Franchise Awareness Day 2023

This year, Franchise Awareness Day took place on May 31, 2023, at Queen’s Park, Toronto, Ontario.

This blog provides a glimpse into the day’s highlights, including meetings with government officials, impactful discussions, and the overall mission to drive positive change within the franchise landscape.

Raising the Voice of Franchising:

Franchise Awareness Day is an annual event organized by the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA).

It is not just another event on the calendar; it is a strategic opportunity for the CFA to engage with Members of the Provincial Parliament (MPPs) and government officials on crucial issues affecting franchising in Canada. The day serves as a rallying cry to address concerns related to common employer policies, fair treatment under environmental legislation, access to labor, minimum wage, taxes, and the Employment Standards Act.

You can dive in deeper to know more about CFA’s lobbying Priorities:

Breakfast Networking and Honorable Encounters:

The day kicked off with a dynamic breakfast hosted by CFA, graciously sponsored by The UPS Store Canada. It became the backdrop for networking opportunities and facilitated introductions between franchise industry representatives and esteemed guests. One of the distinguished attendees was Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade, Vic Fedeli, who graced the occasion. The energy was palpable as connections were forged and the groundwork for fruitful conversations was laid.

Impactful Meetings with MPPs:

Throughout the day, the CFA team navigated a whirlwind of meetings with a total of twenty-seven Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs). These critical engagements were meticulously planned to convey the value of franchising while shedding light on the pressing issues faced by the industry. Notable attendees included MPPs from various regions, directors of policy from key ministries, and senior advisors from government departments.

Each meeting was an opportunity to educate and influence decision-makers, fostering a deeper understanding of the positive impact franchising can have on the economy and local communities.

Here are the Members we’ve met:

  • Vic Fedeli | Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation, and Trade of Ontario
  • Nolan Quinn | MPP Stormont – Dundas – South Glengarry, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Ernie Hardeman | MPP Oxford, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Ryan Puviraj | Director of Policy – Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
  • Mathew Varsava | Director of Policy – Ontario Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility
  • Philip Power | Senior Advisor, Stakeholder Relations – Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills
  • Stacies Korjenevitch | Executive Assistant – Minister of Infrastructure
  • Anthony Leardi | MPP Essex, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Effie J. Triantafilopoulos | MPP Oakville North – Burlington, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Brian Saunderson | MPP Simcoe – Grey, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Rudy Cuzzetto | MPP Mississauga – Lakeshore, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Deepak Arnand | MPP Mississauga – Malton, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Brian Riddell | MPP Cambridge, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Natalia Kusendova-Bashta | MPP Mississauga Centre, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Laurie Scott | MPP Haliburton – Kawartha Lakes – Brock, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Patrice Barnes | MPP Ajax, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Hon. Ted Arnott | MPP Wellington – Halton Hills, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Aris Babikian | MPP Scarborough – Agincourt, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Kevin Holland | MPP Thunder Bay – Atikokan, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Dave Smith | MPP Peterborough – Kawartha, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Hon. Charmaine A. Williams | MPP Brampton Centre, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Hon. Kaleed Rasheed | MPP Mississauga East – Cooksvillle, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Rick Byers | MPP Bruce – Grey – Owen Sound, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Hon. Doug. Downey | MPP Barrie – Springwater – Oro – Medonte, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • John Fraser | MPP Ottawa South, Ontario Liberal Party
  • Hon. Parm Gill | MPP Milton, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
  • Hon. Graydon Smith | MPP Parry Sound – Muskoka, Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario

The Power of Advocacy & Supporting the Movement:

Franchise Awareness Day yielded significant takeaways. The event highlighted the collective power of franchisors, franchisees, and industry supporters coming together under the CFA’s advocacy umbrella. By raising awareness, engaging in meaningful discussions, and sharing success stories, the event played a pivotal role in driving positive change for the entire franchise ecosystem. Franchise Awareness Day serves as a reminder that every individual within the industry has the power to contribute and make a difference.

It is a catalyst for progress, but the momentum does not end there. You too can play a role in propelling the industry forward. By supporting the CFA’s advocacy work through donations, you actively contribute to a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the interests of franchisors, franchisees, and the entire franchise community. Together, we can continue to advocate for a thriving and dynamic franchising landscape in Canada.

Conclusion

Franchise Awareness Day 2023 was a resounding success, showcasing the unwavering commitment of the Canadian Franchise Association to champion the cause of franchising. Through impactful meetings, insightful discussions, and networking opportunities, the event underscored the power of collaboration and the potential for positive change. Franchise Awareness Day was a resounding call to action, reminding us that by working together, we can shape a future where franchising continues to thrive, creating opportunities and prosperity for all.

SUPPORT CFA’S ADVOCACY WORK