Cam Inglis is making his mark in franchising as the President of not one, but two brands: Marble Slab Creamery and Poko Popcorn. He’s dedicated his businesses to serving up tasty treats – gourmet ice cream and popcorn – and to ensuring his business partners have the tools they need to get their own taste of success.
As a self-starter and go-getter, Inglis has taken both businesses to new heights. His latest achievement is the opening of the company’s new fully-owned and operated distribution centre in Calgary, Alberta this past spring, which is bringing increased efficiency and improved service to the franchise system.
With established and growing franchise ventures under his belt, and a focus on spending time with family, Inglis is living the best of both worlds. Read on to learn about his ingredients for success, and to find out what other opportunities will be popping up in his future.
The most interesting thing I’ve done recently is…
I test drove a forklift.
In its best form, work is…
Fun.
A good franchisee…
Is energetic, determined, and passionate about the customer and the business.
A good franchisor…
Is innovative and strict, but fair, and charts a bright path to success for all partners.
My top advice for prospective franchisees is…
To ensure you are passionate about the product and business you are considering. Authenticity and passion is critical to your ultimate success.
My top advice for new franchisors is…
To be well-capitalized and patient, and to work closely with, and stay connected to, the first few franchise partners in your system in order to establish a successful program at the outset.
The most important thing in life is…
Family
One of the most enjoyable things to do is…
Nap? OK, perhaps enjoy vacation time with family and friends, and enjoy down time to its fullest.
The hardest thing for me to do is…
To slow down and breathe.
My favourite drink is…
A Marble Slab Creamery Milkshake, or a Bud Light, depending on the occasion.
If I could change one thing…
I would have opened our own distribution centre sooner.
If I could meet anyone…
It would be The Great One – Wayne Gretzky
The person who has had the most positive influence on me as a businessperson is…
One of my long-time business partners and mentors, Bernie.
Canadian franchising is…
Competitive.
My franchise system began because…
Marble Slab Creamery – In the beginning, I was looking for an opportunity to work for myself, and I absolutely loved the Marble Slab Creamery customer, concept, and experience.
Poko Popcorn – I saw a gap in the marketplace for a truly amazing (some might say life-changing), gourmet popcorn. After months and months of development, my team and I created Poko Popcorn.
The most positive influence on my life as a person is…
My parents.
The key to success is…
Tenacity.
I’d like my friends to describe me as…
Caring and supportive.
The accomplishment I look forward to the most is…
Expanding the Poko Popcorn brand across Canada.
My personal motto is…
Do what you love and love what you do. Anyone that knows me and has worked with me will have heard the question, “Do you love it?”
One necessary item on my life’s “to do” list is…
Raising my two children to be happy and successful adults.