vice president of the National Restaurant Association in the US and has “an extensive background in growing successful restaurant brands,” according to Braunstein.

ADVERTORIAL

Gabrielle Arvanitis, director of operations with Score Pizza. Gabrielle has owned her own family restaurant and comes from a family of successful restauranteurs. She supports all owners in their day-to-day operations.

The first Score Pizza restaurant opened mid-year 2016 in Kingston, Ontario and a year later, the second location was launched in Ottawa. Despite the challenges introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic, the brand ended up opening four new restaurants over the past year with prospective franchisees hoping to score their own locations in open territories. “We love Italian food and we’re always eating pizza, so when we saw the fast casual pizza boom in the US, we thought it was time to develop our own concept in Canada—but we added a modern upgrade to it,” explains Braunstein. That upgrade is the open concept theatre-style service that allows guests to pick unlimited toppings and watch their pizza cook in under 10 minutes—a unique process that differentiates Score Pizza from other pizza brands. “What I love about Score Pizza is the opportunity to enhance the customer experience. Guests of all ages love watching their customized pizza prepared and baked in front of their eyes, and will often take pictures of their masterpiece to post it on various social media channels,” says Angelee Brown, director of franchising. “The brand fosters a sense of heritage and local community, while engaging the guest.” Once the

pizza comes out of the oven, guests can pick up a beverage like beer or wine, and dine in the restaurant or on the outdoor patio. “SCORE” is a purposeful word the brand chose to represent their focus on scoring a great pizza at a great price, and it’s also an acronym to represent their values: “Sincere” and authentic, “Community” focused, “Obsessed” with detail, “Responsible” in every way, and highly “Efficient.” Score Pizza’s core mission is to “deliver craveable experiences” one meal at a time, with a focus on customer service and the fun of building your own pizza. The unlimited toppings options feature fresh, local ingredients and include sauces, cheeses, meats, veggies, and finishes to be arranged on signature dough that’s made fresh in-house daily. Other menu items include stone-fired sandwiches, customized salads, and desserts. The brand is also sure to cater to the dietary needs of all guests with a peanut-free environment for those with allergies, and menu items like gluten-free crust and vegan options. Vegan toppings include plant-based meat and spicy sausage, vegan cheese, and more. “Often, you feel like you’re being penalized when your choice is plantbased alternatives because you have to add or remove toppings,” notes

Brown. “But I feel like I’m getting a lot of variety and good value for my money [at Score Pizza].” Score believes in aligning its focus to build a healthy, sustainable brand with successful franchise partner experiences. Many of the employees hired at Score Pizza restaurants are recruited through referrals, explains Braunstein. Each employee receives a free meal every shift, and the operating teams have regular team appreciation meetings to celebrate their success. They also encourage all franchisees to come up with creative and fun ways to build team spirit, collaborate and become more involved in giving back to their communities. Braunstein notes that Score Pizza is an efficient restaurant to operate, while offering guests customized menu choices. While customers are invited to visit the restaurant to design their pizza, they can also get meals delivered to their door with third-party delivery apps including DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, and Uber Eats. “In addition to providing great in-restaurant experiences, we’ve also made it very easy to ensure our guests can enjoy Score Pizza at home. I think that the combination of both of these revenue models along with our ‘turn-key’ approach, make this a very compelling investment for a potential franchise partner,” explains Paul Hineman, co-founder.

ADVERTORIAL

Score Pizza co-founder Paul Hineman’s family enjoying a night with their favourite pizza! From left to right: Dylan Powers, Alice Hineman, Cathy Hineman, Brittany Deblois, Nolan Koyata, Taylor Deblois

As for the characteristics that identify an ideal Score Pizza franchisee, Brown says they prefer an experienced restaurateur who has excellent operational expertise within the food and beverage industry. “There’s this spin on offering beer and wine— it doesn’t add a huge amount of complexity, but hospitality principles are incredibly important to the brand,” she explains. Brown adds, “Another important element is making a difference in their local communities and celebrating our diverse Canadian heritage. Our ideal franchise partners are also very passionate about quality and service, and embody the values that we have, and they must love pizza!” Franchisees participate in an extensive training program that complements their individual skills and experience, ranging from two weeks for highly experienced restaurateurs to five weeks for those who request additional training, explains Braunstein. Score Pizza is a proven system that’s on trend and offers a unique opportunity to business owners, especially those interested in multi-unit investment opportunities across Canada. Brown explains

that the brand is in a unique position in the Canadian market and has an excellent leadership team who understand how to build successful brands and overcome any potential challenges. “We’re really ready to grow now and have spent five years refining this great concept to franchise across Canada. Our pipeline of potential partners is expanding every week,” says Brown. This is definitely not your standard pizza place. The appealing natural elements in the restaurants are modern, comfortable, and offer a great vibe for guests. All locations are designed by Joel’s wife Heather, who has spent more than 30 years in the restaurant industry. “It’s a very different look, ambiance, and experience that appeals to multiple generations,” states Braunstein. Design features include red fired ovens, limestone, solid cherry wood tables, soft seating, mesquite wood walls, and rich, warm colours which reflect the brand’s Canadian heritage. Braunstein points to the success story of franchisee James in Newmarket, Ontario, who joined the Score Pizza family as an experienced restaurateur who’s always invested and worked in franchise systems.

“We were grateful he chose us over 12 to 14 other potential franchise brands that he investigated because of our market appeal, the quality of our menu items, and how we treat our team members.” As a result, Braunstein says, “It was a very smooth opening and he’s been open for a few months now, super busy, and loving it. He couldn’t believe the processes that we have in place. It’s stress free and his employees are really having fun and love the guest interaction.” Braunstein notes that James’ location in the Newmarket Upper Canada Mall is doing well and he’s looking to expand soon with Score Pizza into other markets. “I’ve been with a number of brands and have always had a passion for restaurants,” explains James. “Score Pizza is exciting and there’s a high demand for this concept. The simple operation in comparison to other restaurant concepts made it a clear choice for me. Due to COVID19, we opened in the middle of lockdown. The mall was shut down, there was only one entrance and exit, and we could only do take out. If it wasn’t for the support from head office, it could’ve been very tough. We endured the worst, and now I’m running one of the busiest locations [in] the chain and couldn’t be happier.” So, what are you waiting for? It may be time to score your own pizza franchise opportunity and partner with Score Pizza for success!

Please visit ScorePizza.ca for more information.

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COVER STORY

BUFFET OF BRANDS Dig into dozens of casual and full-service restaurant franchise opportunities BY STEFANIE UCCI

Restaurant-goers can likely admit that they’ve missed dining in at their favourite establishments for the past year as we’ve battled the COVID-19 pandemic. While these casual and full-service dining restaurants have had to pivot their offerings to take-out and delivery, re-openings throughout the summer welcomed guests back to patios and indoor dining environments. Now is the time for prospective franchisees to consider investing in restaurant opportunities from coast to coast as we slowly but surely enter the “new normal” of post-COVID-19 life. For those with a knack for serving delicious and high-quality meals, casual dining franchises may be top of mind. Join Franchise Canada as we explore casual and full-service dining restaurant franchises across the country that are getting back on their feet and offer exceptional franchise opportunities.

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Boston Pizza International Boston Pizza International (BPI) is proud to be Canada’s number one casual dining brand, serving communities from coast to coast since opening its first restaurant in Edmonton, Alberta in 1964. Today, BPI operates in Canada, the United States, and Mexico, has been recognized as a Platinum Member of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies, and has been a Franchisees’ Choice Designation winner for eight consecutive years. Boston Pizza offers guests two experiences under one roof—a family-friendly casual dining restaurant and a separate sports bar with a lively atmosphere. While it’s famous for gourmet pizzas made with signature hand pressed dough, the extensive menu satisfies every appetite. Mouth-watering pasta dishes and a wide variety of, salads, entrées, and desserts are also served. The casual atmosphere makes Boston Pizza as fun for families as it is for solo dining, teams, and groups of all ages. With $1 billion in system-wide sales, Boston Pizza has more locations, serving more guests annually, than any other casual dining concept in Canada. Each year, more than 40 million guests are served across more than 380 Canadian locations. BPI provides award-winning national advertising campaigns and sponsorships, as well as operational support. Franchisees benefit from a comprehensive “Hospitality Leadership Training” program for all new franchisees and their management teams, followed by in-restaurant support and team training. Ideal attributes for successful franchisees include a commitment to serving the community, being business savvy, an entrepreneurial spirit, leadership skills, exceptional customer service skills, and being comfortable working within a proven system.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Browns Socialhouse As a premium casual dining brand in Canada, Browns Socialhouse fills the gap between big-box casual and neighbourhood pubs. The atmosphere is fun, relaxed, and sophisticated, with an emphasis on socializing with friends and neighbours while sharing delicious food and drinks. Browns has been in business since 2004 and has been franchising since 2006, with more than 76 locations in operation and quickly growing. Typical restaurant sites are smaller than category average at about 3,500 to 4,000 square feet, to allow the brand to provide its products and services to smaller urban spaces and in suburban communities. Its aim is to capture traditional “neighbourhood bar and grill” clientele, and the smaller site footprint allows it to enter spaces that “big-box casual” establishments normally don’t fit. In addition, the smaller site concept reduces the capital that’s required for construction and start-up. The franchise fee for Browns Socialhouse is $50,000, with a minimum start-up capital of $750,000 in unencumbered cash. The franchisor provides an eight-week training program for new franchisees, but successful franchise candidates must have prior proven casual dining management experience to be considered. At Browns, the guest is the first priority, and this is demonstrated by the layout of space in the restaurant, environment, and overall experience. Restaurants fit into the niche neighbourhood and community in which they’re located, creating a unique and exciting experience. Browns is built on the quality and consistency of the customer experience and uses in-house marketing through positive word of mouth between guests.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Café 22 Café 22 has served the city of Winnipeg since 1999, positioning itself as an ideal spot for gathering and celebrating with friends and family. Unique menu items include stone-fired pizza that’s cooked in less than 180 seconds, 20 types of beers on tap, an extensive wine menu, martinis, and more. Traditional menu items include burgers and sandwiches, pastas, salads, traditional pan pizzas, and desserts. Café 22 is the perfect spot to grab a bite for lunch, spend dinner time with the family, or enjoy a night out with friends. It’s the weekend destination for guests to relax and unwind with good food and drinks, whether for casual drinks or a night on the town. The brand provides guests with options for takeout or dine-in meals. The franchise fee to buy into a Café 22 establishment is $30,000, with a required investment of $750,000 to $1 million. As an emerging franchise system, there are currently two franchise units in Canada, and territories are available throughout Canada and the United States. Initial training for new franchisees lasts for one month, with support from the Café 22 head office team.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Chuck's Roadhouse Bar & Grill Since 2015, Chuck's Roadhouse Bar and Grill maintains a contemporary restaurant atmosphere while paying homage to a traditional roadhouse restaurant. It offers an incredible guest experience, with a commitment to serving high-quality food at groundbreaking prices. As a beacon to road travelers everywhere, Chuck’s Roadhouse has developed high demand from guests across the country and is expanding at a rapid pace. The brand is best known for its famous AAA steaks, lobster tails, prime rib burgers, BBQ back ribs, chicken wings, and more roadhouse favourites. There are more than 75 Chuck’s locations open and under development across Ontario, with plans to expand across Canada. Restaurants are filled with branded marketing, interior finishes and furniture, light-up marquee signs, massive TV walls, and the brand’s signature mounted motorcycle. Buying into a Chuck’s Roadhouse costs $50,000 for the franchise fee and an investment of $375,000 to $700,000. Premium locations are available and franchise owners can enjoy low royalties starting at 3.75 per cent and a low national marketing cost of 1.25 per cent. Franchising with Chuck’s Roadhouse provides a variety of benefits including an innovative concept with a competitive advantage, industry-leading sales and growth, full turnkey buildout, high alcohol sales and low operational costs, in-house financing options, and a low investment with high returns. Chuck’s Roadhouse is owned by Obsidian Group Inc., a hospitality business that also owns Crabby Joe’s Bar • Grill and Coffee Culture Café & Eatery. It provides years of experience and professionalism with a competitive advantage and hands-on support for business owners.

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Crabby Joe's Bar • Grill Guests with a love for elevated and quality food can find the ideal dining experience at Crabby Joe's Bar • Grill. The brand provides a modern, casual dine-in restaurant that focuses on the guest experience, menu selection, and affordability. Restaurant décor features rich tones and textures that combine a warm, rustic charm with sleek, modern accents and colours for a friendly and comfortable experience. Since the inception of Crabby Joe’s, the primary goal was to provide guests with quality food in a relaxed, unpretentious, and family-friendly environment—serving amazing dishes such as flatbreads, gourmet salads, Angus burgers, bowls, pastas, and more. With a low franchise fee of $40,000 and a required investment of $650,000 to $850,000, Crabby Joe’s franchisees receive abundant training and ongoing support. Head office also provides innovative local and regional marketing, store and build-out costs at a lower-thanindustry-average price combined with higher-thanindustry-average sales per square foot, higher-thanindustry-average liquor sales, and an enjoyable and happy atmosphere that makes a difference. Crabby Joe’s is owned by Obsidian Group Inc., a hospitality business that also owns Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill and Coffee Culture Café & Eatery. The parent brand provides a competitive advantage and handson support for business owners due to its years of experience and professionalism in the restaurant industry.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

East Side Mario's East Side Mario’s is proudly owned and operated, offering a casual Italian full-service restaurant experience. The brand believes that every day is a new opportunity to create amazing dining experiences for guests that capture the heart, energy, and spirit of Italy. With more than 60 locations across Canada, it’s been in business since 1987 and operates with the motto, “Come hungry. Leave full.” East Side Mario’s offers meals that are accessible and provide good value in a fun atmosphere. Guests are offered all-you-can-eat soup, salad, and garlic home loaf. The franchise fee for East Side Mario’s is $60,000 and requires an investment of $1.3 to $1.6 million with territory opportunities available across Canada. Franchisees should bring a net worth of $1.4 to $2 million, and the required start-up capital is $600,000 to $700,000. Build time for restaurants takes approximately five months, and Recipe Unlimited provides in-house real estate, design, and construction professionals to assist with the sourcing, securing, and designing for each unique market. Franchisees with East Side Mario’s are offered eight weeks of initial training. As part of the Recipe Unlimited family of brands, franchise partners benefit from a competitive advantage in purchasing, real estate, construction, marketing, information technology, and more.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Eggsmart Eggsmart is the new take on breakfast! It focuses on fresh, made-to-order, honest breakfast whenever you need it. This Canadian-born brand has been in business since 2008, serving up dishes with a delicious twist on the classic breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Franchisees pay a low franchise fee of $35,000 and required investment of $350,000 to $525,000 while following a seven-step process to opening a franchise. Eggsmart also provides a comprehensive four-week training program with opening assistance and ongoing support from head office. Training for new franchisees begins at the Eggsmart Support Centre in Toronto, Ontario, as well as a designated training restaurant. The course delivers both hands-on instruction and on-thejob training for about 50 hours per week, covering basic principles of management, food preparation, customer service, marketing, and more. Once the training program is complete, franchisees work with their business development manager to plan the restaurant opening, as well as the Eggsmart marketing department to implement a grand opening campaign. The business development manager will also offer ongoing training and support in the recruiting, hiring, training, and maintaining of staff members, maximizing financial performance, cost controls, cash flow management, customer and community relationships, food management and sanitation, and much more. Eggsmart has 50 locations across the country, and more territory and individual opportunities are available in select provinces across Canada. Eggsmart is focused on growth and is dedicated to building strong franchise relationships with owners who have a passion for the fresh food industry and a drive to succeed in their business endeavour.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Famoso Italian Pizzeria + Bar Famoso is a premium casual full-service Italian pizzeria and bar that's passionate about authentic Italian pizza-making techniques featuring many family-sourced recipes. Famoso serves traditional Neapolitan pizza in various sizes as well as Italian-inspired dishes, including tapas, pastas, sandwiches, and entrees. The brand believes the key to success is a strong commitment to excellence and true passion for what it does. Founded in 2007, Famoso is an authentic replication of an Italian Pizzeria direct from Napoli, Italy. The Famoso concept is focused on authentic Neapolitan pizza made with high-quality ingredients, the use of imported Italian deck ovens, and traditional culinary techniques in pizza-making that have gone unchanged for generations. Famoso is the neighbourhood pizzeria and bar where great food and good friends make the perfect ingredients for a memorable night. There are 28 franchise units across Canada, with multiple new location openings planned for 2021, and territory opportunities available throughout North America. Franchisees pay a $45,000 franchise fee as part of a total investment of $400,000 to $700,000, of which $350,000 cash equity is required, and standard SPL financing. Famoso provides their guests with an authentic experience, vibrant atmosphere, fresh ingredients, and a focus on great service and hospitality. Franchisees are provided industry leading franchise support services including extensive initial training and store opening assistance, comprehensive ongoing operational support, strategic site selection and lease negotiations, stylized restaurant design and turnkey construction in major markets, and brand-building marketing including media campaigns.

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Fionn MacCool's Back in the early ’90s, the founder of Fionn MacCool’s was inspired to create a collection of pubs during a trip to Ireland. In 1996, the brand opened its doors with its first pub located in Hamilton, Ontario, and has since expanded across the country with more than 25 franchise units. It offers a unique culture and hospitality atmosphere that’s found in traditional Irish pubs across the pond. With an emphasis on “Craic” as the essence of Fionn’s, the experience is about connecting with friends and family, while sharing a story and a laugh and listening to live music over a pint and great food. The franchise fee for Fionn MacCool’s is $60,000 with a required investment of $1.3 to $1.6 million, and territory opportunities available across Canada. The total amount of cash required is $600,000 to $700,000 and franchisees should bring a net worth of $1.4 to $2 million. Build time for restaurants is approximately five months, with continuous support from the Recipe Unlimited family of brands along the way. Franchising with Fionn’s offers hotel conversion opportunities for business owners to unlock the full value of the food and beverage offering. This allows franchisees to choose from multiple banner brands to best suit their hotel and guest profile, provides access to a large support team within the franchise system, offers higher sales and profitability potential as well as decreased expenses from Recipe’s purchasing power, increases the occupancy rate in hotels, and provides franchise owners with the potential to sell their restaurant for a larger return.

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IHOP Corp. Since 1958, the International House of Pancakes (IHOP) has served its world-famous pancakes and breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals to guests of all ages. IHOP offers an affordable dining experience with warm and friendly service from staff across the more than 1,600 franchise units in the United States, 26 franchises in Canada, and 100 franchises in international territories. IHOP’s vision is to nourish business success by focusing on four primary strategies: emerging the brand, enhancing the guest experience, upholding operations excellence, and maximizing franchisee development. To do this, the brand relies on the strength of franchisees worldwide who, along with their staff members, provide guests with delicious food, excellent customer service, clean restaurants, and great value for every meal. IHOP is looking for experienced multi-unit developers. Franchising with the brand requires a $40,000 USD franchise fee and a $1.5 to $3 million CAD investment that varies by asset type and size. Available provinces in Canada are Ontario, Quebec, Yukon, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories, with non-traditional opportunities located in travel centres, casinos, airports, and universities. Initial training takes eight weeks and ongoing support includes assistance with site selection, restaurant design planning, restaurant opening, and ongoing operations and marketing consulting. Ideal IHOP franchisees are experienced and well capitalized multi-unit operators who may already operate multiple restaurants with another brand. Characteristics of ideal franchise partners include knowing how to build a brand, understanding that accessible pricing and value are core components of the business, being highly capable in multiple business areas, having material liquidity and net worth with access to capital, and being committed to long term franchise relationships that are built on trust and respect between franchisor and franchisee.

