March 16, 2026
DATE: April 22, 2026
TIME: 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET
The franchise world is evolving fast — and so are the legal standards that determine when franchisors and franchisees can be treated as related or joint employers. In this lively, fast-paced webinar, we will break down what’s changed, why it matters, and how franchise systems can stay ahead of the curve.
What to Expect:
1. The Latest Word on Related Employer Decisions in Canada
We’ll kick things off with a crisp tour of the most important Canadian decisions shaping when entities may be found to share employer responsibilities. Expect practical, real-world insights that franchise leaders can apply immediately to reduce risk and maintain structural integrity.
2. A Cross-Border Curveball: The NLRB’s Return to the 2020 Rule
The U.S. National Labor Relations Board just made waves — and even Canadian systems can feel the ripple. On Feb. 26, 2026, the NLRB formally withdrew its broader 2023 joint-employer standard and reinstated the narrower 2020 rule, which requires “substantial direct and immediate control” before entities can be deemed joint employers. We will discuss this decision, what it means, and its implications for franchisees who operate both in Canada and across the border.
3. Looking Around the Corner
The legal landscape isn’t standing still. Ongoing U.S. litigation could push the pendulum again, including challenges to the reinstated 2020 rule that may revive a broader, more labor-friendly standard. We’ll discuss what’s coming, what’s uncertain, and what proactive steps franchisors and franchisees can take to reduce the risk of a related or joint employer finding.
SPEAKERS:
Matthew P. Badrov is a highly skilled and versatile lawyer with experience in a broad range of employment, labour and human resources matters. Matthew has particular skill in traditional labour matters, which include applications for certification, collective bargaining, grievance arbitration and Ontario Labour Relations Board proceedings. Matthew also regularly assists employers with wrongful dismissal, constructive dismissal and human rights litigation.
Cameron Miller represents, advises, and advocates for employers on an extensive range of labour and employment issues, with a particular focus on: Collective bargaining and agreement administration, Grievance arbitration, Human rights and accommodation, Wrongful and constructive dismissal litigation, Responding to union organizing and applications for certification. Cameron represents both provincially and federally regulated employers. He has experience in proceedings before tribunals, labour boards, arbitrators, adjudicators, and courts including the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, the Ontario Labour Relations Board, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, and the Canada Industrial Relations Board.
Learn and Grow webinars are eligible for 50 CFE participation credits each!
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