According to the Canadian Federal Government 2022 statistics, there are 1.19 million small businesses and of these, the Canadian Franchise Association reports an estimated 657,000 are franchise small businesses.
Why is this important? Small businesses help drive the Canadian economy from creating employment to giving back to the community. They may be small but they play a big role in our lives!
Here is the story of one of a million small business owners who support us:
Meet Aysha and Waqar Azam – Mary Brown’s Chicken in Ontario
Aysha and Waqar originally hail from Pakistan and spent many formative years in the U.A.E. Waqar’s career in accounting saw him serve as a Financial Controller for over 15 years in a multinational firm in Dubai, while Aysha brought her passion for education to life as an elementary school teacher.
In 2014, their family’s journey took an exciting turn when we moved to Canada with our three children. This was more than just a relocation—it was the start of a new chapter, one that brought their dream of working together to life. With a mutual love for food and a desire to serve people, opening a Mary Brown’s franchise felt like a natural fit.
Aysha and Waqar explored different food chains, but it wasn’t until they tasted the fried chicken at a Mary Brown’s in Toronto that they knew they’d found something special. It was the best fried chicken they’d ever had—delicious, authentically Canadian, and served with a warm hospitality that left a lasting impression.
Since opening their own Mary Brown’s, the experience has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. Running a franchise demands dedication and a sense of ownership, but the support they’ve received from head office has been instrumental in their success. One of the greatest joys is building meaningful connections—with their guests, their team, and the community.
They take immense pride in being Mary Brown’s brand ambassadors and giving back to our community. From supporting shelters, churches, senior homes, and hospitals, to sponsoring local basketball and hockey teams, they are actively involved in local initiatives that matter.
Aysha and Waqar’s advice for anyone starting out? Never stop investing in training for yourself and your team. Your team is the backbone of your business, and their happiness and skills are key to your success.
Support local small business owners like Aysha and Waqar! Treat yourself to a Big Mary at your local Mary Brown’s Chicken.