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Il Fornello Back in 1986, Il Fornello was founded in Toronto, Ontario, and introduced guests to wood-oven baked pizza with a variety of unique and tasty toppings. Since day one, the brand’s priority has been providing guests with the highest quality food and service possible, while adapting and evolving the menu to food preferences and sensitivities. Il Fornello was the first Italian restaurant to offer glutenfree pizza and pasta options and recently introduced a vegan menu that’s seen great response and success. Passion is what defines the Il Fornello brand. The team has a passion for three main items: the food, the guests, and for being customers’ neighbourhood Italian restaurant that was also voted “Toronto’s Best Pizza.” Il Fornello has franchise and corporate locations in Toronto, Ajax, Richmond Hill, and Oakville, Ontario, and territories are available throughout all of Canada. The franchise fee to buy into the brand is $35,000 with a $1.15 to $1.42 million investment required. There’s a four per cent royalty rate and one per cent advertising fee, and franchisees receive complete training that lasts 10 weeks with ongoing support from head office. The three leaders of Il Forenello consist of president Ian Sorbie, vice president of operations Stacey Patterson, and vice president of development Sean Fleming. They have a combined hospitality experience of more than 100 years and their strong leadership and experience have created high staff retention rates and a focused and solid strategy for franchise growth.

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Kelseys Kelseys was first opened in 1978 by a trio of Canadian brothers who were inspired to start the brand during their numerous road trips down south. Since then, it’s expanded to more than 60 franchise restaurants across Canada, offering fresh ingredients and menu items that are prepared in-house. Kelseys is known for its burly burgers, two-handed sammies, and wings tossed up eight different ways. Kelseys has a modern roadhouse ambiance and guests are encouraged to dig into the generous and delicious dishes that are available for lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks. The franchise fee for Kelseys is $60,000, which can be built within approximately five months. The required start-up capital is $600,000 to $700,000 and the total investment required is $1.3 to $1.6 million, with territories available across Canada. Franchisees are offered eight weeks of initial training and join the Recipe Unlimited family of brands. That means they’re offered a competitive advantage for purchasing, real estate, construction, marketing, information technology, and more abundant support during their franchise career. Recipe has amassed $3.5 billion in system sales and provides a strong choice of multiple banners to choose from that best suit franchise partners’ styles and market conditions.

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COVER STORY

Joey's Seafood Restaurant Joey’s Seafood Restaurant is Canada’s largest seafood restaurant brand, which was founded in 1985 by seafood lover Joe Klassen and his wife, Theresa. They had a vision to create a friendly, just-around-the-corner style of seafood restaurant for guests. With headquarters located in Calgary, Alberta, Joey’s has been franchising since 1992 and currently has 45 franchise locations, with available opportunities in select provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, and more. Joey’s is known for its signature fish and chips meal, as well as a wide array of seafood, shellfish, chicken, and more for guests to enjoy.

With a low franchise fee of $25,000, Joey’s provides five weeks of initial training and has a passion for people and guests throughout all aspects of the restaurant experience. The Joey’s team treats franchise partners like family and builds relationships with franchisees to support them and help them succeed in their business endeavour. Benefits of buying into a Joey’s franchise include the longevity of the concept, since the brand has been serving up fish and chips for more than 30 years; a market niche with mid-priced, high-quality food; growing trends in the popularity of seafood, which is often perceived as healthy eating; availability of good locations with little competition; smaller teams of staff due to Joey’s unique operations, menu, and facility design; and the low cost of a franchise compared to other franchise concepts.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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Mandarin Restaurant Franchise Corporation Mandarin is an award-winning all-you-can-eat buffet that serves Chinese and Canadian dishes to guests, as well as a la carte, takeout, and delivery menu options. With headquarters located in Brampton, Ontario, the brand has been in business since 1979 and franchising since 1989. Mandarin has nearly 30 franchise units in operation, with available territories across Ontario. The restaurant serves a variety of food items including salads, soups, sushi, and entrees. It also offers a grill table, a carving table featuring Prime Rib, seafood, desserts and an ice cream sundae bar. Takeout and delivery options include special family dinners and combo platters for one. The franchise fee for Mandarin is 10 per cent of the total set-up cost and the required investment is $3 million. Training for Mandarin franchisees lasts one to three years, and applicants are required to attend a training program at corporate headquarters in Brampton. The brand is an equal opportunity employer and looks to hire staff that are energetic and passionate about food and people. Mandarin places importance on three aspects of the business: values through continuously striving for excellence and being committed to customers, quality, teamwork, accountability, passion, respect, and community; advancement through offering career development opportunities and benefits to employees; and providing tons of fun through being energetic and passionate about providing quality food and exceptional service to guests.

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Montana's BBQ & Bar Montana’s is the home of Canadian BBQ and is famously known for its fall-off-the-bone ribs, 100 per cent Canadian steaks and burgers, and menu favourites including fire-grilled chicken tacos and mac and cheese. The Canadian-born casual restaurant was established in 1995 and has been franchising since 1998. It’s a barbecue and bar joint with a friendly environment that’s great for all occasions and guests of all ages. The friendly bartenders and servers provide a relaxing atmosphere full of fun and connections with friends and family members. The franchise fee for Montana’s is $60,000, with a required investment of $1.4 to $1.8 million and start-up capital of $500,000 to $700,000. There are more than 90 franchise units, with territory options from coast to coast. Build time takes five months and restaurant conversion opportunities are available. Initial training for franchisees is eight weeks and they receive abundant support from the Recipe Unlimited family of brands, which has more than 50 years of franchising experience in developing restaurants in Canada. Restaurant conversion opportunities are available for franchise partners and offer the ability for them to be their own boss while accessing a large support system of franchisees and corporate operations experts in the full-service dining industry.

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COVER STORY

Original Joe's Restaurant & Bar Proudly based in Western Canada, Original Joe's Restaurant & Bar first opened its doors in 1997 and has provided a down-to-earth and down-the-street experience for guests. Franchise owners have a love of good food, enjoyed in the company of good friends, and never take themselves too seriously. The brand is best known for its craft beers, approachable wines, and tried-and-true cocktails that are served alongside freshly made comfort food. An array of menu items are available, including snacks and shareables, poutines, and ready-to-eat bundles for take-away. Guests can expect satisfying food and genuine service each time they visit. Franchise partners can buy into Original Joe’s with a franchise fee of $60,000 and are expected to invest $1.4 to $1.7 million into the design and construction of a new restaurant. The startup capital required is $550,000 to $700,000. Build time takes about five months and restaurant conversion opportunities are available to help franchisees unlock the true value of their restaurant location. With more than 35 franchise units across Canada, new opportunities are available and franchise owners receive abundant training and support from head office. Franchisees join the Recipe Unlimited family of brands that’s achieved $3.5 billion in system sales across 12 franchise brands.

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Pizza Hotline Takeout & Delivery/Pizza Hotline Stone-Fired Pizzeria Pizza Hotline Takeout & Delivery has been a market dominator in Manitoba since 1986, operating with the slogan, "Great pizza at a great price." The brand places emphasis on providing value and quality to guests, with robust and thought-out processes backed by delicious food offerings and strong franchisee supports. Pizza Hotline Stone-Fired Pizzeria, its sister company, was founded in 2011 and implements a blend of traditional and modern, with a true dedication to its slogan, “Fast, Fresh, Quality.” It serves Naples-style hand-made pizza cooked in just 180 seconds and offers uncompromising quality and taste. The franchise fee for both brands is $30,000 with a required investment of $400,000 for Pizza Hotline Takeout & Delivery and $250,000 for Pizza Hotline Stone-Fired Pizzeria. Territories are available throughout the United States and Canada, and there are more than two dozen cumulative units in Canada. With more than 30 years in business, Pizza Hotline has achieved dominant chain-wide average-unit volume, incredible investment ratios, and quick cash flow business models, making it an incredible franchising opportunity. The average franchisee relationship is decades long, with success rates well above industry standards. Benefits for franchisees include world-class total training, store construction support, comprehensive marketing support, an omni-channel order taking centre, accounting and operations support, and more. Franchisees can expect to be hands-on with their business, contribute a holistic investment to get started, and put in hard work and leadership skills. Franchise partners are carefully chosen from a highly selective pool of candidates to own a Pizza Hotline franchise.

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COVER STORY

Pür & Simple Founded in 2016, Pür & Simple is a breakfast and lunch spot where dishes deliver unexpected twists on classic recipes, providing guests with the opportunity to discover bold new flavours within their comfort zone. Menu items range from smoothie bowls to savoury Benedicts, which are all handcrafted with love by chefs. Pür & Simple offers franchise partners a balanced lifestyle with the perfect harmony between personal and professional life, as restaurants are usually open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The franchise fee for Pür & Simple is $35,000, with a required start-up capital of $250,000 in unencumbered cash and an investment of $500,000 to $750,000. There are currently 30 franchise units across Canada and growing, with opportunities available across the country. Restaurants take approximately 12 to 20 weeks to open, and franchisees must pay a three per cent advertising contribution and five per cent royalty fee. Initial training for franchise partners consists of up to three weeks of theoretical and practical training, with three weeks of grand opening training and support. The brand looks for franchisees with passion, entrepreneurial mindset, sufficient capital to invest, and an interest in being hands-on with their business, guests, and staff. Benefits of franchising with Pür & Simple include a recession-resistant business model, an affordable investment, turnkey concept, top-notch branding and marketing, an authentic and creative menu, chef-inspired recipes that are easy to execute, multi-unit opportunities, a hand-crafted alcohol menu, and much more.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

30 Canadian Franchise Association

Ricky's All Day Grill As part of the Ricky’s Group of Family-Style Restaurants, Ricky’s All Day Grill has more than 75 franchise locations in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon. The brand has been in business since 1962, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner to guests with a focus on providing a wide variety of dishes and great service in a family-friendly atmosphere. Ricky’s All Day Grill offers a variety of restaurant options, all with stylized and comfortable décor and innovative menus. Restaurant sizes are typically from 2,800 to 3,500 square feet with a separate or integrated lounge and can be in a free-standing building or as an endcap location in a power centre. Franchisees with Ricky’s will pay a $45,000 franchise fee as part of a total investment of $650,000 to $950,000, of which $250,000 cash equity is required, and standard financing. Ricky’s is also located in well-known hotel properties across Western Canada, that are owned by hotel groups and/or third-party franchisees, as part of the Ricky’s Hotel Partnership Program. Initial training for franchisees consists of comprehensive hands-on training, full service operational support, and industry-leading activation and marketing programs. Franchisees receive assistance with site selection, design and development, kitchen training and restaurant management, cost controls and financial management, marketing development support, and service standards and excellence. Ongoing support programs provide the systems that each restaurant needs, including a certified kitchen manager program, server training, quarterly area meetings, and regional district managers. A menu development team keeps the food fresh, creative, and interesting.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

COVER STORY

St-Hubert Quebecers know St-Hubert for its renowned slow-roasted rotisserie chicken and ribs that can be ordered at the 120+ landmark locations across Quebec, Ontario, and New Brunswick. With more than 65 years in business, StHubert is continuing expansion in Quebec, offering two types of franchise opportunities. Traditional rotisseries have a dining room, restobar, and children’s corner where guests can spend time with their friends and family. Express rotisseries offer a quick-service restaurant experience at the counter with a seatting area. Both rotisserie styles provide takeout, drive-thru, terraces, and delivery services to guests. The franchise fee to buy into St-Hubert is $40,000, plus $10,000 in start-up fees. Build time for new restaurants takes about six months and requires a total investment of $1.8 to $2.2 million, with a required net worth of $1.2 million. Franchisees are provided with a comprehensive 15-step training program that trains employees in all aspects of their positions including reception, customer service, and meal preparation. They’re required to contribute to a common fund for marketing and advertising support that allows them to set up national advertising campaigns. Ongoing support from the Recipe Unlimited family of brands also includes bilingual IT support and online recruiting to find the best personnel to represent the St-Hubert brand.

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State & Main Kitchen + Bar Since opening its doors in 2012, State & Main Kitchen + Bar has lived for those warm connections between old friends and new acquaintances who enjoy great food and good times together. It’s best known for its craft beers and cocktails offered at the friendly bar, alongside reimagined and delicious scratch-made menu favourites. The menu caters to gluten sensitive and vegetarian guests, and offers shareables, family and date night bundles, a kids’ menu, delicious starters, and meal items with a unique twist. The franchise fee for a State & Main restaurant is $60,000, with a $1.4 to $1.7 million total investment and cash requirement of $550,000 to $700,000. Restaurants can be built within approximately five months, with support from Recipe Unlimited’s in-house real estate, design, and construction professionals to secure and design according to market needs. Initial training is provided to franchisees from the Recipe Unlimited family of brands, along with continuous support and knowledge from head office and its more than 50 years of franchising experience. Currently, there are more than a dozen franchise units across Canada, with available territories from coast to coast. Franchise partners can benefit from restaurant conversion opportunities that offer a multitude of advantages including the potential to sell a franchise restaurant for a higher return.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 31

COVER STORY

Smitty's Canada Inc. Smitty's Canada Inc. is a full-service family dining and lounge restaurant that offers a wide menu variety and specializes in “All Your Favourites All Day Long!” The brand has been in business since 1960 and has strong market awareness and loyalty as a category leader in family restaurants. There are currently more than 80 franchise and corporate units across Canada, with franchise opportunities for single units, multi units, and master/territories in select provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, New Brunswick, and more. Conversion opportunities allow the brand to convert existing food and beverage facilities into franchises, located in places such shopping malls, strip centres,

32 Canadian Franchise Association

and hotels and motels. Converted restaurants also allow franchisees to receive immediate cash flow from customers who are staying in surrounding hotels. Franchise partners are required to have both a minimum cash investment and start-up capital of $250,000. The franchise fee is $40,000 plus GST and includes the brand’s professional experience in locating and evaluating a site. Smitty’s has documented its operating systems and programs within manuals that are available for franchisees. These include branding and signage; development; new store opening; training for franchisees, management, and crew; training in accounting and administrative duties; operations; and store marketing. Smitty’s Presentation and Portion Standards Manual displays all menu items that are accompanied by photographs, recipes, and details about ingredients, portioning, cooking, assembly, and plating presentation. A full training program is developed for those with or without prior restaurant experience.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

COVER STORY

Sunset Grill Founded in 1985, Sunset Grill is Canada’s leading fullservice breakfast restaurant franchise and is the home of the original Famous All Day Breakfast™. The brand offers California-style breakfast meals that are prepared in an open kitchen and served in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Sunset Grill has almost 100 locations across Canada in Ontario, Alberta, and New Brunswick and is continuing expansion across the country and select US markets. Restaurants require 1,000 to 1,500 square feet units with a basement, and freestanding sites are typically 2,200 square feet. The franchise fee for Sunset Grill is $55,000 with a start-up capital of $290,000 and required investment

of $640,000, which includes the franchise fee. Owneroperators can enjoy a healthy work-life balance with the brand’s one-shift operation model. Franchisees also receive high profit margins of up to 20 per cent on net sales, which leads to excellent returns and the building of a saleable asset. Ideal franchisee characteristics include a supervisory or managerial background, ability to communicate and connect with guests and employees, willingness to follow operations and procedures, enthusiasm to learn and understand the cooking process and kitchen operations, and having integrity, honesty, sincerity, and tenacity. Initial training begins before grand opening day and is ongoing, with support from head office. The benefits of franchising with Sunset Grill include specialization in the marketplace, streamlined operations, comprehensive training, ongoing professional guidance and low staff turnover.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Canada’s #1 Breakfast Brand sunsetgrill.ca

98 Franchises

& GROWING

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 33

COVER STORY

Swiss Chalet Swiss Chalet is the home of Canada’s favourite rotisserie chicken and has been serving guests since 1954. Known for their Quarter Chicken Dinner and famous Chalet Dipping sauce, the brand continues to serve up fresh, never frozen, Canadian chicken. The cost of buying into a Swiss Chalet franchise is $60,000, with a total investment of $1.3 to $1.8 million. The startup capital required is $520,000 to $720,000 and takes approximately four to five months to build. Restaurant conversion opportunities are available for franchise partners. There are more than 180 franchise locations across Canada, with a total value of $3.5 billion in system sales as part of the Recipe Unlimited family of brands. Franchisee training is eight weeks long and territory opportunities are available throughout all of Canada.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

34 Canadian Franchise Association

Symposium Cafe Restaurant & Lounge With more than 25 years of restaurant experience, Symposium Cafe Restaurant & Lounge offers effective direction, guidance, and support along every step of its franchisees’ business experience. Symposium is 100 per cent Canadian founded, focused on the pillars of quality, value, and guest-focused service. It’s the go-to destination for both dining and celebrations, where guests are invited to “Escape the Ordinary.” Customers experience flavourful made-to-order meals, an exceptional atmosphere, and superior service. The brand serves meals all the way from breakfast to dessert and lunch to late night snacks, that can be enjoyed through dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. The franchise fee to buy into Symposium is $50,000, with a $665,000 to $730,000 required investment. The brand has more than two dozen franchise units, with territory opportunities available across all of Canada. The very first meeting with the Symposium head office team begins with offering assistance in obtaining financing, holding tradespeople to construction timelines, and providing online video training for staff members. Initial training with Symposium is provided for up to three people and lasts three months, all the way until the ribbon cutting for grand opening day. After that, franchisees receive 10 weeks of support from a transition tutor who assists on a regular basis with day-to-day operations and procedures to ensure a successful business startup. Franchise partners also benefit from adaptable site requirements, brand strength and versatility, adaptability, superior quality, manuals and operating procedures, marketing, and purchasing power.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

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COVER STORY

White Spot Restaurants Iconic British Columbian brand White Spot Restaurants is Canada’s longest running restaurant chain, and has been serving communities for more than 90 years. Founder Nat Bailey started off by transforming his Model T vehicle into a travelling lunch counter that was set up at Vancouver’s Lookout Point back in 1928. By 1955, the brand was serving 10,000 cars a day and became an iconic carhop service. Franchising restaurants began in 1994 and today White Spot is famous for its award-winning, legendary 100 per cent fresh Canadian beef burgers topped with the “secret” Triple ‘O’ sauce and iconic pickle. More than one million guests dine every month at White Spot, which is a testament to the brand’s broad appeal and continued success in the family casual dining segment. For breakfast, lunch, dinner, take-out, or delivery, White Spot appeals to guests of all ages. White Spot Restaurants operates under the White Spot Hospitality umbrella that also houses their quick service concept, Triple O’s. The concept was developed in 1997 and features the famous Triple O’s burger line up, fresh cut fries, and hand-scooped milkshakes. The popularity of Triple O’s continues, with rapid expansion planned across Canada. The brand recently entered Ontario and plans to open 30 units over the next 60 months. White Spot Hospitality provides an abundance of support to its franchisees in all areas, including operations training, marketing, purchasing, real estate, and construction. White Spot and Triple O’s have been the proud recipient of the Canadian Franchise Association's (CFA) Award of Excellence for many years, with both brands consistently ranking in the top three. As the CFA’s Franchise Choice recipient for both brands and one of Canada’s Best Managed companies, White Spot Hospitality is always on the lookout for great franchisees to join their team.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

36 Canadian Franchise Association

Wing'n it Restaurants The first Wing’n it Restaurant was established in 2011 in downtown St. John’s, Newfoundland and later that year, the brand opened its first franchise in Gander, Newfoundland. Since then, it has spread its wings to 18 locations, most which are located in Newfoundland, with others in Nova Scotia, Alberta, British Columbia, and new locations opening soon in Ontario. Wing’n it Restaurants are family-friendly and are meant to transport guests to a world of fun, variety, and comfort. They offer more than 100 types of sauces to top chicken wings, ribs, fries, wedges, and onion rings. The variety-filled menu has options for all ages to choose from, enjoyed in an atmosphere with intriguing aviation décor and friendly service from staff. In addition to the abundant flavours of wings, the restaurant also offers wraps, soups, salads, poutine, perogies, quesadillas, burgers and sandwiches, nachos, flatbreads, ribs, and much more. It costs $35,000 to buy into a Wing’in it Restaurant, with a minimum investment of $375,000 and required start-up capital of $50,000. Territory opportunities are available across all of Canada and internationally. Franchisees are provided initial training, with ongoing support from head office that has two locations in Torbay, Newfoundland and Barrie, Ontario.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

COVER STORY

Wild Wing Hospitality Inc. Wild Wing Hospitality Inc. is the largest chicken wingfocused restaurant chain in Canada based on store count, with more than 85 franchise units across the country, and 10 more locations set to open this year. The brand has 101 unique and proprietary flavours to toss wings in, and sells approximately 24 million chicken wings annually. Restaurants provide a full-service casual dining experience in a Western-themed atmosphere. The franchise fee for Wild Wing is $35,000, with a required start-up capital of $150,000. The brand currently has a growth strategy of opening 130 locations coast to coast through sustained expansion by 2023. New build restaurants are about 2,200 to 3,500 square

feet and costs range from about $536,300 to $795,800. A retrofit or conversion restaurant is around the same size, but the lower fees range from approximately $275,000 to $495,500. Wild Wing has been in business since 1999 and offers an established franchise concept that appeals to families, friends, couples, sports teams, and more. Franchisees receive a minimum of two weeks of hands-on training held at a designated Wild Wing facility and completed by a team of corporate trainers. Franchise partners also receive outstanding support every step of the way under the direction of an accomplished management team. Wild Wing has fewer obstacles to ownership than other restaurant franchises due to its established support system, flexible options, and low franchise fees and royalties. A simple to execute menu results in low labour costs for franchise owners as well.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Hot Wings, Cold Beer, Great Sports! Canada’s largest chicken wing chain - 100 locations and growing

Looking for Conversions and New Locations Expanding into Quebec – first location now open in Brossard 10 new locations opening second half of 2021

Franchise with us today!

