Canadian Franchise Association CEO Sherry McNeil
Previous IssuesPublisher's MessageSeptember/October 2023

Publisher’s Message: Calling All Foodie Franchisees

Canadians make 22 million visits to restaurants every day, so, it’s no surprise that about 40 per cent of CFA’s member franchise systems are food based, whether it’s dine-in, quick service, or another category. That means that of the two million Canadians employed by the franchise industry, roughly 1.2 million work in restaurants, while an additional 283,700 work in jobs in related industries. That’s a lot of people! But with so many options, which franchise is your best fit? That’s where Franchise Canada’s Food Issue can help with your research.

This issue is filled to the brim with delicious options for potential franchisees. Turn to our cover story package to find four franchises—Humpty’s, Fatburger, Ricky’s, and Famoso from FDF Brandz—that offer a buffet of opportunities for would-be franchisees. After that, browse our comprehensive menu of full-service restaurant franchies in our Across Canada story, featuring options from coast to coast, from White Spot to La Belle & Le Boeuf.

Food franchises are resilient, and they can adapt to changing preferences. For example, check out our feature on healthy and environmentally conscious food franchises on page 33. These brands offer nutritious food without compromising on taste, a combination that many modern diners demand. Speaking of modern tastes, the global quick service restaurant (QSR) franchises are breaking ground and expanding diners’ horizons with world cuisine. And what meal is complete without dessert? On page 25 you can sample some dessert concepts, with a sugary side of doughnut franchises for you to consider.

Next, let’s join some franchisees at the table and learn about their experiences as entrepreneurs. We walk through a typical day in the life of Hallmark franchisees Wanda and Lawson MacEachern, who own three locations in the Maritimes. Then, dig into the success story of Osmow’s franchisee Jatin Sapra as he shares his experiences in his first year of business ownership and his exciting plans for expansion. Next, be inspired by young franchisee Amelia Kleinschmidt, who is making a name for herself with her Global Pet Food location in Burnaby, B.C. And get to know iconic brand Kumon, which has been educating kids for more than 30 years. We also introduce you to SpeedPro president Stuart Burns, who has doubled the number of SpeedPro franchises in Canada during his tenure.

This issue also contains helpful resources for anyone considering franchising, or just starting out on a franchising journey. The Franchise Canada team explores the key things to consider when buying a franchise resale. Legal expert Simi Solebo provides a breakdown of what to look for in a franchise agreement, and franchise system expert Gary Prenevost answers the question, “How do franchisees determine the perfect franchise opportunity?”

If you’re considering franchising as the path to business ownership, don’t forget that FranchiseCanada.Online is here to help. The website is your online resource for franchise information, inspiring success stories, learning videos, podcasts, and more. Sign up for Franchise Canada E-News for franchising updates delivered right to your inbox, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Franchising is so much more than just food, with many different industries represented. Explore your options at cfa.ca/lookforafranchise to find the right franchise for you.

Grab a fork and tuck into this issue packed with franchise opportunities, expert advice, and important information for entrepreneurs. If you want to own your own business with a proven concept and the help of a support system, now’s your chance to take the first step on that journey. Bon appetit!