November/December 2017Publisher's Message

Publisher’s Message: First-Class Franchising

When you’re looking for the right franchise fit, why not start with the franchise systems that have demonstrated excellence? That’s where FranchiseCanada comes in. The star-studded Excellence in Franchising issue is filled with the finest in Canadian franchising, including best-in-class systems and flourishing franchisees.

The Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) Awards of Excellence in Franchising recognize excellence in franchise operations and celebrate the mutually-rewarding relationships between franchisees and franchisors. What makes this awards program so unique is the basis on which the awards are determined: feedback provided by the systems’ franchisees.

This year’s Grand Prize winner in the Non-Traditional Franchises category is Par-T-Perfect, featured in our cover story. In this article, franchisee Amber Dinda explains how the home-based children’s party and event planning franchise provides the perfect mix of flexibility and fulfillment.

You can also learn more about all 2017 CFA Awards of Excellence gold, silver, and bronze winners, along with the recipients of the CFA Recognition Awards, which honour individuals and systems for their leadership excellence and exemplary charitable contributions, and Franchisees’ Choice Designees.

These awards attest to the significant contributions from franchisees, who are the face behind any successful franchise system. Top-notch franchisees are also often recognized through Franchisee of the Year awards, and we take an inside look at five of these award-winning franchisees, who share the stories behind their success, along with valuable advice for those considering franchising.

Want to hear from other inspiring and thriving franchisees? We take you along on a day in the life of Alair Homes franchisee Justin Thompson, who has fully committed to the company’s “Living better starts here” motto. We also offer a glimpse into the first year of operations for passionate Pumpernickel’s franchisee Ken Preville, and showcase three young Little Kickers franchisees who have grown their operations with the children’s soccer franchise.

Other important factors to consider when selecting the right franchise opportunity are the system’s growth trajectory, and its longevity. We share the stories of four Canadian brands that have successfully expanded across Canada, and are now looking to other countries to continue this growth. And we profile three food franchise systems that celebrated major milestones in 2017, outlining the reasons behind their long-term franchising reign.

Beyond this Excellence in Franchising issue, FranchiseCanada and CFA have the resources you need to narrow your franchise search, from our online member directory, LookforaFranchise.ca, to our annual FranchiseCanada print directory and FranchiseCanada tradeshow, held in major cities across Canada.

If this focus on franchising excellence has piqued your interest in building your own franchise concept, you should check out our “Franchise Your Business” feature, where you’ll find insights from four different franchise experts to help you take your strong business concept to great franchising heights.

We wish you a happy holiday season, and all the best as you get set to embark on your own excellent franchising future in the new year.