FRANCHISING@WILDWINGRESTAURANTS.COM | WILDWINGRESTAURANTS.COM

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 37

COVER STORY

Franchise Tutorials Zaatar W Zeit Back in 1999, Zaatar W Zeit emerged into the dine-in restaurant industry. Born in the sleepless city of Beirut, the location helped feed the brand’s spirit of resilience. With an ethos centred on bringing guests together through sharing Lebanese cuisine made with love, the essence of the brand’s culture is simplicity, inspiration, and positivity. The past two decades have grown Zaatar’s passion for delivering Mediterranean cuisine to guests, while putting its culture on the international map. The Zaatar brand is based in Lebanon but delivers its nutritious and delicious foods to countries including Kuwait, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. There are 55 franchise units in the Middle East and 25 corporate units in Lebanon—and one corporate unit in Canada, located in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia. With menu items available for takeout, delivery, or pickup, Zaatar offers traditional dishes such as specialty wraps, manousheh, flatbread pizza, and even all-day brunch. Franchise fees run from $25,000 to $45,000 to buy into a Zaatar franchise, and franchisees are required to have a minimum of five years’ experience in the food and beverage services or restaurant industry. Ideal characteristics for franchise partners include having a passion for the industry and strong belief in the brand’s concept; a willingness and ability to open multiple units in a specific area; and having the required liquidity to open multiple units, with a proven record of having developed or operated multi-unit concepts.

Gain knowledge on the basics of franchising from A to Z! With the Franchise Tutorials series, you can follow 24 tutorials that cover important franchising topics including deposits, advertising fees, inventory, recruitment, insurance, audits, and more. You can explore an informative and easy-to-digest article on each topic, followed by a quick video clip summarizing what you learned. PLUS, test your knowledge on each topic with the NEW Franchise Tutorials quizzes! The Certificate Quiz provides you with a certificate of completion upon passing. The knowledge gained in these tutorials and quizzes can help you start making your dreams of business ownership come true!

Click here to explore Franchise Tutorials! Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

38 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

A Franchising Treat Five coffee and baked good franchises share the changes and challenges of serving communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic BY GEORGE BINKS

What was the best part of the day when you worked downtown, or your go-to after a mid-day workout with your buddies? Picking up a coffee and a muffin, of course! The COVID-19 pandemic meant a lot of that was put on hold, but now we anticipate a return to the “new normal” of our daily lives—including sharing more sweet treats with friends and family. Here, Franchise Canada highlights franchise brands Second Cup Coffee Co., Good Earth Coffeehouse, COBS Bread, Brioche Dorée, and Tim Hortons. Each franchise has supported their franchisees in valuable and unique ways, so that they can continue getting coffee and baked goods into the hands of loyal, hungry guests on their daily coffee runs.

40 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

A FRANCHISING TREAT Brioche Dorée It’s difficult to resist the smell of fresh baked goods when walking by a Brioche Dorée café. Alexandra Grudkin, franchise development director, explains, “The French ambiance is very inviting, and the smell of freshly baked goods is quite enticing as well.” The brand started about 40 years ago in Brest, France and has grown to more than 440 locations around the world, with 11 locations in Canada and one more under construction. It offers a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, desserts, pastries, and bread that’s baked fresh daily, and is mainly French-inspired. Grudkin sees COVID-19 as not just a challenge, but an opportunity. “The pandemic kickstarted a restaurant revolution. It really forced restaurants to rethink their business models and re-strategize their store development plan.” In the early days of COVID-19, the franchise saw a significant sales decline in some stores, with a shift to restaurants succeeding predominantly in the suburban market versus the financial district. Some of those loca-

tions are experiencing a much better recovery now, with all the new efforts in place. To persevere through the past year, Brioche Dorée launched its own app and delivery platform as well as used food delivery apps, supported franchisees with royalty reductions, and helped obtain concessions from landlords. “It’s a matter of continuing to adapt every day to the ‘new normal’ and continuing to listen to the franchisees.” Brioche Dorée provides a three-week training program and ongoing support from head office. Most importantly, “Franchisees should have a passion for the brand,” says Grudkin. “They need leadership and people management skills, [should be] business savvy and [have] a track record of success.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 41

A FRANCHISING TREAT COBS Bread Kiran Behl, a COBS Bread franchisee with two bakeries in Surrey, B.C. just celebrated her 15-year anniversary with the company, and says that her success is all about caring. “I care about the people I work with, my customers, and my community.” Kiran is proof of COBS Bread’s vision to be the favourite bakery in every community. COBS Bread is part of Baker’s Delight, an Australian franchise that was started in 1980, and today has more than 700 global locations. The brand first opened in Canada in 2003 and now has more than 135 locations, with plans to open 150 more locations in the next five years. Brad Bissonnette, vice president of marketing and franchise recruitment for COBS Bread, says that the freshness of their products and the company’s End of the Day Giving program are aspects of the brand that sets it apart. “Our bakers rise early in the morning to prepare and bake hand-crafted bread and flavourful treats fresh every day. At the end of the day, all unsold bread is donated to local charities.” During the pandemic, the franchise re-engineered its product offering to simplify operations to cope with

extreme staffing conditions. One of the biggest challenges that franchisees face is staffing bakers because of the early hours and complexity of baking. “Building and nurturing your bake team is a key to success,” Bissonnette adds. The brand also launched an online ordering platform and partnered with delivery companies, as well as completed extensive employee and franchisee training to adapt to the “new normal.” An ideal COBS Bread franchisee has a hands-on approach to growing the business and building a team, is a self-starter, believes in proven systems, and has a passion for freshly baked bread and treats. Franchisees don’t need previous baking experience as they’re provided with a full baking education alongside comprehensive sales and business management training.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

COBS Bread Oxford Market

Owner Kiran Behl and the team at South Point Annex

42 Canadian Franchise Association

Harald and Mary Anne Siegemund, Owners of Oxford Market

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

A FRANCHISING TREAT Good Earth Coffeehouse When the first Good Earth Coffeehouse opened back in 1991 in Calgary, Alberta, founder Nan Eskenazi and her partner, Michael Going, wanted to create a community gathering place that served exceptional coffee and fresh food. Eskenazi says, “We believe in building communities within our coffeehouses and beyond.” Even with the challenges the pandemic introduced, that feeling of community is one Eskenazi wants to reinforce going forward. “Somewhat ironically, the pandemic has helped us clarify the importance of creating community gathering places,” she notes. “While other coffee brands reacted by shrinking their presence in communities and pivoting to drive-thru and ghost kitchen methods, we embraced our roots and recommitted our brand to creating places for social interaction, environmental responsibility, ethically sourced coffee, and fresh, wholesome food. We all need human interaction, and we can adapt to make our interactions both safe and meaningful.”

Eskenazi adds, “We adapted by accelerating our rollout of mobile ordering, adding curbside pick-up, modifying our menu, and increasing communication with customers through digital channels, all while respecting the need for safety in our communities.” Good Earth Coffeehouse now has 45 locations from Victoria, B.C., all the way to Montreal, Quebec. Initial training is five weeks and is delivered partially online followed by in-person in a coffeehouse. Describing the ideal franchisee, Eskenazi says they should “believe in the value of community, commitment to sustainability, desire to serve others, and, of course, a love of coffee always helps.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise operating partner Ritu Agarwal at the Strathcona Square location of Good Earth Coffeehouse, Calgary, Alberta.

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 43

A FRANCHISING TREAT

Second Cup Coffee Co. From its founding in 1975 to its purchase by the Quebecbased Foodtastic Inc. earlier this year, the Second Cup Coffee Co. brand has been part of the Canadian coffee drinking landscape for decades. Peter Mammas, president and CEO of Foodtastic Inc. claims, “It’s the pre-eminent Canadian specialty coffee chain. All pastries are made by local bakeries and coffee is sourced from South America.” The benefits to owning a Second Cup franchise are that “we already have a customer base with loyal

customers. We have purchasing power and marketing,” says Mammas. As for challenges with the franchise: “We source locally so we’re dealing with multiple vendors in each province. It’s a big strain on our supply chain.” The pandemic hit the franchise hard because it’s predominantly based in urban centres and transit locations. Mammas says, “With public transport grinding to a halt in urban locations, we’ve had a lot of issues as far as sales go.”

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44 Canadian Franchise Association

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A FRANCHISING TREAT

"We already have a customer base with loyal customers. We have purchasing power and marketi ng."

Peter Mammas, president and CEO of Foodtastic Inc.

- Peter Mammas

Fortunately, government rent and wage subsidy programs helped. Mammas says suburban stores that have reopened are already doing better than they were in 2019. Going forward, the franchise is concentrating more on suburban areas with drive-through locations. He also believes the labour market will be improved for restaurants and cafés. An ideal Second Cup franchisee “is a customer-focused, hands-on leader with a passion for coffee,” says Mammas.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

YOUR BUSINESS. YOUR SUCCESS.

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Franchise Canada September | October 2021 45

A FRANCHISING TREAT

James Gregoire, vice president of franchise operations

Tim Hortons Drive through many small communities across Canada, and you’ll be hard-pressed to not encounter at least a handful of Tim Hortons restaurants. James Gregoire, vice president of franchise operations says, “One of the greatest things about operating a Tim Hortons restaurant is it’s so intrinsically tied to the DNA of Canada.” The brand started in 1964 in Hamilton, Ontario, and today the company has 1,500 restaurant owners operating more than 4,000 locations in Canada. When COVID-19 hit, Tim Hortons restaurant owners wanted to help. That’s when the company took the opportunity to donate coffee and baked goods to hospitals across Canada, long-term care homes, and food banks. During the pandemic, franchisees were provided with daily COVID-19 updates and safety standards relevant to their region. The company also began introducing top of the line digital outdoor menu boards and helped to onboard an increasing number of restaurants to offer delivery. “An ideal franchisee exudes Tim Hortons values, believes in the product they’re selling, the team members they employ, and the guests they serve,” Gregoire notes. “They value their employees above all else. We also look for individuals who want to do good in their communities.”

46 Canadian Franchise Association

“One of the greatest things about operating a Tim Hortons restaurant is it’s so intrinsically tied to the DNA of Canada." - James Gregoire

Training for new franchisees includes the Tims University training program, as well as site visits and training from designated field team managers and regional marketing managers. “Being a Tim Hortons restaurant owner is more than just a business opportunity or a passive investment, says Gregoire. “To many, it’s a lifestyle.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

HOW TO FRANCHISE YOUR BUSINESS Franchise Canada’s new video series provides easy-to-follow tips from legal, finance, marketing, and franchise experts

urning your business into a franchise can be an exciting but daunting experience, and there are many moving parts to consider before initiating the process. From finances to legal aspects all the way to the marketing of your brand to attract both franchisees and customers, you should be well equipped and educated before deciding to embark on this adventure. Join Franchise Canada as we share quick, easy-to-understand clips from legal, finance, marketing, and franchise experts. You’ll hear insights and tips on how you can turn your business into a thriving franchise system! For more expert advice on franchising your business, tune in to FranchiseCanada.Online every Thursday.

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Franchise Canada September | October 2021 47

HOW TO FRANCHISE YOUR BUSINESS

Thinking About Franchising Your Business? Contributed by Marietta Snetsinger, Founder, Ascend Franchise Solutions You’re probably thinking about how you can continue to capitalize on your success and grow your business. As you consider your options, you may find that the franchise business model could be a contender.”

Are There Any Specific Government Programs to Help Take My Business to The Franchise Model? Andrew Carter, Regional Market Leader, Bank of Montreal Maybe you need to build a corporate location to help with training. Or hire some additional support staff to help the network grow. Or maybe even some marketing help or website design. Any or all of these things may require some type of bank assistance.”

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48 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

How Much Money Will It Cost for Me To Turn My Business Into A Franchise? Marietta Snetsinger, Founder, Ascend Franchise Solutions In all likelihood, you're going to need some support with [franchising your business.] If you've never been a franchisor before, there are people who can help you get that set up.”

AWARDING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

The Canadian Franchise Association’s Awards of Excellence celebrate Grand Prize winners, Little Kickers and MaxWell Realty BY KYM WOLFE

Most franchise systems will tell you that the key to their success is their franchisees. Each year, a confidential survey of franchisees is used to measure their satisfaction with the supports and resources they’re receiving from their franchisor. The franchise systems that receive the highest ratings are recognized through the Canadian Franchise Association’s Awards of Excellence program. This year, the Grand Prize winners are MaxWell Realty and Little Kickers. Franchise Canada spoke to both franchisors and their franchisees to discover what it is that makes these two companies stand out in their respective industries.

See all the 2021 CFA Awards of Excellence winners below:

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 49

AWARDING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

"LITTLE KICKERS’ SUPPORT IS NOT ONE-DIRECTIONAL. WE ALL HAVE A ROLE TO PLAY IN SUPPORTING EACH OTHER." - Frank Stanschus

50 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

AWARDING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

Little Kickers Little Kickers received the award in the non-traditional franchise category. The brand is an international franchise established in the UK in 2002. Since entering the Canadian market in 2009, it’s grown to 52 locations in Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia, that are owned by 26 different franchisees. The soccer program is designed to help 18-month to seven-year-old children develop high quality soccer skills, as well as important pre-school learning concepts such as colour and number recognition, sharing, following instructions, and using imagination—all delivered with a “fun first” approach. “There has been very little turnover of franchisees, so we’re a pretty close group,” says Frank Stanschus, managing director, Canada. “The pandemic really cemented that and brought us even closer together.” As soon as lockdowns were put in place, the company transitioned its normal monthly meeting to a weekly occurrence. Everyone brought their ideas and experiences to the table as the group worked together to chart the best path forward. “It would’ve been very difficult to operate at all during the pandemic without the support of our head office and franchisee network. We had to constantly pivot and abide by the ever-changing rules set out by the province and local health units,” says Clark Webster, who opened two Little Kickers territories, in London in 2016 and 2017, then Brantford/Woodstock/Stratford in February 2019. “I can’t emphasize enough how fortunate I am to work with so many supportive individuals who would do anything in their power to help me succeed as a business owner. I’m constantly in contact with other franchisees regarding marketing, product offerings, employee hiring, training, and more.” Krystal Nichols has been operating Little Kickers in Guelph for nine years, and while she’s always appreciated the franchise team, this year that connection to a

network of like-minded people was especially important. “We all worked together—the Canadian Director of Coaching, head office people like the Operations Manager, all of the franchisees—to help figure out how to modify programs, move classes online, and prepare for when restrictions lifted. When B.C. re-opened, there was so much interest, I sent uniforms from my stock out to B.C. franchisees so that they could meet demand.” Stanschus notes, “Our franchise support covers all angles of the business—product, customer service, regulatory environment, business strategy and growth, HR training, and IT. But Little Kickers’ support is not onedirectional. We all have a role to play in supporting each other. That involves franchisees helping and advising each other, as well as franchisees supporting the franchisor. It’s critical to listen to our franchisees, as they hear and see what happens in the real world, and that’s a key input to our strategic plans.” To that end, the company chooses its franchisees very carefully, he adds. “They’re excited by the closeknit relationships in our network and understand that we rely on each other to be successful. They’re driven by long term success goals rather than short term profits. They have a passion for our brand, understand they have a role in the overall image and perception of our company, and are willing to share their previous experiences with our network to make our company better.” Currently, Stanschus says Little Kickers’ priority is to help existing franchisees get fully re-established postCOVID-19. “We would love to expand into Quebec and the Atlantic provinces, and that will be a focus area for us going forward.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 51

AWARDING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

FROM LEFT: Bill Tarrabain (president), Jenny Chi (web support manager), Angela Uwitonze (training and development manager), Brad Agnew (director of franchise development)

52 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

AWARDING FRANCHISING EXCELLENCE

"WE’RE BUILDING VISIBILITY AND BRAND AWARENESS AND WANT TO ENSURE THAT WE CAN PROVIDE FULL SUPPORT TO ALL NEW FRANCHISEES."

Roger Arsenault (Broker owner, MaxWell Capital Realty)

- Brad Agnew

MaxWell Realty MaxWell Realty received the award in the traditional franchise category. It has more than 900 agents in 40 different communities across Western Canada. While other real estate franchises offer similar marketing and business management tools to their brokers, it’s usually at an additional cost. MaxWell Realty includes all tools as a standard part of the franchise package. “Our brokerage support and system includes unparalleled tools and services that are normally costly and difficult to obtain for agents and franchisees,” says Brad Agnew, director of franchise development. “Our franchise offices are able to offer agents advanced tools and systems, which help with agent recruitment and retention. We’ve developed a MaxWell app, which is really useful for homebuyers, and is just one example of how we’re continuously working to get more tools into agents’ hands, which ultimately helps our franchise owners to be successful.” An ideal MaxWell Realty franchisee has experience in the real estate market, is networked and connected in the community, possesses leadership skills, and has a good understanding of processes and systems. MaxWell Realty was established in Calgary in 1999 and moved to Edmonton after being purchased by president Bill Tarrabain and his partners in 2017. “Bill is well known and respected across the real estate industry,” says Canyon Creek franchise owner, Roger Arsenault. “His experience, along with the tools and overall support the franchise provides, ensures all new realtors and brokers have what’s needed to be successful in the real estate business.” The brand’s MaxWell University offers training to all new agents to help them understand and implement the various tools, an enormous online library of training resources, and access to industry-specific courses taught by Richard Robbins and many other well-known trainers. The franchisor also conducts site visits and holds regularly scheduled meetings with its franchise owners.

