Let’s be honest: running a small business can be exceptionally rewarding, but it can also be stressful at times. There’s staff that needs to be trained, local marketing campaigns to sign off on, and those everyday hiccups that in the moment can feel like setbacks.
Of course, with a franchise location, an owner has the support of a proven system, which can help alleviate those “How do I get started?” or “What’s the next step?” anxieties. That’s why the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) has always upheld our purpose to help everyday Canadians realize the dream of owning their own business—franchise systems are a showcase of success and can be a straightforward path to achieving this goal.
For those searching for a resilient franchise category, wellness is here to stay: in 2023, 70 per cent of Canadians reported they are becoming more conscious about their health, up from 56 per cent in 2021. This interest is highlighted in our story on franchise brands that have a positive impact on customers’ mental health in a surprising number of ways, from treating your puppy to a grooming package to enhancing the lighting in your home.
Next, when you think about relaxation, self-care services likely come to mind. In “Taking Care of Business”, you’ll find three companies blazing a trail with trendy, cutting-edge treatments. Not your standard spa packages, these services may be just what you’re looking for in a franchise opportunity with benefits!
We all know that work-life balance is imperative for a sound mind and healthy emotional state. Take it from the four franchisees profiled in “Putting the Busy in Business”, all owners of mobile service-based businesses: the flexibility that their chosen franchise system provides has made their lives that much simpler.
In keeping with the health and wellness theme, we highlight gyms and fitness brands from coast to coast. Covering opportunities from boutique specialty studios to one-stop shops that provide all the bells and whistles, there’s something for everyone looking to bring a little “sweat equity” to their community.
But getting a sweat on isn’t just for teens and adults, as Little Yogis Academy proves. This mobile brand specializes in introducing Generation Alpha (those roughly 13 years of age and younger) to healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Multi-unit franchisee Melissa Heikkila melded the skills she honed as a teacher with her love of physical activity—and with each pose her students pick up, she’s making an enduring impact.
Contributing to the community is also a fantastic way to boost your mental—and sometimes physical—health. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Canada has long been “driving home” the importance of charitable work at all levels of its organization.
South of the border, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is looking to cut into Canada’s competitive hot beverage market by offering elevated drinks, meals, and snacks, starting in Alberta; you can read about their plans for expansion in “Exciting Things A Brewin”. Closer to home, Fully Promoted franchisees Jeff Gross and Lily Yin walk us through the ins and outs of a day in their shoes as business owners. Plus, Pacini finds success in addressing the unique needs of its Mississauga, Ontario, community, and we pick the brain of Foodtastic president and CEO Peter Mammas on what his company looks for in an ideal franchisee.
For those considering small business ownership through franchising, and for those already within the industry, legal expert Frank Zaid talks about the importance of having, and participating in, a franchise advisory council. On the marketing side, Marty Menard discusses why and how online analytics can help franchisors and franchisees alike find their perfect fit.
The CFA is proud to help facilitate the journeys of entrepreneurs from all walks of life who are searching for fulfillment through franchising. This community is strong, and growing—we hope you will join us in finding your own version of personal and professional satisfaction in our industry.