Franchise concepts that cater to today’s demand for fresh, feel-good food
By Gina Makkar
Today’s consumers want food that fuels them without sacrificing taste, and restaurants are rising to the occasion with vibrant, flavour-packed menus. From globally-inspired entrées to plant-based treats, these three brands bring a unique twist to the table but share a common goal: to make healthy eating accessible and enjoyable.
La Prep
When Naveen Seth took over La Prep in 2017, it marked a turning point. Originally named Café Supreme, it was rebranded to La Prep in 2010. But it wasn’t until Seth took over that the brand found a new sense of purpose. “I wanted an open kitchen where everything is made in front of you,” says Seth. “I also felt that although we all want to eat healthy, we also want to live happily. We want our cheat meals here and there.”
The company’s tagline, “Find Your Balance,” reflects La Prep’s core philosophy: that diners can enjoy both indulgence and wellness, depending on what they’re craving. “We offer you the indulgence of great pastries and desserts, but you can also have healthier meals if that’s what you prefer. You find your balance,” says Seth.
The benefits of owning La Prep are ample. Unlike a traditional restaurant’s long hours, La Prep typically follows standard office hours, allowing franchisees to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The simple, yet appealing menu focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients that don’t require specialized equipment for easy execution and consistent quality.
Ongoing innovation keeps the brand relevant in a competitive market. As of late, they’ve seen an increased demand for multicultural flavours, and they’re embracing the trend by testing and introducing menu items that reflect a range of global cuisines.
With La Prep locations in office towers, hospitals, universities, and airports, expansion plans include a location in Scarborough General Hospital and the brand’s newest venture: street fronts. “I feel there is a void in the market where La Prep would fit perfectly,” explains Seth. “Suburban markets where you want to meet a friend for coffee or have a snack without a full lunch or dinner.”
Seth says that prior business experience, regardless of the industry, is an essential skill for franchisees. He adds that a passion for food lured him from a career in IT to the culinary world. “I am a CEO who is fully hands-on. I’m in the kitchen. I spend time doing [research and development], developing new products, and developing new recipes.”
Leveraging Seth’s technology background, La Prep introduced cloud-based kitchens to streamline operations and self-service kiosks to enhance customer experience. They are also launching a new online catering platform designed for office and home catering.
Seth says success demands time, effort, and careful attention to every detail of the operation. “As a franchise, we provide full support, guidance, and ongoing training. We’re giving them everything to be successful. They just have to be invested in actually being there and doing it.”
Qwench Juice Bar
Qwench Juice Bar opened its first Canadian location in 2020 and expanded to four locations throughout the Greater Toronto Area. “We grew slowly because it was a new concept and we wanted to catch the market before we grow across Canada,” says the brand’s master franchisor.
While there’s no shortage of juice bars on the market, Qwench differentiates itself with a commitment to freshness and nutrition. Every juice, bowl, and sandwich is made to order using nutrient-dense superfoods. “We don’t use any sugar, no sugary frozen yogurt, and no additives, and we sweeten our smoothies using either honey or agave,” he says. Instead, ingredients like fresh Greek yogurt and whole fruits form the base of their products, delivering maximum nutrition without compromise. “We also make almond and hemp milk in-store on a daily basis.”
In combining a solid foundation and growing consumer demand for healthier food and beverage options, the brand is ready to scale, beginning with upcoming stores in Alberta and Vancouver.
As a franchise opportunity, Qwench offers the benefit of being part of a growing brand at an early stage of expansion. “With people becoming more health-conscious, there are a lot of opportunities across Canada. A juice, a smoothie, a bowl, [or] a healthy sandwich is a good alternative to fast food, something quick to grab on the go.”
For this growing franchise system, building brand awareness remains a key focus. The company is addressing this strategy through increased marketing investment over the next five to ten years to establish itself in the market.
Qwench is an ideal opportunity for individuals looking to step away from the traditional 9-to-5 and take ownership of their own business. The brand tends to attract entrepreneurial-minded people who are eager to build something of their own. Once on board, Qwench offers hands-on, personalized support every step of the way. “We walk with them through the process, from finding a location and completing the engineering drawings, to assisting with construction, to supporting after the store is open,” says the franchisor. “We’re very hands-on.”
For a successful Qwench location, the most important ingredient is training. Qwench encourages new owners to spend time working in their store to fully understand the day-to-day operations. “They are in the trenches themselves, so they’ill understand it and be prepared for what will come in the future.”
Freshii
Founded in downtown Toronto in 2005, Freshii has grown to more than 180 locations nationwide. Designed for people on the go, the concept is rooted in serving delicious, healthy meals made with fresh, quality ingredients. Customers can tailor their meals to suit a range of dietary needs, from keto and gluten-free to high-protein or plant-based. Whether fueling a busy day or grabbing a treat, Freshii makes it easy to find balance.
Freshii continues to push innovation with the rollout of its new oven program, designed to elevate flavours and expand menu possibilities. Moving away from the traditional steam table model, locations are now baking proteins and vegetables, bringing out exciting new textures and flavour profiles. “We still maintain the favourites, but we’re looking to elevate the product and meet what you would consider to be a premium brand,” says brand leader Chris Cann.
Alongside their insights from years of operational experience, Freshii’s head office team actively supports franchisees in growing their market share. They focus on helping franchisees boost unit-level profitability through product selection, national promotions, ongoing innovation, local marketing tools, and a consistent, in-store experience that keeps customers coming back.
Ideal franchisees are passionate, hands-on, and committed to the brand’s health-focused mission. Owners come from all backgrounds, from office professionals to dentists to seasoned entrepreneurs. Success in the system relies on a strong work ethic, willingness to follow established systems, and genuine enthusiasm for health and wellness. “I always tell franchisees when they first start that money is not made. You have to earn it. And it has everything to do with being passionate about the brand and that you’re following the systems,” says Cann.
Once a franchisee joins the team, regional managers work closely with them from day one, rolling up their sleeves to help launch the business and lay the groundwork for a strong, collaborative relationship.
Cann advises franchisees to be present and prepared to put in the effort. “That is your baby, and it’s hard work. Be prepared for that. However, the hard work does pay off. I would lean into the innovation from your brand and what they’re trying to help you achieve.” He also says not to be afraid to give feedback or speak up when you’re facing challenges. “You’re not on the outside of the circle. You’re part of the brand.”
Finally, Cann encourages franchisees to embrace challenges as they come. “What you learn from the tough times when you’re uncomfortable in your restaurant—that’s where the learning is. That’s where you learn how to do what you’ve set out to do. Embrace those moments and learn, and that will take you to the next level.”
Read this article in the Food Issue of Franchise Canada, 2025, titled “Fresh and Green”