Tarrabain says that new franchisees usually find they have access to a tight knit community of support, with other franchise partners offering advice and information to complement the formal training and resources that MaxWell Realty offers. He sets the tone with his willingness to share his knowledge, and that has led to a culture of mutual support. Franchisees respect each other’s skill sets and are openly helpful to fellow franchisees. “If I run into an area where I need some guidance, I know who to call in the MaxWell network,” says Arsenault, who also gets calls from franchisees who want to tap into his expertise. COVID-19 brought unique challenges to the real estate industry, where direct contact with clients was still required. “It was difficult for agents working out in the community, and ensuring they had the proper support to continue working in a safe and effective way was one of our biggest challenges,” says Agnew. Protocols were put in place to ensure that both agents and their clients were protected. “MaxWell Realty kept forging ahead, by adding new technology for all realtors to use, and continued to provide support through virtual meetings,” says Arsenault. “They kept in touch and ensured that we were aware of any and all government [financial support] programs.” While MaxWell Realty will continue to focus on growth in Alberta and eastern BC, there’s now a franchise location in Manitoba. “We’re in discussion with potential franchisees in Vancouver, Victoria, and Toronto,” says Agnew, who envisions cautious but steady growth in the coming decade. “We’re building visibility and brand awareness and want to ensure that we can provide full support to all new franchisees.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 53

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

Distinguished Franchise Support Service/Supplier Award The Distinguished Franchise Support Service/Supplier Award recognizes a person or 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, as well as its Purpose and Mission - Demonstrated benefit to the community - Involvement throughout the franchise community. Diversity and Inclusion Award The Diversity and Inclusion 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. Hall of Fame Award The Hall of Fame Award is presented to a CFA member franchise in recognition for 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. Lifetime Achievement Award The Lifetime Achievement 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. Outstanding Corporate Citizen Award The Outstanding Corporate Citizen Award is 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. Volunteer Leadership Excellence Award The Volunteer Leadership Excellence Award is presented to an individual who embodies the spirit of passion and leadership in their volunteer activities with the CFA.

54 Canadian Franchise Association

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

RECOGNITION AWARDS

Distinguished Franchise Support Service/Supplier Award: As You Like It Marketing Patti Hone and her team have been serving the franchise industry for more than 30 years through their full service, multi-disciplinary branding and design marketing agency. As You Like It Marketing is a true advocate of franchising, having worked with more than 100 systems and supplier members. Hone has also dedicated countless hours on CFA Committees and has spoken at a number of CFA events, both virtually and in person.

Diversity and Inclusion Champion Award: Driverseat At Driverseat, diversity and inclusion are more than a practice— they’re built into the culture of the organization. The senior leaders at corporate meet monthly to discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives: podcasts to promote, cultural events to prepare for, and voices they want to amplify. They’ve released initiatives to support Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Indigenous History Month, and Pride Month. During each event, they highlight entrepreneurs, team members, and leaders, giving them a space to celebrate their accomplishments and challenge inequality. Internally, the company takes initiative for diversity training and education. Driverseat believes that creating dialogue about differences, challenges, and biases is pertinent to their position of allyship, and ensures that their audience knows that they’re an organization committed to inclusivity.

Hall of Fame Award: The UPS Store The UPS Store services individuals and small businesses in need of printing, shipping, mail and parcel receiving, and other business services. Franchisees of The UPS Store network enjoy training and ongoing support from experienced home office and in-field teams, from grand opening and beyond. As a global brand operating in 220 countries, The UPS Store has more than 300 franchisees in Canada and enjoys a strong brand reputation. The company is an active and immersed member of the CFA, and its team participates in mentoring, speaking events, lead generation, and by serving on the board of directors. The UPS Store is proud to have been designated as an essential service during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 55

RECOGNITION AWARDS

Lifetime Achievement Award: Peter H. Thomas Peter H. Thomas was one of the leading real estate developers and lenders of his time in North America, developing several billion dollars of projects, including shopping centres, apartments and condominiums, land assembly, and golf courses. He brought the franchising rights of CENTURY 21 Real Estate to Canada, growing it for more than 13 years into the largest real estate network in the country. He also founded Samoth Capital Corporation (now known as Sterling Centrecorp Inc.), and developed the Four Seasons Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. Thomas and his team at Thomas Pride International continue to be actively involved in real estate acquisitions and developments in the Phoenix and Seattle markets. Additionally, he’s brought another franchising opportunity to Canada: the dog daycare business Dogtopia, which operates in more than 150 locations across Canada and the US.

56 Canadian Franchise Association

Outstanding Corporate Citizen Award: Mr. Lube Since the creation of its foundation in 2002, Mr. Lube has raised more than $4 million to support many causes across Canada. At Mr. Lube, the second weekend in May is known as MS Weekend. Since its inception in 2007, $2 from each oil change at every Mr. Lube store on MS Weekend has gone to the MS Society of Canada. During the entire month of May, local stores also proudly participate in local MS fundraising initiatives. So far, more than $350,000 has been donated to regional and national programs to fight multiple sclerosis. Since 2000, the Mr. Lube Kids Drive has also raised $1.1 million for local and regional projects that benefit the lives of children. The foundation’s new goal is to reach the $10 million mark in their giving.

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

Volunteer Leadership Excellence Award: Joseph Adler Joseph Adler has always been an active participant in CFA initiatives, supporting the Association’s advocacy work and commencing the revision of by-laws when the Not-forProfit Act changed. Adler has been a key driver of the “Canadianization” of the core content in the Fran-Guard course for the CFA’s Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) Certification Program. Working closely with CFA staff, he has spent countless hours building, reviewing, and critiquing course content for accuracy and user-friendliness, to ensure that the CFA’s first CFE course was successful and engaging. Previously, Adler served as the General Counsel for the CFA and spent more than eight years on the CFA Board of Directors.

Membership Milestones

Every time a franchise joins or renews their CFA membership, they amplify the voice of the collective, commit to excellence in franchising, and 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 2021. SEE THE FULL LIST OF 2021 MEMBERSHIP MILESTONES HERE:

45 year milestones •M cDonald’s Restaurants Canada Ltd

40 year milestones

15 year milestones

5 year milestones

• Bio Ped Franchising Inc

• 3rd Degree Training

• Crock A Doodle

• A Buyer’s Choice

• GEM Health Care Services Inc

• Chicken Delight of Canada Ltd

• Lice Squad Canada Inc

• Elite Trade Contracting Corp Ltd

• Lintott Law • Spirit of Math Schools Inc

• Enlighten Laser and Skin Care Clinic

• Tommy Guns Original Barbershop

• EverLine Coatings & Services Inc • Fairway Divorce Solutions Ltd

• WSI

• First Choice Business Brokers

10 year milestones

• Fishman Canada

• Ascend Franchise Solutions

• GoliathTech Inc

• Canadian Residential Inspection Services

• Just Like Family Family Care

• Great Clips Inc

•O sler Hoskin & Harcourt LLP

• CEFA – Core Education and Fine Arts

• LeakPro International

35 year milestones

• Dale & Lessmann LLP

• Molly Maid

• FranConnect

• The Original San Francesco Foods

•A ctive Green & Ross

30 year milestones •T he UPS Store

• FranNet LLC

• MaidPro

• Outdoor Lighting Perspectives

• Jade Clinics

25 year milestones

• Lawrence, Lawrence, Stevenson LLP

•H and and Stone Massage Spa

• Listen360

•J ani-King Canada

• Metal Supermarkets

•J DI Cleaning Systems Inc

• Miller Nash Graham & Dunn LLP

•M iller Thomson LLP

• Noraxx Inspections Inc

•P arker & Associates Inc

• Pita Land Inc

•T opper’s Pizza

• Postcard Portables Canada

20 year milestones

• Right at Home Canada

•A lexander Holburn Beaudin + Lang LLP

• STOR-X Organizing Systems

• Patrice & Associates Franchising Inc • Pizza Studio • Pür & Simple • Rockcliff Auto • Self Management Group • Tan on the Run • Wellnessnews Choices for Healthy Living • Wing’n it Enterprises Inc

• Scholars

• Yesco Franchising LLC

• Tint World

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 57

PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE CANADIAN FRANCHISE ASSOCIATION SINCE 2001 A LEADER IN LITIGATION AND DISPUTE SERVICES, ALEXANDER HOLBURN HAS REPRESENTED CANADIAN FRANCHISE SYSTEMS FOR 20 YEARS. To learn how we can help you, contact Judy Rost, Partner and Senior Franchise Litigator, at jrost@ahbl.ca or 604 484 1726.

is pleased to present

a Special Franchise Focus on

HOME AND MOBILE-BASED BUSINESSES

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 59

SPECIAL FRANCHISE FOCUS

FRANCHISING ON THE GO Discover why home and mobile-based businesses are increasing in popularity as Canadians adapt to the convenience and comfort of the home office

n today’s changing society, the emergence of businesses that can be operated from a vehicle or home office offers flexibility for both employees and business owners. Whether you’re an entrepreneur that enjoys working on the go or from the comfort of your own home, these home and mobile-based businesses offer a unique and convenient franchise opportunity to become your own boss without a physical office to tend to. The surge in work-from-home opportunities was certainly boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as people worldwide were urged to protect themselves from the virus by staying out of offices, working from the safety of their homes instead. After more than a year and a half of this routine, it’s clear that many have become accustomed to the comfortable lifestyle of working from home and are reluctant to return to the office on a full-time basis. This puts home and mobile-based franchise businesses in an excellent position for growth. Those looking for self-employment opportunities may opt for a business that allows them to continue working in their home office, or even from a vehicle that keeps them on the go and in new environments every day. According to Statistics Canada, 32 per cent of Canadians aged 15 to 69 were working most of their hours from home at

60 Canadian Franchise Association

the beginning of 2021, compared to just four per cent of employees working from home back in 2016. Statistics Canada also reports that 80 per cent of teleworkers (individuals who can work from anywhere, including their homes) say they would prefer to spend at least half of their working hours from home even after the pandemic is behind us. While working from home is a personal preference, some Canadians do report increased productivity with the added comfort and convenience. Fifty-eight per cent of respondents claim that they accomplish the same amount of work per hour, and 32 per cent say they accomplish more work while at home, per Statistics Canada. This is especially useful information for those looking to hire employees within a home or mobile-based business. As the next generation of workers continuously adjusts to work-from-home lifestyles, their productivity will adapt along with them. The convenience and popularity of technology certainly helps with this new transition, making for an exceptional new trend of franchise businesses that can be operated from anywhere and everywhere. Read on to learn why you should consider investing in a home or mobile-based business as you explore franchise opportunities!

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

SPECIAL FRANCHISE FOCUS

Number of Canadians working from home as of February 2021: 5.2 million Of this number, more than 3.1 million Canadians were working from home in response to the COVID-19 pandemic Statistics Canada - Labour Force Survey, February 2021 https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/210312/dq210312a-eng.htm

Teleworkers:

“people who work from home using equipment such as telephones, the internet, and email to contact the people they work with and their customers.” Collins Dictionary https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/ english/teleworker

At the start of 2021, 32% of Canadian employees worked most of their hours from home, compared to 4% in 2016

2016 4%

2021 32%

Teleworkers preference for working from home after the COVID-19 pandemic is over:

80%

prefer to work at least half of their hours from home

41%

prefer working about half of their hours from home and half elsewhere

39%

prefer working most or all of their hours from home

20%

prefer working most or all of their hours outside their home

Teleworkers’ productivity while working from home compared to in the office or their usual place of work:

90%

of teleworkers report being at least as productive working from home

58%

32%

report accomplishing about the same amount of work per hour from home

report accomplishing more work per hour while working from home

Statistics Canada - Working from home: Productivity and preferences https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/45-28-0001/2021001/article/00012-eng.htm https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/210401/dq210401b-eng.htm

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 61

ADVERTORIAL

WITH PEOPLE SPENDING MORE TIME AT HOME, THEY ARE Hickory Dickory Decks provides a convenient franchise opportunity that can INVESTING MORE INbeTHEIR operated from a home office or on the go OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES. business every day provides freedom here was a time when the deci-

BUILD YOUR BUSINESS FROM HOME

to make your own hours, allowing sion-making process for buyyou to attend the important events ing a franchise didn’t include outside of your work life. the need or want for a home-based On top of flexibility, being in the or mobile franchise. However, the decking business means that the COVID-19 pandemic has developed a brand is a seasonal business. Their larger market for such businesses. If franchisees can take a substantial you’re considering a franchise in this amount of time off in the winter to industry, Hickory Dickory Decks has relax, enjoy hobbies, travel, and a franchise opportunity for you. gear up for another phenomenal Hickory Dickory Decks is the decking season. world’s largest custom deck fran“I love to travel. It’s as important chise company. Since 1987, they’ve to me as running a successful busibeen specializing in high quality, low ness. Having a home-based business maintenance decks. They’ve built a allows for both,” says Geoff Aucoin, solid reputation as a leader in this exciting, profitable industry. If you’re of the year, along with the risks that franchisee in Scarborough, Ontario. So, how does Hickory Dickory searching for the right franchise, come from venturing out in the midyou’re no doubt looking for the inde- dle of the pandemic, working from Decks manage to base the business pendence and flexibility that owning home provides flexibility and safety. from home? The power of an estaba franchise can bring you. Working Despite the pandemic, business has lished marketing campaign and brand for yourself has many advantages, never been better. When Hickory power allows new owners to start • An opportunity to be your own boss? including the comfort and conve- Dickory Decks is in the heat of a receiving leads right away. Leads will • Entry into a multi-billion dollar • Theofability toremotely work from homevery andbusy create decking season, avoiding start to come to you primarily from nience working or from home improvement industry own schedule? that commute allows franchisees to the website, decks.ca. Once you’ve theyour comfort of your own home. A strong reputation unmatched qualified the lead, and your sales calls are spend more time doing what• they At healthy Hickory Dickory Decks, they’ve •A and creative work environment? done on site or at your home. created a system that provides their do best: building custom low mainbuying power As a franchisor, they strive to help customers with a well-rounded sales tenance decks for happy customers. • Proven training and support Additionally, fueling the demand each individual franchisee to reach process while still giving franchisees the freedom to work from anywhere. for home-based options is key. their goals. Once you join the HickA major benefit that many existing When you’re a home-based business ory Dickory Decks brand, you’ll be Hickory Dickory Decks franchisees owner, you don’t have to rent office assigned a franchise manager who say is important to them is the fact space, have a store front to upkeep, will help you through every aspect that they get to work from home. This or worry about traveling too far from of the business. On top of this, they includes no out of town traveling, home. This frees up money to bet- offer a one-week course and weekly which offers more free time to spend ter invest in other aspects of your training with the executive team and business. Working from home also CEO. This training is virtual and is with your family and friends. evenings, “When I can be home with my provides several tax benefits that done during both days andFRANCHISES STILLfranchiAVAILABLE sick child, I’m reminded of the very wouldn’t ordinarily be available to allowing even the busiest sees to participate. IN ONTARIO important benefit of owning a Hick- you as a business owner. Hickory DickoryINCLUDING: Decks has loads Hickory Dickory Decks feels they ory Dickory Decks franchise,” says as it Lisa Proctor, franchisee in Cam- offer a fantastic work life balance for of franchise opportunities • COLLINGWOOD country. With local owners. Any number of fran- expands across the bridge, Ontario. • BELLEVILLE left in Ontario, Having the ability to run a home- chisees can be found at the cottage only a few territories • SUDBURY to make based or mobile business has never while still getting work done. Many they would be thrilled • WINDSOR a realCHATHAM been more appealing to some entre- enjoy their franchise because busi- your home-based •business preneurs. With children at home ness needs don’t take them far from ity. Please contact Hickory Dickory MANY PRIME OUT-OF-PROVINCE during the summer months, and home for very long. Not having to Decks for a free consultation to see if LOCATIONS ALSO AVAILABLE! home-schooling throughout the rest arrive to unlock the doors of your it might be the right fit for you.

PROFIT FROM A PROVEN SYSTEM

Are you looking for...

A Hickory Dickory Decks franchise offers:

1.800.263.4774 | decks.ca/franchise

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 improvement industry • A strong reputation and unmatched buying power • Proven training and support

LIMITED

FRANCHISES STILL AVAILABLE IN ONTARIO INCLUDING: • • • • •

COLLINGWOOD BELLEVILLE SUDBURY WINDSOR CHATHAM

MANY PRIME OUT-OF-PROVINCE LOCATIONS ALSO AVAILABLE!

1.800.263.4774 | decks.ca/franchise

ADVERTORIAL

NOVUS GLASS – CLEAR CHOICE

NOVUS Glass’ mobile van is an attractive, low-cost franchise opportunity that allows franchisees to enter the thriving windshield repair business. Here’s how the world’s leading glass repair brand can help you change your game

hese are perhaps the best times for NOVUS Glass and its franchisees. A slew of industry achievements over the past few months has consolidated its position as the world’s first choice for windshield repair and an affordable investment option for franchisees. A few months back, NOVUS Glass took the number one spot for automotive franchises in Entrepreneur magazine’s “Best of the Best” rankings and followed with the ninth spot as “Top Affordable Franchise,” with franchise opportunities available for less than $100,000 – the only automotive franchisor on the list. And it gets better: the brand was also ranked number 21 in the “Top Global Franchise” rankings, making it a trailblazer in the automotive franchise industry. To reduce repair times and ensure better control over repair quality, an increasing number of body shop owners are exploring opportunities to carry out glass repair in-house and consolidating all aftermarket services under one roof. The low cost of incorporating glass repair among their services is an attractive option for smart entrepreneurs, and in this regard, NOVUS Glass is clearly miles ahead of its competitors. “Most collisions involve significant damage to windshields and other critical automotive glass parts,” says Sylvain Seguin, executive vice-president, Canada, Fix Network. “An increasing number of collision repairers are therefore including automotive glass repair and replacement services in their portfolio.” Over the past few years, Fix Network is promoting its NOVUS Glass van franchise opportunity among franchisees. The NOVUS mobile van offers owners the flexibility to set

their own hours and work at their pace. Plus, they receive the added convenience for customers as the expert technicians come to them. In short, you are your own boss while being supported by the NOVUS Glass team. Starting from an investment of as little as $50,000, franchisees can choose to own a fully equipped NOVUS Glass mobile van and then upgrade their operations to an advanced automotive glass repair shop, if they desire. “The NOVUS Glass van option is an excellent entry point for those keen to enter the auto glass repair business and who plan to scale up their operations in the future,” explains Seguin. “We’re always looking to partner with people who have experience in the aftermarket industry and who can take the NOVUS Glass brand to new heights.” Joining the NOVUS Glass van franchise program involves training in repair, replacement, and business management which teaches franchisees everything they need to know and gets them ready to hit the road with a fully equipped and professionally branded van. Owning a NOVUS Glass van franchise means that you don’t need to buy property or rent a commercial

space and set up a garage. You can operate out of your own home and meet your clients wherever they are. And you get to your clients via your NOVUS Glass mobile van which can hold all the tools, resins, equipment, and replacement glass you need to get the job done. For almost five decades, NOVUS Glass has been the industry leader in automotive glass repair and replacement, with over 1,300 points of service worldwide. As vehicle technology evolves, so does NOVUS Glass with 27 patents for glass repair products and a dedicated research and development team working toward more. Through their “Repair First, Replace When Necessary” philosophy, NOVUS Glass and its franchisees have saved more than 44 million windshields from ending up in landfills. “NOVUS Glass has been the trusted brand for franchisees and customers,” adds Seguin. “It’s our goal to make sure that franchisees feel supported and have the right tools and resources locally. As part of that mission, we’re constantly looking at things like, how do you leverage relationships or partnerships to drive profitability for our franchisees? This is the key to our success.”

To learn more about the NOVUS Glass van franchising opportunity or to join the NOVUS Glass family, please visit www.novusfranchising.ca

AUTOMOTIVE FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES

WHAT NOVUS BRINGS YOU FOR AN INVESTMENT UNDER $50,000

Part of Fix Network – Canada’s largest automotive aftermarket services provider

The Inventors & Leaders in Windshield Repair & Replacement

Global expertise – operating in over 1,300 locations in over 30 countries

Turnkey opportunity with NOVUS mobile van supplied

Offer both chip repair and full crack repair up to 12 inches

Currently have 27 patents for glass repair products with our R&D team

Choose NOVUS Glass, a true partner in your success. We believe in our business and so should you!

