For franchise industry professionals and the franchisees that help bring their brands to the masses, the start of a new year isn’t the time for planning. Instead, that process begins in the weeks and even months prior, to ensure their businesses are well-positioned to succeed. An understanding of the upcoming landscape, both within the franchising industry and the specific sectors these businesses cater to, is necessary to thrive over the coming year, and beyond.
January is the perfect time to familiarize yourself with how the economy has been faring, and what experts predict is to come. That’s why we tapped CIBC to provide a thorough and—best of all—surprisingly optimistic look at what the 2025 economy means for our industry, from labour needs to inflation rates. Other suppliers, such as Moneris, FranNet, and data firm Environics Analytics, have also generously offered their insights on the spending habits of Canadians and how shifting demographics are impacting some of the largest categories within the franchise industry. As you explore your investment options this winter, be sure to take their expertise into consideration.
On that note, there’s no better way to separate high-quality franchises from those that leave something to be desired than by looking for the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) member logo. If you’re already familiar with the CFA and our Code of Ethics, you already understand the importance—but if this is news to you, I encourage you to investigate the benefits of selecting one of our valued members for your first (or second, or third) franchise location.
Speaking of upstanding CFA members, this issue contains a fantastic selection of brands that are eager to welcome new and soon-to-be franchisees like yourself into their system. We explore what brought a new-to-Canada franchisee to purchase not one but two McDonald’s locations in Quebec, along with what you can learn from her first 365 days in business. Another intriguing brand, Mad Science, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, and a location owner who serves Montreal and Ottawa gives us a glimpse into the magic the company brings to students in the area. And as we turn the page on the season of giving, it can be easy to shift one’s attention from charitable endeavours—but not so for Topper’s Pizza franchisees, who extend that spirit throughout the year, affecting their local communities in positive and inspiring ways. Plus, as an added dose of inspiration, we dive into what pushed Anita Elliott, president of JDI Cleaning Services, to follow her passion and build a stalwart brand.
AI is again one of the biggest buzzwords of the year, and the franchise industry has been busy exploring all the exciting ways that it and other emerging technologies can impact businesses. Franchise Canada chatted with three member brands that have improved operations, sales, and quality of service by leveraging these innovations, and also picked the brains of three franchise support service and supplier members on how they have seen the industry evolve over the past few years.
In the end, no one can tell what the future will hold. But as always, franchising remains one the best ways to be in business for yourself but not by yourself. The stories in this issue show that, by following a proven model, success can be within reach, no matter your background. Follow your franchisor’s lead, and someday you may also be featured among these standout franchisees.