Though the franchise industry is comprised of every sector one can imagine—manufacturing, retail, service, and more—when asked to name a franchise system, those unfamiliar with our community will often point to a quick service restaurant (QSR) they frequent, or their favourite sit-down restaurant where they celebrate all life’s biggest occasions.
That’s because the foodservice sector touches the hearts—and stomachs, and wallets—of consumers more than any other. Restaurants Canada estimates that the country’s foodservice industry pulls in $114 billion in sales each year and employs approximately 520,000 young Canadians. The QSR portion of the sector in particular is a juggernaut: in Canada, the sector is expected to bring in $36.4 billion in revenue by year’s end, according to IBISWorld, which is a seven per cent increase from 2023.
This issue highlights some of the many fantastic food franchises in our membership, with an emphasis on how they are responding to the needs and wants of local communities across the country. For instance, we take a look at three franchise brands that are satisfying locals’ cravings for international flavours and internationally inspired foods. Later in the issue, we investigate the vegetarian-food “trend”—which shows no signs of slowing down—by analyzing the franchise systems that put plant-based options at the forefront of their menus. And since everyone, everywhere is feeling the pinch of today’s economy, our article on value menus is especially apt; learn how Fat Bastard Burrito, Wendy’s, and Taco Bell are answering their customers’ call for more affordable menu items.
Anytime a system decides to come from abroad to set up shop on our home soil is a cause for celebration. In this edition, we speak with Chaiiwala of London, which is eyeing Canada’s shores for expansion. Another beverage brand, Chatime, a member of the Kevito Group, walked us through a day at one of their busy Ontario locations, while millennial franchisee Karan Kapoor explains why he chose up-and-coming Nani’s Gelato as his ideal franchise investment choice.
Of course, we all love a good takeout meal or night out on the town, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t explore other sectors that make up the vibrant tapestry of the franchise industry. We are thrilled to feature Pamela Lee, the president and CEO of Mr. Lube + Tires (formerly Mr. Lube Canada), as the subject of this issue’s Leadership Profile. There are plenty of exciting innovations ahead for the eminent franchise system, and learning how Lee made the leap from the telecom industry to the driver’s seat at Mr. Lube is truly inspiring.
Recognizing franchisees who are making an impact in their system and in their community is another important facet of Franchise Canada. Schinkel Properties, a multi-unit franchisee of hotel brand Realstar Hospitality, has been pushing the message that community involvement isn’t optional—it’s a way to connect with your customers and staff and show them that you care.
Our experts tackled two tough topics in this issue: Amanda Occhicone, vice president of LABOUR, dives into the best marketing practices for both franchisors and franchisees, while David Kornhauser of Loopstra Nixon LLP walks us through the circumstances in which you should solicit the services of a franchise lawyer. And for those interested in exploring full-service restaurant ownership, check out our lineup of CFA members putting their own spin on a traditional concept.
Whether you are a franchisor, a franchisee, or looking to purchase your own franchise location, one thing’s certain: we all have to eat. Foodservice is a category of our industry that not only serves the community but brings it together, in more ways than one. So, pull up a chair, tuck in your napkin, and get ready to feast on all that the Canadian franchise industry has to offer!