Extensive operational training program provided with dedicated support manager

Established supplier relationships & buying power

Creative & target marketing solutions provided

You’re invited

to attend the Canadian Franchise Association’s (CFA) Virtual Franchise Canada Show National + Spotlight Showcase!

OCTOBER 18-29, 2021 This two-week long virtual show offers prospective franchisees the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of franchising through franchisor spotlight sessions and educational panel discussions featuring industry experts. The first two days of the event will feature enriching educational sessions, including an Ask an Expert panel and indepth conversations with franchise professionals. You will meet lawyers, bankers, and franchise consultants, all who are vital figures to help you out at the beginning and throughout your franchise journey. For the remainder of the virtual event, attendees will have the chance to connect with franchisors through the Spotlight Showcase. Each Spotlight session will feature a different brand who will share their unique franchise opportunities and how they may align with your business and lifestyle goals. With 2 - 3 Spotlight sessions hosted daily, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and learning to help you narrow down your franchise search from dozens to one, and find the ideal brand to start your small business with. Register today for the FREE for the Virtual Franchise Canada Show National + Spotlight Showcase taking place October 18-31, 2021! We look forward to seeing you there!

Visit https://cfa.ca/virtual-franchise-expo/ for more information.

HOME-GROWN & LOCALLY-OWNED

100% CANADIAN FRANCHISE SYSTEMS

Innovation is the name of the game in the domestic franchise industry. Something new or different—or even a new take on an established product— can work extremely well if that innovation is employed in every part of the system. Each of the three successful concepts here are innovators and have home-grown roots in Canadian soil. BY DAVID CHILTON SAGGERS National Mattress Outlet Plus+

Rafal Kieliszek was on course to become a chartered accountant before dipping his toes into franchising. But after deciding to change career paths, he teamed up with a partner to market and sell a traditional Polish lemon liqueur known as Lemoniada. Then Kieliszek ran into someone who had his own business selling mattresses, who encouraged him to join in. When that didn’t work out, the young entrepreneur found himself left with 30 unsold mattresses and the equipment needed to move them. As difficult as that situation was, it introduced Kieliszek, founder and CEO of National Mattress Outlet Plus+, to others in the mattressretailing sector. Soon, he was off and running selling mattresses from his warehouse in Mississauga, Ontario. Today, there are three corporate stores in the Greater Toronto Area and franchising began earlier this year. National Mattress’s first franchise will open in Hamilton, Ontario, and in the next two to five years, Kieliszek aims to have 10 to 20 franchises in Ontario in cities including Ottawa and Kitchener-Waterloo. He says that national expansion will follow. The total investment for a franchise is $250,000 and training takes one to two weeks at head office in Toronto, plus online instruction. The “sweet spot” for a store is between 6,000 and 7,500 square feet, and Kieliszek’s target customer is anyone shopping in the value-priced segment. Retail or business experience is not necessary to secure a franchise, says Kieliszek, but he does want to encourage prospective franchisees to be comfortable using technology and to be fit, because of the physical side of the business. He also wants a hands-on approach: “I don’t want people to be just an investor. I want them to get to know their own market.” Men seem most interested in the system, but Kieliszek says he’s also seeing more couples making inquiries. COVID-19 has battered many businesses in Canada, but for his company, the opposite has been true. Kieliszek brought in a plan to make sales and delivery as contactless as possible, including the now widespread front door delivery. “It’s crazy how well it worked out during

COVID-19,” he notes. In 2020, volume sales remained steady and when lockdowns were lifted, sales went up. As for the benefits of a National Mattress franchise, Kieliszek says his system is young and in growth mode. Plus, the system has a real online platform and presence—National Mattress was one of the first to use Google ads—and a strong backend structure including working with franchisees to find the best real estate opportunities for their new locations.

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Philthy Philly’s Cheesesteak and Poutinerie

Hockey is one of Canada’s beloved national sports. And it was hockey that presented Danny Kotsopoulos with an opportunity to start Philthy Philly’s Cheesesteak and Poutinerie. Founder and CEO Kotsopoulos says it was driving his hockey-playing son to Philadelphia that acquainted him with a real local specialty: the Philly Cheesesteak. His sandwiches are just like they make them in the City of Brotherly Love, with shaved ribeye steak, provolone cheese, Cheez Whiz, and optional sautéed onions all served on an Amoroso’s bun straight from Philly. Kotsopoulos founded Philthy Philly’s in 2013 in Newmarket, Ontario and began franchising in 2015. There are now 14 franchises in the system, including the original store, with another four locations expected to open in late fall 2021. Initially Kotsopoulos says his target market was 18 to 36 year olds, but he quickly found that his sandwiches are so popular, the system is attracting everyone from “kids to seniors,” with heavy customer traffic at all times of day. Above all else, Kotsopoulos wants to see investors who are customer-oriented. “We value every customer who walks in our doors or orders from us online,” he notes. Philthy Philly’s training program is four weeks and is delivered in person at its support centre. The cost of a franchise is $175,000 to $300,000. Philthy Philly’s

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uses both new builds and retrofits for its storefront operations, with stores of 1,000 to 1,500 square feet preferred. Kotsopoulos’ stores are in and around the Greater Toronto Area, as far west as London, Ontario, and as far east as Whitby, Ontario. He’s eyeing further expansion, explaining how he wants to be established nationally across Canada, and noting he’s already seen interest sparked from franchise prospects in Alberta and Atlantic Canada. When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, Kotsopoulos says he was unnerved and concerned about the business. “We worried about how we would make this work.” Fortunately, as an essential service, Philthy Philly’s has never had to close, and thanks to online website ordering and delivery using SkipTheDishes, DoorDash, and Uber Eats, the franchise system has thrived during these uncertain times. The benefits of investing with Philthy Philly’s are numerous, says Kotsopoulos. As a young and growing company, the brand is popular with customers of all ages, and is backed by Kotsopoulos’ more than 30 years in franchising and restaurant industry experience.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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strEATS Kitchen

The first strEATS Kitchen was born in Calgary in 2017. Since then, the innovative and contemporary street food system has grown to 11 franchises in Western Canada and Ontario, with another dozen more expected within a year. As a part of Joey’s Franchise Group, which has a large portfolio of brands, strEATS is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta and is overseen by founder and CEO Joe Klassen, who first began franchising Joey’s Only Seafood Restaurants back in 1985. Today, vice-president of marketing and design, Dave Holland, says that the strEATS take on food is different from other restaurants. For example, customers can try tacos stuffed with Portuguese-style peri-peri chicken, or poutine topped with Mexican beef. There’s also a creative range of vegetarian options. Holland says that at first, it was thought that strEATS would attract a mostly younger demographic, but the concept has proven to be popular across all age groups. “It’s hard to say who doesn’t like this food,” he says. The cost of a strEATS franchise varies between $270,000 and $350,000 for a new store, and from $175,000 to $310,000 to convert existing premises that a franchisee already owns. Holland says that the sweet spot for a store is 1,200 square feet, and strEATS considers locations in

both malls and on street fronts. The system’s franchisees are mainly businesspeople, with an interest in multiple units. Training is generally held in Calgary, but the system can train new franchisees regionally. Potential franchisees will need hands-on leadership skills and should be tech-savvy and problem solvers. Holland adds, “We prefer people with food service experience.” The COVID-19 pandemic was a shock, and the hard part was managing restrictions in different provinces, notes Holland. strEATS fought back by promoting awareness of its mobile ordering application. Regardless of how it’s delivered to customers, he still says, “Our food is awesome for both take-out and delivery.” The principal benefit of buying into a strEATS franchise is the food. But, Holland says there’s also a solid franchising record behind the system, a strong digital advertising strategy, and “the brand has an above average return compared with other concepts.”

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NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING

Pie-in-the-Sky Ambition Vancouver-based couple and Pizza Pizza franchisees Kim Le and James Jackson rise to the challenge BY GINA MAKKAR

2020

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Photo credit: Laura Shortt Photography

was a rollercoaster for the food service industry, but one thing remained constant: Canadians’ love of pizza. According to Technomic’s 2020 Canadian Pizza Consumer Trend Report, the number of consumers that order pizza at least once a month grew by 14 per cent last year. In fact, 52 per cent of consumers say that pizza is a preferred menu item. It’s easy to see why young franchisees like Kim Le and James Jackson are clamouring for a piece of the pie. The Vancouver-based couple opened their Pizza Pizza location in January 2020. Partners in business and in life, the pair met while working at a steakhouse. And as experts in high-end food and service, their skills easily transferred from selling hundreddollar steaks to selling $7.99 walk-in pizza specials. “It’s the same passion. I love working in restaurants. I love how dynamic things are and how quickly things can change, and you’re always thinking on your feet,” says Le.

NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING

“I have 12 years of fine dining experience, so it was quite a shift, but worked to my benefit. I’ve been trained to see the details in everything,” Le adds. Jackson’s experience spans a variety of establishments, from sports bars to fine dining and bistros. “I went to culinary school, so I’m a certified chef. It certainly helps with dayto-day operations and future innovations,” he says. Prior to Pizza Pizza, the duo also worked as restaurant consultants, helping to increase efficiencies and overhaul menu designs and recipes. “To summarize us, we’re restaurant people,” says Jackson. Community spirit When the couple decided to open something of their own, they turned to franchising. “We had the experience, passion, drive, and energy to do it, but we wanted a systematic approach to building a business, something that was already established,” says Le. “We’re a young couple, and we wanted to build this foundation for our family and our future.” Though the Pizza Pizza brand was well-established in the east, it was looking for new opportunities in western provinces. “We found out they were coming to British Columbia, the last stop of their total Canadian domination,” says Le. With the full force of Pizza Pizza behind the B.C. expansion, it was the right choice for the enter-

prising duo. In addition to unparalleled brand recognition and tried-and-true practices, Le says the company has their finger on the pulse of what consumers really want, and can pivot and adapt to changing markets. In fact, the young, trendy, and vibrant Vancouver market brimmed with love and support: neighbours were knocking on the door before Le and Jackson’s location was even open. The couple launched a mere two months before the pandemic hit. “Starting at the same time as a pandemic, what bigger challenge could there be?” asks Le. Like other businesses, they struggled to gain footing and make sense of ever-changing rules and public health orders, but they carried on, determined to succeed. “It wasn’t business as usual,” says Le. “We were already working to gain the trust of the community around us, but now we had to up our game and work harder and faster. We had to treat customers better than our competitors, and make a better product, and we had to be consistent about it.” Jackson adds that shifting to contactless delivery was also a challenge. “We lost that personal interaction with our customers—which is important in a hospitality setting, as first impressions count and a lot of our customers only order delivery.” To combat this, they got creative, writing jokes on the inside lids of the pizza boxes to add a personal touch and ignite the customer relationship.

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NEXT GENERATION IN FRANCHISING ing their success in the first year. “I can’t stress enough how much help he’s been, not just when we first opened, but continuously. He always picks up,” says Jackson. Le adds, “If he doesn’t know something, he’ll leave no stone unturned. He’ll get answers for you. He’s the hardest working person I’ve ever met... I would attribute a lot of our success in the B.C. market to him.”

With orders through third-party providers like SkiptheDishes on the rise, they also worked hard to recapture the market and guide customers back to ordering through the Pizza Pizza channels. “We’ve been able to create some good relationships with people by doing that. It’s a silver lining to the situation, and a positive for us,” says Jackson. In the early days, Jackson and Le often worked from open to close, doing a lot of the deliveries themselves. “We still take most of the deliveries. Coming from our background, we understand that a little smile and ‘thank you’ goes a long way and resonates a lot of happy memories for our customers,” says Jackson. “We have to do everything we can to create that positive experience.” Franchise system support “When I tell people about the support the franchisor offers, they don’t believe me because it’s so great,” says Le. Pizza Pizza’s intensive training spans three phases, from online training and certifications to hands-on training at the learning centre in Toronto. Realizing six weeks was a long time to be away, Pizza Pizza pivoted to create comprehensive training for their West Coast contingency in a three-week period rather than six. Training culminates with an in-store experience, where franchisees can troubleshoot first-hand issues prior to opening their doors. “Everyone is helpful and accessible. They’re always happy to have a conversation with you,” says Le. The couple has clearly done something right. They were appointed as B.C. corporate trainers, an accomplishment they’re proud of and humbled by, and they added fundamental content to the phase three syllabus by drawing on their experience. Knowing support is just a phone call away is a big benefit to any franchisee. The couple says that business development manager Alex Chong was pivotal in foster-

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Young and enterprising For Jackson, there are big benefits to aligning with a franchise instead of launching a solo operation. There’s much to offer, from market analysis and menu campaigns to advertising and supply chain resources, “things people often skip over when they think about opening a restaurant.” For Jackson and Le, having these practices in place frees their time to focus on other areas, like interacting with customers. “We know all our regular customers by first name, because a lot of our time has been made available. If we were solo, we’d have to manage a lot of the back-of-house. Creating relationships with customers creates longevity of the business.” Becoming franchisees at 28 years old, the couple says they didn’t have the confidence they have now. “Neither of us had operated a franchise restaurant before. I think there was a little self doubt, but our actions reassured our confidence, and now with Pizza Pizza investing in us, that self doubt is gone,” says Jackson. It was a leap of faith. “There’s always going to be a reason not to do something,” says Le. “We joined something that’s great for us, and has worked out well for both parties. It was the right choice at the right time.” Jackson advises prospective franchisees to be prepared by doing their own research. “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail, which is a motto we use quite a lot in our store.” He adds that a key to success is investing in staff. In addition to vetting their staff properly prior to hiring, Jackson and Le foster a family environment, coming together as a team for Friday night family dinners. “When the staff have your respect, they care, and it becomes their restaurant as well.” As young entrepreneurs, the duo rose to the challenge, taking the pizza game by storm with the intention of growing, expanding, and thriving. “We’ve found it’s a two-way street with Pizza Pizza,” says Le. “They’re always doing something new and innovative. They look to grow and impress the market, and that allows us to grow with them. We’ve had a great relationship so far, and it’s only going to get better.”

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LEADERSHIP PROFILE

BOARDWALK EMPIRE

Boardwalk Fries Burgers Shakes vice president Audra Wosik sets sights with the brand for further growth across Canada

BY ROMA IHNATOWYCZ

nless you’re located in Alberta, there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of Boardwalk Fries Burgers Shakes, a premium burger brand with 11 locations across the province. But that’s about to change, and fast, as the franchise eatery braces for explosive growth in other parts of the country, beginning with Ontario. It opened its first location there late last year and aims to have as many as 20 stores up and running by the end of summer 2022. “A year from now, we should have 15 to 20 locations open in Ontario, which is a huge expansion during this difficult time,” says Audra Wosik, VP of development. “And we’re doing active recruiting in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and obviously Alberta. You’re going to start seeing Boardwalk all over Canada, and

even internationally.” Expanding at this pace in the country’s most populous province in the middle of a pandemic is no easy task. All the more so when you’re launching into an already crowded burger market. In fact, some would say you need nerves of steel. That doesn’t faze Wosik. As a franchise professional with an illustrious career spanning almost three decades, she’s honed her skills at some of the country’s—and world’s—leading franchise brands and is certainly up to the task of growing Boardwalk in Canada. She’s also bullishly confident in its success. “A year from now, you won’t be referring to us as a ‘start-up’ in Canada or even a new brand,” she says. “We’re going to be a household name.”

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LEADERSHIP PROFILE

Building a strong career path Wosik has the credentials to make this assertion. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in labour studies from McMaster University in the mid ‘90s, she started her career in franchising at Jumbo Video, moving on to Denninghouse (owners of the A Buck or Two! brand), and then Neoset, followed by Regis Corporation, which owns dozens of hair salon brands, including First Choice Haircutters. Wosik then shifted gears to food service, working at Cara as its franchise development manager and then Burger King Canada as its senior director of franchise development and operations. She was also VP of franchising, real estate, and construction at Second Cup, and at one point, ran her own consultancy, advising established brands as well as start-ups just entering the Canadian market. Joining the Boardwalk team in Canada seemed like a natural progression. While the brand has enjoyed success in the U.S. since it first launched there in 1981, it only made its way to Canada five years ago when two Alberta-based entrepreneurs bought the master franchise rights for Canada as well as the international market. They felt that the premium fresh burgers and fries, tasty shakes, and fun, retro branding had potential north of the border and further afield. They’ve already opened their first international location in Qatar. With their sights set on further expansion, the owners eventually bought the trademark rights and estab-

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lished another administrative hub in Ontario. They also asked Wosik to join their team to help them expand. The industry veteran saw the brand’s potential and jumped on board. “There were a few things that appealed to me,” she says. “One was that it was a high-quality, fresh not frozen burger brand, and that it had a Halal menu. We’re pretty much the only premium burger place that’s fully Halal. What also makes us different from other burger brands is our low start-up investment for franchisees.” Franchisees need around $150,000 in unencumbered cash and a net worth of half a million dollars to secure financing, which is substantially lower than the funding required for most major burger chains. What also impressed Wosik was the investment the owners were making in setting up a separate administrative hub in Ontario in advance of their expansion there. “They built a support team before we even had stores in place,” she notes. “They built the infrastructure, so as soon as the franchisee is signed up, we’re ready to go. That’s a really smart way to do things—invest in the infrastructure so we can have methodical and well-rounded growth in Ontario, and then further east as well.” A promising future Based on the earnings of the company’s first store in the province, things are looking promising for Boardwalk. The Scarborough, Ontario location opened just as the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020, right before provincial restrictions began to tighten. Yet

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LEADERSHIP PROFILE

“[FRANCHISING] IS NOT ABOUT MANAGING DOWN, IT’S ABOUT MANAGING WITH FRANCHISEES.” - Audra Wosik

despite this inauspicious start, and being closed for instore dining for seven months of the year, it still managed to meet its projected earnings with its mostly take-out and delivery business. For its part, Boardwalk rallied to help its franchisees on several fronts—from bumping up its online social media advertising to enhancing its take-out and delivery processes. The franchisor helped secure better deals with third-party delivery providers, reducing percentages paid out to them, and arranged dedicated pick-up parking spaces in front of their locations for ease of service. “Before the pandemic, 70 per cent of our business was dine in. Now, we had to shift and go the other way,” says Wosik. “We had to explore other avenues.” The company also negotiated rent deferrals with landlords and guided franchisees through complex government subsidies and rent support programs. For new franchisees, they’ve started adding pandemic-related clauses to their lease contracts, protecting them in the event of another COVID-19 lockdown. Wosik points out that these supports add up to important advantages for franchisees over independent business owners. “Having a corporate office behind you to help guide you through programs and help you with your supplier, landlord, and third-party partners is key to a lot of the success that franchisees have had through the pandemic,” she says. As for her own success, Wosik credits her ability to build relationships with those around her. Franchising, she points out, “is not about managing down, it’s about managing with franchisees. It’s about convincing, not telling, and getting franchisees to understand why they should do something.” As a successful woman with years of experience working at the executive level in franchising, Wosik is somewhat of an inspiration to females entering the industry.

