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 Matthew Potvin – WingsUp! in Welland, Ontario
Meet Matthew Potvin, a dynamic new owner in the WingsUp! franchise network, whose journey is a testament to passion, dedication, and a commitment to community.
From a young age, Matt was immersed in the world of food service, working alongside family members to ensure the success of their restaurant. This hands-on experience laid a strong foundation for their future ventures.
Complementing this practical background, Matt studied Business Communications at Brock University, equipping them with essential skills to navigate the business world.
For Matt, owning a franchise was driven by two key motivations:
- Creating a Community Hub: They aspired to create a welcoming space where friends, family, and community members could gather and enjoy great food together.
- Belief in Small Business Impact: Having witnessed firsthand the positive effects that small businesses can have on local communities, Matt is dedicated to giving back and being an integral part of their community as their business grows.
When it came to selecting a franchise, Matt chose WingsUp! for three compelling reasons:
- Supportive Corporate Team: The robust support from the WingsUp! corporate team has been crucial, especially as this is my first store. The comprehensive guidance and expertise provided have been instrumental in setting me up for success.
- Trendy Environment and Fresh Products: The vibrant atmosphere of the WingsUp! restaurants, combined with their commitment to fresh, high-quality products, positions the franchise to exceed customer expectations.
- Growth Opportunities: WingsUp! offers promising growth potential in various markets, aligning with Matt’s vision for expanding their business.
Transitioning from a restaurant manager to a franchisee has been a smooth process for Matt. They highlight the clear and supportive communication from the corporate team throughout the initial setup and training phases. The operations team’s hands-on approach and ongoing communication have further contributed to a positive experience.
Matt offers this advice to those considering a franchise:
“Be prepared to dedicate long hours, especially when starting out. Open early, stay open late, and learn when your customers are most likely to visit. Use this information to your advantage and ensure that opening and closing checklists are a priority for your team. Regular follow-ups will help ensure everything is completed to standard.”
With a strong foundation, a supportive network, and a clear vision, Matt exemplifies what it means to thrive in the franchise world. Their journey with WingsUp! not only reflects their personal dedication but also their commitment to building a vibrant community space.
Support local small business owners like Matt! Treat yourself to dinner at your local WingsUp!
