As businesses across the country and around the world recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, franchises have been uniquely positioned in an excellent position to withstand the stresses of lockdowns and growing challenges.
A recent article published by The Globe and Mail highlights a handful of Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) members who share their triumphs in the face of the pandemic as their franchise systems managed to come out on the other side.
David Druker, CEO of the The UPS Store Canada, tells The Globe that, “Franchising is really a lot of small businesses, so it’s no different than the rest of the world. It’s all been impacted.” He adds the key phrase used by individuals within the franchising community: “franchising is about being in business for yourself, but not by yourself.”
Noting the CFA’s Virtual Franchise Canada Shows that have been taking place for more than a year as live webinars, Druker says that the pandemic may have ramped up interest in these virtual events as it’s easier for people to access and attend them. Live tradeshows pre-pandemic may have garnered about 20 attendees, while virtual tradeshows now receive at least 200 registrants who are interested in making their dream of business ownership come true with the ease of attending from their home or office.
Driverseat CEO Brian Bazely also spoke with The Globe, explaining how his shuttle and chauffeur-based franchise innovated at the height of the pandemic to deliver groceries to the doorsteps of customers in need of assistance.
At Dogtopia Canada, president and CEO Kim Hamm explains how her franchise system pivoted to roll out a five-week puppy preschool program for new pet parents looking for coaching and support with their furry friends.