And while women may still be underrepresented in franchising, both at the executive level and as franchisees, this is changing, she says. Women are increasingly holding positions in real estate or construction, as opposed to their more traditional marketing roles, and signing on as franchisees in once male-oriented businesses. “Women need to explore more non-traditional franchise opportunities because they can be very lucrative and they can enjoy them, and I think we’re getting there,” says Wosik, who also sits on the Canadian Franchise Association’s Women in Franchising Committee. “There are also far more programs aimed at helping women start a business at banks or through the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, which is fantastic.” When it comes to advice for franchisees, male or female, Wosik points to her number one tip: stay actively involved in your business. “Franchisees need to be active owner-operators in their business—that’s imperative,” she says. “People will buy a $100,000 sports car and won’t let anybody touch it, but they buy a million-dollar business and never go there. It makes no sense. They have to be there, and they also have to be very active in their community. Your business is going to be successful by the four to five kilometres around your location.” If you’re lucky enough to be in proximity to a Boardwalk franchise, you should pop by for a bite. If you’re not, wait a bit. Given the rapid expansion of this promising brand, and the strong talent behind it, there’s a good chance you will be soon.

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

Sweet Treat Tradition

Victoria-based BeaverTails franchisee Mark Mebs shares his experience operating three locations with the popular Canadian brand BY JESSICA BURGESS

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

ith more than 160 locations across Canada, as well as several in the U.S. and abroad, BeaverTails Pastry has been serving up its signature treats since 1978. BeaverTails’ quick-service storefront and mobile locations delight customers with the unique combination of fresh, hot pastry and a rich variety of topping options—from chocolate hazelnut spread and apple pie filling to the classic cinnamon and sugar. When Mark Mebs was considering potential franchises, he was attracted to the company’s longstanding reputation as a sweet Canadian tradition. “The concept is simple,” he shares, “and it’s very easy to operate. It has reasonable margins, and it creates an irresistibly delicious product that customers love.” Mebs first started out as a BeaverTails franchisee with one storefront location in Victoria, British Columbia. Today, Mebs has three franchise locations in B.C., with a mobile BeaverTails franchise that services Vancouver Island and a brand-new shop in Whistler. Key ingredients: hard work and lists Mebs’s daily routine has certainly changed since he opened his first location, although no day is ever like the next. “It’s funny, because some days go exactly as you planned them,” says Mebs, “and other days, at the end, you think: wow, that didn’t go anything like I thought it would!” Nevertheless, Mebs has some typical activities within his varying routine: “I definitely have tasks that need to be done multiple times a week, but when I do them depends on what’s going on that week—for example, whether we have mobile events scheduled, whether I have scheduled myself to be in the Victoria store, whether I have to create an order, do payroll, and so on.” So, while there’s no typical day per se, there is some consistency from week to week. “My days start around 7:30 a.m. and end sometime around midnight or so, but it’s

not go, go, go all day long and I usually try to plan some ‘me time’ in there as well,” he says. “Throughout the day I’m always updating my list of things that I need to, have to, or want to do so I can stay organized. For me, this seems to be the secret to staying calm. If I’ve got it written down on my list, I know I won’t forget about,” says Mebs. He reviews the list each evening and makes a plan for the next day based on the list. “This actually helps me sleep too, because I don’t have to worry about the following day—I already know what I’m going to be doing, so I don’t find myself stressing about it,” he adds. Mebs’s work ethic sees him through each day and into the next. One of the habits that helps him tackle everything on his list is working in the evenings. “I find that I can get more done in the evenings when the majority of people are done working for the day,” he explains. During those hours, Mebs works on things like scheduling, payroll, emails, inventory, and orders, but he also makes sure to leave time for planning activities to help him grow his business, whether that means new ways to engage with customers, social media, or how to get the word out about where the mobile trailer will be the next day. “These are the late-night activities I work on that keep me up until midnight most nights,” says Mebs, adding, “It’s a part of the business that I really enjoy doing, so I don’t mind late-night brainstorming instead of getting a couple extra hours of sleep.” On top of all of that, he also works at the Victoria storefront one or two evenings a week, and sometimes mobile events take his work into the evenings. On the move The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly affected every business and indeed every person in different ways. The service industry, including food service, has had to make unprecedented changes in the way it operates

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

to safely serve customers and take care of employees. Given Mebs’s desire to keep moving forward with his business, he looked for places where he could make positive changes during these uncertain times. Mebs only had one of his franchise locations in operation when the pandemic began, and he was able to invest in the two other locations, including the mobile trailer, since then. Mebs notes that the problem his business and so many others faced was the lack of tourists—and on top of that, Victoria locals weren’t venturing downtown even when restrictions began to lift. “Instead of just accepting that fact and waiting for things to return back to normal, we made the decision to invest in a mobile BeaverTails franchise so we could bring our treats wherever the people were instead of waiting for them to possibly come downtown eventually,” says Mebs. “Fortunately for us, the ski hills in B.C. were still open when we opened our mobile franchise, and we were actually able to operate at a ski hill during the 2020 to 2021 ski season. We had a super beginning to our mobile BeaverTails experience, and we couldn’t have asked for something better, especially with the year we were all having,” he says. Support system Part of what has allowed Mebs to flourish despite the stress and uncertainty of the last year is the support of being a part of an established franchise system. “One of the benefits of being a franchisee is having access to a large network of like-minded people with the same general goals that you have and being able to draw on their experiences and ideas,” says Mebs, noting that many of the changes he’s made within his own business have been best practices that he’s learned through colleagues’ experiences with their own locations. “The best part is how everyone makes themselves available to you and really wants to help you succeed. The same goes with the executive team at the head office,” he notes. For Mebs, the benefit of franchising is being able to run your own locations as your own businesses, but also having

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the confidence of knowing that there’s a franchise team behind you that’s willing to work with you to help you be successful. “There are a lot of growth opportunities for BeaverTails, especially out west where I am,” Mebs shares, “and that really excites me because right from the start, I knew I wanted to have more than one location.” Part of the joy of franchising comes from the people he gets to work with across his three locations. “Our entire team is made up of such genuinely happy and caring individuals. It creates a fun and inviting atmosphere that I find incredible, and it makes it difficult not to smile when you’re with them.” Mebs suggests that an ideal BeaverTails franchisee would be someone much like those on his team—enthusiastic, fun, open, adaptable, and resilient. “Having a positive attitude is also what helps me get through a typical day, regardless of what’s thrown at me. Whenever a situation comes up that needs my attention, instead of looking at it like it’s a problem, I look at it more like a challenge being presented to me that I have been given the opportunity to defeat,” says Mebs. “So once a situation is resolved, I really feel like I’ve accomplished something more than just solving a problem—I feel like I won and I can celebrate something!” Mebs’s final advice to anyone considering becoming a franchisee? “Be prepared and committed to invest your time and energy into your business if you want to be successful,” he says. It’s clear that Mebs is a part of a franchise system that he cares about deeply, and it’s obvious the joy he finds in his work. Simply put, Mebs says, “Every day I get to be involved in a franchise that helps to put smiles on people’s faces.”

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THE FIRST YEAR

Quick Service Success How first-year success led to the expansion of three restaurants in Surrey, B.C., for Quesada franchisee Daksh Patel BY JORDAN WHITEHOUSE

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THE FIRST YEAR

hen Daksh Patel opened his first Quesada Burritos & Tacos location in June 2019 in Surrey, B.C., he owned two pharmacies in the city. On the surface, it appeared that his time was already stretched thin enough. How would he be able to make his foray into the restaurant business a success? The answer: hard work and a lot of help. And now, looking back at that first year, it was definitely all worth it, he says. By December 2019, sales at Daksh’s first Quesada were growing steadily. In June 2020, during the height of pandemic restrictions, he opened a second store in Surrey, and then a third in June 2021. It wasn’t easy finding such rapid success, especially with an already thriving pharmacy business, but it helped that he chose Quesada, he explains. “I was always fascinated with the food industry and wanted to get in, but when I looked at other food franchises, I found the process wasn’t as easy and the demands on my time would’ve been a lot [greater]. Quesada was also really welcoming and they’re one of the fastest growing franchises.” In 2020, the Globe and Mail recognized the quick service restaurant franchise as one of the top 400 fastest growing companies in Canada. In 2012, there were just 10 Quesada locations across the country. Now, there are more than 150, and they’re found in nearly every province. But according to former Quesada president Tom O’Neill, Quesada isn’t looking to be the fastest-growing or largest chain. “[We] want to be the first choice among consumers, and that means focus on quality and taste,” he said in a 2013 interview with QSR Magazine. When Steve Gill and his brother Greg founded Quesada back in 2004 in Toronto, it was one of the first res-

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taurant franchises in Canada to spark the burrito trend while also offering a fresher, healthier, whole food experience. Burritos are still some of the most popular items, but the restaurants also offer tacos, quesadillas, burrito bowls, nachos, and more. Much of the menu is prepared with house-made salsas, house-cooked rice and beans, and house-roasted tomatoes and peppers. Taste makers The food was one of the main reasons why Daksh chose Quesada back in 2019. He and his entire family are huge Mexican food fans, and he appreciated that the menu options could be nutritional as well, he says. “We even roast the chiles to make our salsa from scratch. And being a healthcare professional, I always prefer freshness and healthy options. So, it was just the way to go for me.” Cooking that fresh food and hearing positive reviews from customers were two of the most enjoyable parts of his first year in business, he says. There were no Quesada locations in his area of Surrey at the time, so it was the first chance that most of those customers had to try the food. Many of them would return again and again for the same items but would try new favourites too, says Daksh. “Quesada does a great job of changing recipes, adding new items, and [promoting] limited time offers.” They often switch up protein offerings, like different types of pork, beef, or drunken chicken, and offer a rotation of vegan and healthy options as well. “That tends to bring in a lot of different types of people. Head office spends a ton of money on marketing, and that’s been great for us.” Head office also prepared Daksh properly to be a franchisee, he says. There was an initial three-day training session at a Quesada location in British Columbia just

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THE FIRST YEAR Daksh Patel (right) poses with general manager Ronak Patel (left) and store manager Bhupinder Dhaliwal at his newest Quesada location in south Surrey.

to give him an idea of what to expect at the full training in Ontario. Once there, the 14-day educational program encompassed everything he would need to know to run his restaurant, including cooking, cleaning, operations, and more. Daksh also found that the ongoing training and support has been solid. The company has an online portal for franchisees that includes information on almost everything franchisees need to run their business. There is also a help desk for franchisees to call or email, which responds quite fast, he says. “Plus, some of the people who work for the company give out their personal numbers so that you can contact them at any time if you need help.” Rising to the challenge All of that support served Daksh well in the first year in business, but still, there were some challenges to overcome. Chief among them was location. Because his store was the first Quesada in the area at the time, people were unaware of the restaurant and were hesitant to visit. The first few months in particular were slow, he says. But then head office put its marketing efforts into full gear, supporting a Facebook marketing campaign, a local flyer advertisement, and a grand opening sale where any customer who walked through the door over two days would receive a free burrito. “After all of that, we were doing great,” he says. “By the end of 2020, that store was one of the top 10 stores for sales in Canada.” However, before hitting that mark, Daksh had to make it through the early days of the pandemic, which were hard on the restaurant. “We actually had to shut down the restaurant for about a month in April 2020 just

because customers were scared to visit and we wanted to keep staff and everyone safe. We just didn’t have a clear picture of what was going to happen.” By May, though, the restaurant was back up and running, and Quesada’s marketing team went to work securing deals with SkipTheDishes, Uber Eats, and DoorDash. In about three months, sales were back to normal and Daksh had opened his second location in Surrey. Now he has three Quesada locations, which actually isn’t that rare for franchisees. About half of all Quesada franchisees have opened multiple restaurants. Still, it’s taken a lot of hard work and dedication to the business to get here, says Daksh—which is one of his main pieces of advice for new Quesada franchisees. “You have to focus on the business,” he says. “For example, when I started the business, I had to hand over my pharmacy businesses to my brother so that I could dedicate myself to Quesada in that first year. That’s very important.” He also says that to find success with Quesada, you have to follow the guidelines provided by head office. That, coupled with the public’s growing affinity for fresh, healthy food, will keep people coming back for more. “I can definitely say that you can make money with this business. Customers love it, they love that it’s fresh and healthy and that there are lots of options for them. So, it’ll work out.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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EMERGING BRAND

THE FUTURE OF FOOD FRANCHISING

Crest Kitchens positions itself well during the COVID-19 pandemic as a take-out and delivery only concept

BY STEFANIE UCCI

he world around us is changing every day, and there’s no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic advanced society’s interaction with technology while decreasing face-to-face contact with others. For more than a year, individuals across the country and worldwide were confined to their homes and turned to food delivery services to keep themselves fed. Among the many establishments that provide convenient meals to Canadians is Crest Kitchens, a take-out and delivery only franchise concept. It provides customers with variety, convenience, and value with its four menu options under one roof: The Fish & Chip Shoppe,

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Perogies and Poutine, Sandwich Chef, and Wing Shack. “What we identified as a natural restaurant evolution, due to the increasing desire for delivery, became an instant necessity [during COVID-19] due to the demand from consumers across demographics who, if they weren’t already using delivery partners and ordering in, now found themselves having to adapt quickly,” says vice president Bill Argo. He notes that the brand concept was already several years in the making before the pandemic arrived in March 2020, but it did push the multi-menu, delivery, and take-out only idea to the forefront.

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EMERGING BRAND

“Crest Kitchens has carved out its own home-grown niche concept with four to six original brands, specifically developed—from scratch—to provide homemade, quality food items that appeal to a wide demographic. [The concept] provides choice in one beautifully designed location, solving the guest dilemma of how to satisfy various tastes and cravings,” explains Argo, who notes that the brand has little or no competitors with its unique franchise concept. The four menu options under the Crest Kitchens umbrella—which will soon include two additional menu choices—allow customers to order dishes from different restaurant cuisines, which are then neatly packed up in environmentally friendly packaging and delivered to their door. Wing Shack serves up meaty wings and chicken tenders tossed in a variety of sauces and available in different sized boxes. Perogies & Poutine serves these two comfort food favourites and adds flavour-packed toppings and sauces like barbecue grilled pork, butter chicken, nacho toppings, Korean barbecue, and more. Sandwich Chef uses quality ingredients and homemade sauces for unique sandwiches stacked with burger patties, vegetables, schnitzel, and chicken. The Fish & Chip Shoppe specializes in classic fish and chips with crispy battered fish fillets and sides of French fries and traditional coleslaw. “By incorporating experienced virtual reality kitchens, we also have the benefit of knowing what products work best in the multi-menu aspect presented by Crest Kitchens, and changes can be made easily and effectively to any item,” says Argo. “It’s a ‘one stop’ multi option delivery and take-out concept that works perfectly with the needs of today’s dining customers.”

Argo adds that Crest Kitchens plans to have 15 locations open in the next 18 months, with the first three locations opening in the Greater Toronto Area throughout 2021. Ideally, he says there will be hundreds of locations open in Canada, with the aim of securing master franchise rights in provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, the Maritimes, and Saskatchewan. In the future, the brand plans to franchise internationally, starting with the United States and then abroad in other countries. As for the ideal franchisee with Crest Kitchens, it’s someone with a lot of “passion,” notes Argo, though the “perfect” franchisee doesn’t necessarily need restaurant or business experience. “[However,] they do need to be passionate about looking at each day as a chance to connect with people, adapt to changes, and seize the opportunity that will lead to successful results… Commitment is another quality, in terms of the desire to follow through in all respects: commitment to the proven operational systems, commitment to quality, commitment to the customer, and of course to the team.” Initial and ongoing training from the brand includes “concise, straightforward, and easy to follow operational systems with a two-week, hands-on comprehensive training program,” says Argo. Franchisees are provided a hassle-free, turnkey operation with support from the franchisor team throughout the complete build out of the restaurant. The team also assists with the store opening inventory, helps with hiring and training of staff, provides a dedicated transition tutor that’s present for the first week of the restaurant’s operation and conducts ongoing visits and communications afterwards, and offers an inhouse marketing team to guide franchisees through the initial and ongoing marketing of their business.

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EMERGING BRAND

“Support is continually offered through the World Manager™ online support system which holds all manuals, recipes, and videos that are required for the franchisee. Crest Kitchens also provides support in conjunction with Gordon Foods Services with the use of their kitchen training facility and dedicated representatives,” says Argo. “Because your success is our success enhanced, follow-up and ongoing communication is provided diligently. As franchisors, we aim to be as responsive to all requests and to direct enquires to the most immediate point of resolution.” The Crest Kitchens state-of-the-art communications platform clearly lays out all initial and ongoing training, menu, procedural, and sanitation updates, and recipe videos for franchisees. As for the benefits of franchising with Crest Kitchens, Argo says the biggest is that franchisees join a business that’s at the beginning of a new niche in the restaurant industry, but is also ahead of the competition. “While Crest Kitchens is a new and exciting venture, with the benefit of very little direct competition, the strength of our solid back-end experience puts franchisees at a greater advantage as they’re not experiencing the growing pains of a new and untested concept,” says Argo. The total targeted turnkey investment for Crest Kitchens is $305,000 with five per cent royalty fees and

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two per cent advertising fees. Average restaurants are 1,000 square feet and feature digital menu displays and screens, as well as self-serve order and pay kiosks to provide a contact free ordering experience. Argo adds that being in a quick-service segment of the dining industry is often looked at by investors and banking institutions as a more favourable concept to invest in due to the post-COVID-19 appeal of contactless pickup and delivery options. Plus, joining the emerging brand early means that the price point of entry is attractive and affordable for new investors. The franchisor team has 28 years of experience with signing more than 50 leases, and upholds a strong legal team, making right now, as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, an ideal time to invest in an on-trend and competitive brand, he says. “As an original, multi-menu, one stop QSR concept, we don’t really see any brands out there doing what we’ve done at Crest Kitchens,” says Argo. “We see this as the future of new restaurant development due to the consequences of COVID-19.”

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

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SHOW ME THE MONEY

4 FRANCHISES FOR $150K-$250K Franchising is about diversity, and opportunities may 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 $150K-$250K. Canadian Residential Inspection Services Ltd.

Padgett Business Services

Canadian Residential Inspection Services Ltd. has been conducting home inspections since 1988. An industry leader in training and support, its training is accredited by the National Home Inspectors Certification Council, and even includes a mentorship program. Franchisees can take advantage of ongoing support drawn from more than 30 years of experience in the residential inspection industry. With low overhead and no monthly royalties, this franchise lets you keep money in your pocket, and franchisees have the potential for a six-figure income. Territories are available across Canada.

For more than 50 years, Padgett Business Services has been the leading provider of accounting and tax services to small businesses. Padgett offices throughout Canada and the U.S. specialize in providing accounting, tax preparation, and tax consulting, as well as strategic planning services to clients. If you have an accounting or financial background, Padgett could be an ideal franchise ownership opportunity for you. Padgett is creating success stories, one entrepreneur at a time.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Furniture Medic of Canada Furniture Medic specializes in wood furniture repair/ restoration, offering affordable alternatives to the replacement of furnishings and fixtures for residential and commercial customers. Its services are needed in homes, offices, hospitals, hotels/restaurants, and more. Furniture Medic services furniture manufacturers and retail outlets, along with the hospitality and moving industries. Experience isn’t necessary, but a background as a handyman, or in woodworking or furniture repair provides a good base. Furniture Medic offers franchisees the tools to run their business, including training and marketing.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Wellnessnews Canada, Inc. Wellnessnews Canada, Inc. is a community-based, health-focused advertising agency. The approach is simple: it helps health-related local brands foster meaningful connections and provides them with multimedia marketing platforms that include print— Wellnessnews Choices for Healthy Living®—online health directory hubs and social media advertising, branding and visual identity, design, copywriting, and community management. Wellnessnews Canada, Inc. is the perfect home-based business that provides you with independence and flexibility to suit your lifestyle. Benefits include in-house creative, editorial, and printing that’s provided by corporate. There’s also very low overhead, and long-term residual revenues.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 85

FRANCHISE FUN

A LOADED FRANCHISE ADVENTURE

Loaded Pierogi founder Adam Dolley dishes on how the brand delivers “creative flavor combinations” for guests

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FRANCHISE FUN

t Loaded Pierogi, the Polish staple dish gets a modern and fun twist that’s sure to impress foodies across Canada and the U.S. The brand was founded in 2014 by a pair of classically trained chefs, Adam Dolley and Bryan Burke, who combined have more than 50 years of foodservice experience. Dolley says that Loaded Pierogi takes the “classic staple comfort food dishes and makes them ‘Loaded’ with creative flavor combinations and ingredients.” With five locations across Canada, “Our franchise company has grown to almost being coast to coast. We are as far west as Alberta and will be opening a new location in PEI this fall,” he says. Guests can choose from plates that start with a layer of traditional style pierogi, French fries, or mac ‘n’ cheese. Then, their dishes get “loaded” with a variety of toppings to choose from including wild mushrooms, buffalo chicken, Québec goat cheese, and much more. Here, the self-described funny, loyal, and outgoing Dolley shares his love-hate relationship with golf, the accomplishment he most looks forward to with Loaded Pierogi, his endearing relationship with his grandmother, and his handy advice for prospective franchisees. The most interesting thing I’ve done recently is… Not much…Thanks, COVID-19. In its best form, work is… My passion and creative outlet. A good franchisee… Should be honest and have open lines of communication. A good franchisor… Should be supportive, a good listener, and innovative. My top advice for prospective franchisees is… Do your research and choose something that interests you. Stick to the systems that the franchisor has set out for you—it’s the reason why you purchased a franchise and didn’t do something independently. The most important thing in life is… To be happy, laugh, and maintain a positive attitude, while eliminating negative energy.

