Elite Franchise celebrates the best in Canadian franchising in its second year
Canada’s franchising community gathered at the iconic Carlu in Toronto for the Elite Franchise Top 100 (EF100) Canada 2026 Gala, celebrating the second year of this national ranking and awards program.
What began as an ambitious new platform has quickly evolved into a must-attend event for the industry, bringing together leading franchisors, franchisees, and partners to recognise standout performance across the country.
This year’s awards reflected a sector that continues to push forward, highlighting brands that are navigating economic pressures, evolving consumer expectations, and operational challenges with confidence and creativity. From established systems to fast-growing entrants, the 2026 cohort demonstrated what modern franchising success looks like in Canada today.
Speaking at the event, Scott English, Founder and Global Brand Director of Elite Franchise, noted:
“In just its second year, the EF100 has become a meaningful marker of excellence within Canadian franchising. What stands out most is the calibre of brands involved, those who are not only performing well, but continuously investing in their systems, their franchisees, and their future growth.”
Recognising Excellence Across the Sector
The 2026 program expanded its reach with the addition of two new award categories, bringing the total to 12 honours, including the widely anticipated People’s Choice Award. Together, the awards reflect both long-standing leadership and emerging momentum within the industry.
2026 EF100 Award Winners Included:
- Top Franchise in Canada (EF100 No.1): Pizza Pizza
- Exceptional Performance of the Year: Swiss Chalet
- Franchisee Outstanding Achievement: Eric Giroux, EverLine Coatings
- Rising Star of the Year (New): Haystax Mortgage
- Highest New Entry (New): Snap-on Tools
- Sustainability of the Year: ServiceMaster Restore
- Diversity & Inclusion of the Year: Kekuli Cafe
- Innovation of the Year: Thai Express
- Community Builder of the Year: Senior Helpers
- Emerging Franchisor of the Year: Let’s Get Moving
- People’s Choice Award: MR.SUB
Explore the full list of EF100 Canada 2026 winners HERE.
Looking Ahead
Beyond recognising achievement, the EF100 continues to serve as a lens into where franchising is headed, spotlighting systems that are building scalable models, prioritising franchisee success, and responding to a rapidly changing business environment.
With increased participation and expanded categories in its second year, the program reinforces its role as a credible and growing benchmark for excellence in Canadian franchising.
Submissions for EF100 Canada 2027 will open on August 4, 2026, inviting the next wave of franchise brands to be recognised among the country’s best.
