November/December 2020Special Franchise Focus

Special Franchise Focus: Quick Service Restaurants (QSR)

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the foodservice industry, but it seems that Canadians are still indulging in their favourite quick service food items to keep their spirits lifted and stomachs fed.

In Canada, 22 million restaurant visits are made every day across the country, and many of these visits are made to Canada’s more than 75,000 food service franchise units. It’s a fact: Canadians love to dine with the franchise model. More Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) members are involved in the food service industry than any other sector, and with good reason. The food service sector makes up a significant portion of the franchise industry’s total growth, and most fast-food restaurants stayed open for take-out and delivery during the pandemic as they were classified as an essential service.

This special section takes a closer look at the quick service restaurant sector, highlighting the factors that have made these convenience-focused restaurants a popular choice for guests. It will also introduce some of the QSR franchise systems that are serving up appetizing opportunities for franchisees from coast to coast.