One of the most enjoyable things to do is… Play golf—it’s a love-hate relationship.

The key to success is… To work hard, learn from your mistakes, and always try to be better.

The hardest thing for me to do is… Time management.

I’d like my friends to describe me as… Loyal, trustworthy, and funny.

My favourite drink is… An Old Fashioned.

The accomplishment I look forward to the most is… Having 50 franchise locations.

If I could change one thing… The Toronto Maple Leafs would win a Stanley Cup. The person who has had the most positive influence on me as a businessperson is… My business partner, Bryan Burke.

One necessary item on my life’s “to do” list is… Watch the golf Masters Tournament in person.

My franchise system began because… We felt we had something that nobody else was doing. The most positive influence on my life as a person is… My grandmother. She taught me to question everything and be polite, but don’t let anyone walk over you.

Learn more at LookforaFranchise.ca

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 87

Q A

ASK A LEGAL EXPERT Are Non-Compete Obligations Typical in Franchising? A VERY COMMON QUESTION I get from those who are new to franchising is whether non-compete obligations are typical in franchise agreements. In its most common form, a non-compete obligation will provide that during the term of the franchise agreement, and for a stated period of time after its expiration or termination, the franchisee won’t be involved in a similar business to the one being operated by the franchisee under the franchise agreement. For example, if the franchisee is operating a janitor business, the non-compete obligation will provide that the franchisee won’t operate, or be employed by, another business that provides janitorial, cleaning, or related services during the term of the franchise agreement and for a period, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months, after the term expires. The answer to this common question is that virtually all franchise agreements contain some sort of non-compete obligation on the franchisee. This is a typical obligation that’s imposed whether the franchisee operates one franchise or is a large operator of many franchises. Of course, non-compete obligations can also be found in many other types of agreements such as employment agreements and those related to the sale of a business. For someone new to franchising, non-compete obligations in a franchise agreement can seem somewhat daunting and one-sided. However, a non-compete obligation is an example of one of several provisions in a franchise agreement that need to be considered carefully and in light of the franchise system as a whole and the nature of franchising generally. Someone who is new to franchising must appreciate that sophisticated franchisors need certain provisions in their franchise agreements to protect the franchise system as a whole and the individual franchisees of that system, even if at first glance those provisions only seem to favour the franchisor. For example, if a franchisee of a particular franchise system starts to compete, through another business, with other franchisees of that franchise system, it’ll hurt both the value of the system as a whole and each individual franchise unit that’s being directly impacted. Given this, a franchisee should be very concerned if a franchise agreement doesn’t contain some sort of non-compete obligation as that means other franchisees of the same system who are signing a similar form of franchise agreement are also not bound by any non-compete obligation. Certainly, most franchisees don’t want to have to be in direct competition with another franchisee in the same system who’s also operating a similar business under another name.

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Non-compete obligations have been the subject of a great deal of scrutiny by the courts through the years. Given that they’re a form of a restraint on trade, courts will only enforce a non-compete obligation contained in a franchise agreement if it’s reasonable in all of the circumstances, and in particular: • Is limited in geographic scope to a well-defined and not overly broad area. For example, non-compete obligations that attempt to restrict the activities of a franchisee throughout all of Canada and the U.S. won’t be enforceable if the franchisor and its other franchisees only operate in one province in Canada; • Have a definitive period of time during which the franchisee can’t be involved in the competitive activities. This period will typically be throughout the term of the franchise agreement and for a period not to exceed 24 months after the end of the term. Attempts to restrict the activities of a franchisee for many years after the franchise relationship has ended will simply not be enforceable; and • Must only relate to activities that are actually competitive to the franchisor and its franchisees. For example, a non-compete obligation in a franchise agreement for a restaurant business that attempts to restrict the ability of the franchisee to be involved in unrelated businesses (such as a hair salon) won’t be enforceable. A well drafted and enforceable non-compete obligation is an essential provision in most franchise agreements. It protects both the interests of the franchisor and each franchisee of that franchise system. Someone who’s new to franchising shouldn’t be surprised or alarmed by the existence of a non-compete obligation in a franchise agreement, but should be mindful that it’s drafted appropriately and is reasonable in the circumstances.

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Blair Rebane Partner and national leader Borden Ladner Gervais LLP BRebane@blg.com

Q A

ASK A FRANCHISE EXPERT

How important is branding when I’m figuring out which franchise to buy? THIS MAY SURPRISE YOU TO HEAR, but branding is almost irrelevant! When most prospective franchisees are thinking about which franchise to buy, far too many people fall in love with a strong brand, in part because it’s popular and in part because they see a steady flow of customers, and they equate this to automatic success. But this isn’t the best approach to adopt. Having a reputable franchise brand behind you is a powerful catalyst for bringing customers in, and for bringing them back, provided that the franchise owner is able to deliver on the brand promise. This is what most prospective franchisees fail to figure out—they rush in without having taken the time to assess to what degree they’ll be able to deliver the brand promise. You see, running a successful business only happens when the function of the business and its owner are strongly aligned. The function of the business is to deliver a quality product or service that meets and/or exceeds customers’ expectations. Meanwhile, the function of the business owner is to manage all of the moving parts of the business efficiently and cost-effectively, in order to put the product or service into customers’ hands. Let’s look at two different types of businesses as an example: 1. Food: •T he function of the business is providing a good quality, tasty meal at a fair price point. •T he function of the business owner is not doing the cooking or food prep! It’s managing a light manufacturing business (ordering raw materials in, manipulating materials through proven processes, and serving a finished product) with perishable products, finicky customers, and some unreliable staff. In other words, you’re operating a business where managing adversity is part of the job! There are many great food franchises, and successful franchisees are those people who’ve had previous management experience, especially in environments where there’s been a lot of adversity. They have the previous skills and intellectual muscle memory to be able to perform the critical roles of the function of the business owner, and this is independent of the brand.

of customers’ living space (kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, painting, etc.) • The function of the business owner is not doing the installation work! The owner performs marketing and sales functions, orders inventory and manages projects, and manages a small team of technicians who perform the actual installation work at customer’s homes. So, how do you figure out the functions of the owner that you’re best suited to? Instead of allowing yourself to be “pulled towards” a popular brand or category because of the perceived strength of the opportunity, start your search by first doing an in-depth skills and experience inventory. Look backwards in your career and identify the following (getting as granular as you can in your answers): • What skills have you developed, that you’re really good at and want to keep on doing in your new business? • W hat types of work are you not good at, or don’t like to do? • W hat types of work have you done a lot of, but have outgrown or need a change from? • W hat types of work and team environments have you previously flourished in? • W hat types of work and team environments have you previously struggled in? What about the criteria that the business needs to satisfy for you? Of the 12 to 14 criteria that you should be considering, the “brand” is only a factor in a few of them. As mentioned, the brand is almost irrelevant in the early stage of your search for the right business. Develop your “must have” criteria as well as your “must not have” criteria: • How many hours do you want to work per week? What is the structure of those hours? • How far are you prepared to commute? • W hat type of customers do you want, and how will you get them? • How big a team of people are you comfortable leading? (continued on page 101) Gary Prenevost President FranNet of Southern Ontario and Eastern Canada gprenevost@frannet.com

2. Home improvement: • The function of the business is upgrading some aspect

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FRANCHISE TUTORIAL

TUTORIAL 3: THE FUNDAMENTALS OF FRANCHISING

INTRO TO DEPOSITS DEPOSITS ARE OFTEN COLLECTED by franchisors prior to entering into a full franchise agreement. They’re typically a percentage of the initial franchise fee or the full initial franchise fee amount. When entering into a franchise agreement, the deposit is credited towards the amounts owing. Should the potential franchisee choose not to move forward with the agreement, the deposit may or may not be refunded. There’s usually a Deposit Agreement that’s entered into at the same time the deposit is made. This agreement defines how and if the deposit will be returned, provides timelines, and typically addresses the issue of confidentiality. Deposits are paid prior to entering into a franchise agreement. The main purpose of the deposit, from the franchisor perspective, is to differentiate the serious candidates from casual enquiries to the franchise opportunity. Franchisors often deal with hundreds of enquiries every month, and simply cannot begin to work at finding locations or assist with bank financing with everyone. A deposit allows franchisors to properly allocate its resources and ensure that there’s some compensation in the event that the prospective franchisee doesn’t move forward. The franchisor is also concerned with confidentiality. The deposit agreement will often have clauses stating that the provided proprietary information will be kept confidential and that appropriate materials will be returned. From a potential franchisee perspective, deposits will often permit one to put a territory on hold so that the potential franchisee can do their due diligence, arrange financing, have documents reviewed by a lawyer, or find an approved location. By paying a deposit, potential franchisees demonstrate their seriousness in the franchise opportunity and can ensure that resources are being prudently spent. The franchisor will normally work with potential franchisees to remove conditions on the deposit agreement, while reserving the desired territory for a limited period of time. Deposits can be refundable, partially refundable or non-refundable, depending upon the circumstances and primarily how much time the franchisor spends working with the potential franchisee. The franchisor wants to be compensated for its efforts in, for example, reviewing locations or assisting potential franchisees with their

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business plan. Franchisors should provide deposit agreements that clarify how and if the deposit is refunded. If the franchisor does not provide a deposit agreement, potential franchisees should have one created to avoid dependency on verbal discussions. It’s important that deposit agreements are read carefully and are reviewed by a lawyer so that there’s clarity as to the terms and conditions. Provincial legislation has put in place certain laws to protect the public regarding franchise deposits. In Ontario, franchisors cannot require potential franchisees to pay a deposit or sign a deposit agreement until the potential franchisee has had 14 days to review the Disclosure Document. In Alberta, the franchisor can collect a deposit prior to the review of the document and entering a franchise agreement, but such deposits must be refundable and can only be for a maximum of 20 per cent of the initial franchise fee. The deposit agreement must also be limited to the issues of confidentiality, location, and non-use of the franchisor’s information. Deposits are a great way for potential franchisees to show that they’re serious about the franchise opportunity, and provide some initial compensation to the franchisor for preliminary work and to reserve a territory for potential franchisees. The deposit agreement protects the interests of both the potential franchisee and the franchisor.

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FRANCHISE TUTORIAL

TUTORIAL 4: THE FUNDAMENTALS OF FRANCHISING

INTRO TO DISCLOSURE DOCUMENTS DISCLOSURE DOCUMENTS are a summary of information on the franchisor, its executive team, and its franchise agreements. The document is provided to potential franchisees so that they may make a more fully informed business decision. In Canada, franchise systems are required by law to provide a Disclosure Document to prospective franchisees in provinces where franchise legislation is enacted. (Learn more about provincial franchise legislation at www.cfa.ca/ our-services/advocacy/franchise-legislation). Franchise systems are only legally required to provide Disclosure Documents in these six provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. However, many franchisors provide a disclosure document across all of Canada to assist prospective franchisees in learning about the franchise opportunity. Franchisors have different application processes for franchisees, but will typically provide the Disclosure Document to prospective franchisees once they’ve been qualified as a potential franchisee and have shown serious interest in the franchise opportunity. It isn’t a public document, and is usually only available to serious investors. When a franchise system fails to provide proper disclosure within the provinces where disclosure is legally required, potential franchisees may have the ability to rescind the franchise agreement for up to two years from when the franchise was granted. In the event that the agreement is rescinded, the law may also provide that potential franchisees will be compensated for all losses incurred in acquiring, setting up, and operating the franchise business. Be sure to speak with your franchise lawyer for details. The Disclosure Document must meet legislative requirements and disclose all material facts regarding the franchise opportunity and the franchise system’s history. There are required statements pertaining to risk and seeking legal and financial advice. To learn specifically what legislative requirements are in place, you can visit the Advocacy section of the Canadian Franchise Association website at www.cfa.ca/our-services/advocacy.

A typical Table of Contents in a Disclosure Document might read as follows: • Corporate name of the franchisor • Nature of the business • Business experience of the directors and officers of the franchisor • Previous convictions, civil actions, administrative proceedings, bankruptcies or liabilities of the franchisor, its directors, officers, and associates • Initial investment required • Other fees payable under the franchise agreement • Estimate on working capital, annual operating costs • Earning projections • Training provided, with outline of initial training program • Financing arrangements • Assistance provided by the franchisor • Franchisee obligations • Marketing fund: use of, past spending, projected spending • Restrictions on what and to whom franchisees may sell • Special licences required • Volume rebates and discount policies • Obligations to participate in the actual operations of the franchised business • Trademarks patents, and copyright information • Territories available • Term, renewal, termination, and transfer of the franchise • Policies regarding dispute resolution In addition, the document will typically have the following in attachments: • List of existing franchisees with contact information • List of terminated, not renewed or cancelled franchisees with contact information • Financial Statements of the franchisor • Franchise Agreement • Table of Contents of the Operations Manual • Certificate of Franchisor signed by an officer of the company stating that all material facts have been provided and that the information provided is true • Receipt to be signed and dated by the franchisee acknowledging receipt of the Disclosure Document (continued on page 93)

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I N T E R N AT I O N A L F R A N C H I S E A SS O C I AT I O N E V E N T L I N E U P 2 0 2 1

Refocus your franchise’s future, find opportunity for growth and establish lasting connections by attending IFA’s revamped events.

F R A N C H I S E A C T I O N N E T WO R K ( FA N ) V I R T U A L A DVO C A C Y D AY September 22, 2021 | VIRTUAL F R A N C H I S E O P E R AT I O N S CO N F E R E N C E October 4-5, 2021 | CHICAGO, IL

For more details about the International Franchise Association’s unparalleled and highly-regarded conferences, visit

franchise.org/events.

E M E R G I N G F R A N C H I S O R CO N F E R E N C E November 16-18, 2021 | NEW ORLEANS, LA Mark Your 2022 Calendar! I FA ’ S A N N U A L CO N V E N T I O N is back in person for 2022. We hope you can join us February 26-March 1 in San Diego, CA!

FRANCHISE TUTORIAL (continued from page 91) The disclosure document is only a summary of important information. Potential franchisees should study the franchise agreement in detail, as this is ultimately the document they’ll be signing. Legal and financial advisors, along with the franchisor, will all assist potential franchisees in reviewing the documents and in clarifying the

Watch the Franchise Tutorials video on Deposits

obligations as a franchisee of the franchise system. Lawyers with franchising experience can review the Disclosure Document so that he or she can ensure that it meets all legal requirements. Potential franchisees should also seek advice from an accountant and the bank to ensure that they can financially afford the investment. The bank may also request a copy of the Disclosure Document so that they can make an informed lending decision.

Watch the Franchise Tutorials video on Disclosure Documents

STUDY QUESTIONS TUTORIAL 3

TUTORIAL 4

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

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

2. Deposit Agreements: a) d efine payments made to financial institutions for financing start-up costs involved in franchising. b) define how and if the deposit will be returned, provide timelines, and typically address the issue of confidentiality. c) define the conditions for paying the franchise fee in monthly installments. 3. There are no provincial legislations regulating franchise deposits. True or False? a) True b) False

2. Franchise systems are currently required by law to provide Disclosure Documents in: a) Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario. b) Alberta, Ontario, and Nova Scotia. c) Alberta, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island. 3. The Disclosure Document will typically include a list of existing franchisees, with contact information. True or False? a) True b) False 4. The Disclosure Document is only a summary of important information, and isn’t a legal agreement. True or False? a) True b) False

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

Answer Key: 1) a 2) c 3) a 4) a Franchise Canada September | October 2021 93

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

you, contact Judy Rost, Partner and rost@ahbl.ca or 604 484 1726. MARKETPLACE

Alexander Holburn Beaudin + Lang LLP is a leading Vancouver-based Canadian law firm providing a wide range of litigation/dispute resolution and business law services. Our Franchise Practice assists clients in all facets of Canadian franchise law. We act primarily for franchisors and master franchisees. Our services span the spectrum from initial structuring of new or expanding franchise systems, to ongoing operational advice and litigation and dispute resolution and advocacy where required. To learn how we can help you, contact Judy Rost, Partner and Senior Franchise Litigator, at jrost@ahbl.ca or 604 484 1726. www.ahbl.ca

Conveniently Smart, Conveniently Simple. Automation and self-service are reshaping the grocery shopping experience. Aisle 24 franchises offer you the opportunity to harness these powerful trends to deliver an innovative twist on the corner store. Aisle 24 stores – cashier-less, small footprint grocery markets catering to last-minute shopping – serve the booming Canadian residential property market. We provide condos, apartments, townhouse complexes, campus residences, and other shared living communities with a high-value amenity for tenants. Franchise units in Canada: 25 Corporate units in Canada: 5 In business since: 2016 Franchising since: 2019 Franchise fee: $25K-$30K Start-up capital required: $60K-$80K Investment required: $120-$260K Training: Yes Available territories: BC, AB, SK, MB, ON, NB, PE, NS, NL, QC CFA member since: 2019 Phone: (647) 932-1037 Web: www.aisle24.ca Email: franchising@aisle24.ca Contact: John Douang, Co-Founder & CEO

Helping you do more business is our business. When you accept American Express® Cards, you gain access to higher spending customers and a greater number of business clients. We also help franchisees grow through business solutions that include cash flow management, providing working capital opportunities and lucrative rewards. Contact us to find out more about how we can help your Franchise grow. CFA Member Since: 2017 Web: www.amex.ca/canadianfranchiseassociation Email: franchisesolutions@aexp.com

Big Frog is more than a business; it’s a lifestyle! Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More® is a franchise concept specializing in custom decorated apparel with more than 88 locations opened or in development in the U.S. Big Frog’s goal is to become the world leader in the $20 billion garment decorating industry. Using high tech direct-to-garment printing, it is the only chain or franchise of its kind. Big Frog has a strong history of success and wonderful validation from its franchise owners. This exciting opportunity is now available in Canada! Franchise Units in the US: 88 Franchise Units in Canada: 1 Business Since: 2006 Franchising Since: 2008 Franchise Fee: $49.5K Investment: $190K+ Training: Training manuals, online courses, 1 week in Florida, 1 week onsite at your store Available territories: AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NS, NT, NU, ON, SK, YT, US Address: 13083 – 156 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5V 0A2 Phone: (587) 525-8000 Web: bigfrog.ca Email: info@bigfrog.ca Contact: Tom Suggitt, CEO

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MARKETPLACE

CEFA early learning is looking for franchise partners to open early learning private schools for children under 5 in the provinces of Alberta and Ontario. If you love being around children and families, know the value of education and early learning, and believe in developing children academically, socially, and physically, owning a CEFA school may be the right opportunity for you. CEFA offers something no one else can – an award-winning curriculum, and an impressive 20 year track record as one of the largest and most established Education Franchise Company in Canada. Franchise Fee: $70K Startup Capital Required: $300K+ Investment Required: $850K-$2M Available Territories: United States, All of Canada Training: Provided Franchise Units Canada: 27 In Business Since: 1998 Franchising Since: 2003 CFA Member Since: 2011 Learn the Top 10 Reasons for Owning a CEFA Franchise at www.cefafranchise.com or email franchising@cefa.ca for more information.

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. A DQ® Treat location can be in major shopping malls or as a free-standing unit. The total investment for a retail store is between $300,000 $500,000 and up to $800,000 for a free-standing unit. 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

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 2011–2021 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

Shuttle Services Driverseat is an award-winning system, specializing 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, for wine / craft brewery tours, medical transort and weddings in mid-sized commercial shuttle vehicles. • Total capital required - $42K to $68K • $20K – $30K franchise fee (include in the total capital required) • $6 billion industry • Home based • No need for inventory • No capital real estate leases • Comprehensive training program • Award winning support • Innovative technology platform • Canadian owned and operated

Contact

• 1-855-DRIVE-90 • franchise@driverseatinc.com • www.driverseatinc.com

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MARKETPLACE

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.

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!

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.

Prime territories still available.

Welcome to Canada’s largest seafood restaurant brand. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Joey’s was started in 1985 by legendary seafood lover Joe Klassen whose vision was to create a friendly, just around the corner type of seafood restaurant. Franchising began in 1992 and now has 45 franchise locations and growing. Joey’s newest brand, Joey’s Fish Shack has proven to be the perfect evolution for Joey’s.

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.

Franchise Fee: $25,000.00 Investment Required: $167K - $340K In Business Since: 1985 Available Territories: BC, AB, SK, MB, ON, NB, NS, PE, NL Want to open a Joey’s restaurant? Contact us to learn how 250.862.6283 Dave@joeys.ca 1-800-661-2123 joeysfranchisegroup.ca

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Contact Hickory Dickory Decks today. www.decks.ca/franchise 1-800-263-4774

www.cfa.ca | www.FranchiseCanada.Online

MARKETPLACE

NOVUS Glass is part of Fix Network, Canada’s largest automotive aftermarket services network with over 75 points of service nationwide. As a longstanding trusted brand, NOVUS customers have come to rely on the experts for their windshield repair and replacement needs. With their Repair First, Replace When Necessary ® commitment, NOVUS Glass can repair more windshields with greater optical clarity and structural integrity than any other system in the industry and guarantees repairs for the life of the windshield. With over 1,300 points of service worldwide, NOVUS continues to lead the industry in glass repair and replacement. To learn more about our franchising opportunities, write to info@novusglass.com ProColor Collision joined Fix Network, a global leader in the automotive aftermarket services sector, in 2019. Its mission is to offer an outstanding customer experience across its vast network of state-of-the-art facilities. ProColor Collision was launched in 2001 with the goal to offer quality repairs, meticulous customer service and a relationship of trust with insurance companies. With 175 locations in Canada and growing, ProColor Collision is fast becoming the collision repair network of choice.

The Pizza Nova story began in 1963 when a young Italian family opened the very first Pizza Nova restaurant. Still family-owned, we have helped hundreds of families open and operate our 145+ locations across Ontario and specialize in hand-tossed, Artisan-style pizzas that are complemented by an extensive menu of proven favourites. Our 58+ years of success continues as a direct result of our uncompromising commitment to providing quality ingredients and product innovation. In 2015 we became the first Canadian pizza company to introduce pepperoni sourced from beef and pork raised without the use of antibiotics or added hormones. We have since expanded our ‘Raised Without Antibiotics’ profile to include bacon, chicken wings, chicken pollini, grilled chicken, and smoked ham. In 2021, we introduced the first pea protein-based pepperoni as a plant-based alternative to our diverse menu, thus further expanding our reach to include vegans, vegetarians and flexitarians alike. We provide comprehensive training, easy ordering from our HAACP approved commissary, location identification & design, operations support and innovative marketing initiatives that bring customers through your door. Pizza Nova is the Official Pizza of the Toronto Blue Jays™, Toronto International Film Festival, and the CNE. For more information on Franchise Opportunities please contact Meraj Jamal, Franchise Development Manager Phone: 416-439-0051 ext. 1016 Email: meraj@pizzanova.com

To learn more about franchise opportunities, write to franchise@procolorcolliion.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

Score Pizza provides a high quality, customized, fast casual dining experience that is craveable. Our menu includes made to order stone fired pizzas, fresh salads, fired sandwiches, along with a selection of beer, wine and other craft beverages. Our restaurants are designed to deliver a Canadian heritage décor which provides a warm, comfortable, place to hang out with friends and family, watch the game and enjoy an affordable meal. We also can deliver your custom pizzas, have extensive vegan and gluten free options, along with locally sourced fresh ingredients. Franchise Fee: $45,000 In Business Since: 2016 Available Territories: All of Canada CFA Member Since: 2021 Please visit ScorePizza.ca for more information.

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 97

MARKETPLACE

All Your Favourites, All Day Long A Canadian Tradition for Canadian Entrepreneurs

Welcome to the Home of the Original Famous All Day Breakfast™ Canada’s leading full-service breakfast restaurant franchise

We opened our first location in Calgary, AB back in 1960. Today, in communities both big and small, our restaurant family spans the country from St. John’s, NFLD to Vancouver Island, BC.

Fresh is Tastiest™ is our philosophy at Sunset Grill. Our guests are loyal to our brand and love our food because we use fresh ingredients and healthy cooking methods. Our food is always freshly prepared and cooked to order.

Our successes have come from our solid operating principles, dedicated Franchisees and our proudly Canadian menu featuring traditional favourites along side great new tastes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

For over 30 years our owner-operators have enjoyed a healthy work-life balance with our one-shift operation model. High profit margins (up to 20 per cent on net sales) lead to excellent returns and the building of a saleable asset.

We have opportunities available to grow and are ready to provide you what you need in: Site Selection & Design, Lease Negotiations, Construction Administration, Training & Operations Support , Menu Development, and Marketing.

We set our franchisees up for success with our award-winning formula. Specialization in the marketplace, streamlined operations, comprehensive training, ongoing professional guidance and low staff turnover are just a few of the benefits you’ll enjoy when you become a part of the Sunset Grill family.

Investment range for conversions: $100,000 - $300,000 Investment range for new locations: $500,000 - $800,000 Minimum $150,000 unencumbered capital required For more information on a Smitty’s opportunity, please contact one of our franchise specialists at: 1-800-927-0366, info@smittys.ca or visit smittys.ca/franchise. Proudly serving breakfast, lunch and dinner to Canadians coast to coast since 1960!

Canada’s #1 breakfast brand with 85 locations and growing. Join the breakfast revolution today and let us find you a home at Sunset Grill. Visit us: www.sunsetgrill.ca Email us: franchising@sunsetgrill.ca Call us: (905) 286-5833 Sunset Grill. “A business that works for you.”

LET’S TALK SUCCESS! Excellent Franchise Opportunities available within Ontario: New and Existing Locations Available. Symposium’s award-winning concept is 23 locations strong and the go-to dining favourite in local communities. Here’s why: Winner - CFA Franchisees’ Choice 11 Consecutive Years 2011-2021 Winner - Franchise of the Year – 2017 AND 2018 Winner - CFA Gold Award of Excellence 5 consecutive years • Award Winning Concept. Including awards for: Best Breakfast, Best Atmosphere, Best Business Lunch, Best Patio, Business of the Year and more. • Turnkey Operation - $615 – 655,000 • One of a kind trademark decor, quality finishes & furnishings • Specializing in casual, upscale dining; with an evolving, on trend, responsive menu The most extensive training program in the Canadian Restaurant Industry. • Three months training for all aspects of the business. Including: wait/counter staff, kitchen, administration, management and finance • Three months on site store opening support. Ready for Success? Contact Ramin Mirzadegan raminmirzadegan@gmail.com or info@symposiumcafe.com; YOU’RE READY TO BE YOUR OWN BOSS – WE’RE READY TO MAKE THAT HAPPEN

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 350 franchise locations across Canada (and continuing to grow), we have a proven track record of success! As a franchisee you will enjoy an established system to get your business started off on the right track; in-depth training programs and ongoing support to make sure you continue to succeed; and an internationally recognized and award-winning brand to help you build instant credibility in your community. The UPS Store is there at every stage of your franchising journey. Proud to have been designated as an Essential Business at a time Canadians needed us most. Visit us at theupsstore.ca. We Print, Ship & More! Locations, North America: Over 5000 Locations in Canada: Over 350 Minimum cash investment: $100,000 Total cash investment: $174,000 to $198,500 plus working capital. For more information on The UPS Store opportunity, call 1-800-661-6232 or visit www.theupsstore.ca.

GRAND PRIZE

2017

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MARKETPLACE

Since 1964, Tim Hortons has captured the hearts and taste buds of Canadians. Tim Hortons is Canada’s largest restaurant chain operating in the quick service industry serving over 5 million cups of coffee every day with 80% of Canadians visiting one of nearly 4,000 Tim Hortons in Canada at least once a month. More than a coffee and bake shop, Tim Hortons is part of the Canadian fabric and guests can enjoy hot and cold specialty beverages – including lattes, cappuccinos and espressos, teas and our famous Iced Capps™ – alongside delicious breakfast, sandwiches, wraps, soups and more. Tim Hortons has more than 4,800 restaurants in Canada, the United States and around the world. Franchise Fee: $50K Advertising fee: 4% of gross sales for the term of the license (monthly) Royalty fee: 6% of gross sales for the term of the license (weekly) In Business Since: 1964 www.timhortons.ca

Wild Wing is the largest Chicken Wing Chain in Canada, operating since 1999. Wild Wing specializes in Chicken Wings in 101 unique and proprietary flavours. Wild Wing is the largest Chicken Wing chain based on store count, selling approximately 25 million Chicken Wings each year. Enter a Wild Wing and you will experience a full-service casual dining, western themed restaurant. Currently Wild Wing has 87 Franchised locations, 1 Corporate store and 12 Canlan Ice Sports Licenses Wild Wing locations, for a grand total of 100 locations. Come on board and get Wild! Franchise Fee: $35,000 Startup Capital Required: $150,000 Investment Required: $200,000-$600,000 Available Territories: All of Canada Training: Yes – 3 weeks Franchised Units Canada: 87 Corporate Units Canada:1 In Business Since: 1999 Franchising Since: 2003 CFA Member Since: 2015 Franchise Opportunities Available Across Canada franchising@wildwingrestaurants.com

Are you franchising in Canada?

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

Lead Generation

Education

Networking

Advocacy

Resources

Discover all the benefits of CFA membership!

Contact Lou Gervasi at 800-665-4232 ext. 243 or lgervasi@cfa.ca Learn more at cfa.ca/join

Franchise Canada September | October 2021 99

WHAT’S NEXT

DON’T MISS OUR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE! The Excellence in Franchising Issue Each year, the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) recognizes member brands that have excelled in the franchising community. The past year and a half has certainly put most franchise systems to the test for their ability to persevere and recover, as most businesses across Canada have experienced temporary closures and modifications from the COVID-19 pandemic. That makes these esteemed awards even more deserved for franchise systems and franchisees that have proven to be adaptable, innovative, and able to step up as great leaders in difficult times. The November/December 2021 issue of Franchise Canada congratulates the Franchisees of the Year, awarded in multiple categories for their excellence in franchising. Throughout the rest of the issue, we’ll provide a full list of the 2021 CFA award winners, and introduce you to the newest members that have joined the CFA this past year. This issue includes a special franchise focus on innovations in franchising, spotlighting brands that have adapted and innovated their businesses to respond to changes from the pandemic and beyond. We also dive into industry categories including real estate franchises and mobile and home-based franchises—exceptional opportunities for prospective franchisees as we adapt to the “new normal” of our lives post-COVID-19. Check out the November/December issue for this content and more, including franchisee success stories and expert advice from franchise professionals!

WATCH OUT FOR THESE EXCITING FEATURES IN OUR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE:* FRANCHISEES OF THE YEAR: Look forward to meeting six franchisees from successful brands across the country, through insightful and educational interviews spotlighting their franchising accolades. Franchisees of the Year categories are for Gold, Traditional; Gold Nontraditional; Silver, Traditional; Silver, Non-traditional; Bronze, Traditional; and Bronze, Non-traditional.

REAL ESTATE FRANCHISES: As the Canadian population continues to grow, many will be turning to their local real estate franchises for assistance with finding a new home to raise their family in. These franchises are in an excellent position for growth and offer exceptional opportunities for franchise prospects with a passion for real estate and for contributing to communities across the country.

FULL LIST OF 2021 CFA AWARD WINNERS: Explore the full list of winners in the 2021 CFA awards program who are recognized for their franchising excellence in categories including Franchisees’ Choice Designation, Awards of Excellence, Recognition Awards, Membership Milestones, and more.

MOBILE AND HOME-BASED FRANCHISES: For many employees across Canada, the past year and a half has been spent working remotely from home to protect themselves during the pandemic. This comfortable and convenient lifestyle may be a favourable option for some, making franchises that can be operated from a home office or vehicle a key choice for prospective franchisees.

NEW CFA MEMBERS ACROSS CANADA: Each year, the CFA adds new members to its community of franchise brands across the country. You can look forward to meeting all of the new franchise systems that joined the CFA as members in 2021, and exploring the unique franchising opportunities they offer for budding entrepreneurs.

PLUS, A SPECIAL FRANCHISE FOCUS ON INNOVATIONS IN FRANCHISING! 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 • Franchise Fun *Editorial subject to change

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ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Alexander Holburn.......................................... 58 www.ahbl.ca

Good Earth Coffeehouse......................... 48 goodearthcoffeehouse.com/franchising

Pizza Pizza................................................................ 45 www.pizzapizza.ca/franchising

Aisle24........................................................................... 44 www.aisle24.ca

Hickory Dickory Decks...................... 64-65 www.decks.ca/franchise

Score Pizza. . ..................................................... 16-18 www.ScorePizza.ca

American Express.. ............................................... 3 www.americanexpress.ca/ canadianfranchiseassociation

International Franchise Association .............................................................................................. 92 www.franchise.org

Smitty’s. . ....................................................................... 32 www.smittys.ca/franchise

Big Frog Canada.. ............................................... 15 www.bigfrog.ca

Joey’s Restaurant............................................. 27 www.joeysfranchisegroup.ca

CEFA Early Learning.......................................... 7 www.cefafranchise.com

M&M Food Market.. ................................................. .................................................. Inside Front Cover www.mmfoodmarket.com/en/ new-shopping-experience

COBS Bread............................................................. 14 COBSBread.com/franchise Dairy Queen Canada.. .................................... 13 www.dq.ca Driverseat................................................................... 11 www.driverseatinc.com/franchise

Sunset Grill................................................................ 33 www.sunsetgrill.ca Symposium Café................................................ 35 www.symposiumcafe.com/contact The UPS Store............................................................9 www.theupsstore.ca

NOVUS Glass................................................ 66-67 www.novusfranchising.ca

Tim Horton’s........................................................... 39 www.timhortons.com

Pizza Nova................................................................. 47 www.pizzanova.com

Wild Wing................................................................... 37 wildwingrestaurants.com

ASK A FRANCHISE EXPERT (continued from page 89) • How much money do you need to earn? Once you’ve identified your core skills and desires that you want to leverage, then you’ll be able to start looking at every brand differently—you’ll quickly be able to assess to what degree you’ll be able to perform the functions of the business owner in order to deliver the brand promise. If it’s a great brand, but you’re not suited to it, then move on to other potential options!

A final word on the importance of a brand: it isn’t unusual for a brand to take 10 to 12 years before it’s readily recognized, so the strength of a franchisor’s business systems, processes, training, and support is far more important than their brand. After all, it’s through the steady application and refinement of processes that great brands are built, so look for franchisors with strong systems and support that are aligned to your core skills and criteria, because that’s what drives true success in franchise ownership!

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GIVING BACK

The Recipe for Giving Back

Recipe Unlimited donates food to local communities amid restaurant shutdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic BY STEFANIE UCCI ONE OF RECIPE UNLIMITED’S core values is to “do the right thing,” and during the COVID-19 pandemic, franchisees stepped up to do the right thing in their communities. The opening and closing of restaurants in the Recipe Unlimited family of brands posed unexpected challenges for franchise owners. Fortunately, Recipe made the quick decision to donate food from its restaurants to local communities, both ensuring that no food went to waste while dining rooms were closed and as a way to express generosity and community spirit. Julie Denton, chief people officer at Recipe Unlimited, points to Swiss Chalet as an example of one of the many restaurants that donated meals to those in need. She says that several brands did food drives throughout their communities, “working closely with long term care facilities to make sure they had adequate food supply when they had staff shortages.” “Our franchisees took it upon themselves to do different things [throughout the pandemic],” explains Denton. “They did food drives, food packages, and meals to frontline and essential workers. In particular, we saw nurses, firemen, police—anyone who was on the frontline was supported by individual franchisees.” Denton identifies Harvey’s frontline worker program, which provided a discount for frontline workers and a “Harvey’s RV” that drove across the country and donated more than 100,000 burgers to local communities. At the time of writing, Harvey’s also has a promotion called Canada’s Best Shot, which

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encourages Canadians to get vaccinated by offering one free burger with proof of vaccination. As COVID-19 restrictions lift, Recipe is shifting focus from pandemicrelated donations to other important charitable causes. Denton explains that Harvey’s has also recently partnered with Tree Canada to donate and raised enough funds to plant more than 34,000 trees this year. “We see our responsibility as not just food and food security, but also taking care of the environment in the communities we serve our customers in.” Another brand under the Recipe Unlimited umbrella is St-Hubert, best known for its rotisserie chicken, with headquarters in Quebec. The brand’s charitable efforts include giving $7 million to at least 450 causes since 2012. Denton says the brand hasn’t slowed down its efforts during the pandemic and have honoured their charitable commitments to organizations such as the “Autiste et majeur” foundation, Food Banks of Quebec, and Make-a-Wish. StHubert also donated $100,000 to the Food Banks of Quebec at the beginning of the pandemic, in addition to its annual pledge, offering support to families affected by COVID-19. Outside of its support during the pandemic, Recipe Unlimited gives back to programs such as Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada and DAREarts, by participating in a culinary leadership program where chefs volunteer their time. Recipe provides meal kit packing and gets employees involved in programs. “We do look [forward] to coming out on the other side of COVID19 and being able to do those initiatives where our employees

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are actively involved and not just focused on donations. It’s about employees giving back in terms of their time and efforts because we do believe that builds greater engagement and affinity,” explains Denton. “Ideally, we’d be able to cultivate culinary leaders from that program that eventually come and work in our restaurants.” For its employees in Ontario, Recipe Unlimited provided salary continuance and dining allowance to those who had a much longer restaurant closure. “We continued to pay them even though our restaurants were closed since the last lockdown,” says Denton. “We paid them all the way through because we knew it was the right thing to do.” She explains that Recipe committed $1,590,000 to keep corporate hourly employees paid, and the program wrapped up on June 12, 2021 when restaurant patios were able to reopen in Ontario. “I think restaurants really are all about community, so when we think about the importance and the foundation of coming together and celebrating milestones in people’s lives, we think about restaurants. That’s where you’ve had some of your fondest memories with family and friends and that’s where you go to celebrate,” says Denton. “We’re excited to get back to doing more in person, being more visible as opposed to just the donations. That’s a big thing for us.”

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