Many entrepreneurs are attracted to the franchise model’s distinct advantages, and for good reason. Contrary to running an independent restaurant, franchisees benefit from an established customer base, along with a wealth of resources and support for business operations. But what re the best franchises in Canada?
In short, there’s a lot to love about owning and running a franchise. However, if you are thinking about buying a franchise in Canada, it’s important to understand that not all brands are the same.
When it comes to key variables like brand recognition, training, operational support, and the required upfront investment, every franchisor offers something different, and some stand out as better options than others.
As leading restaurant real estate agents in Ontario, we’re exceptionally knowledgeable about top Canadian franchises. In this blog, we’ll look at the best franchises in Canada.
Want to explore current franchise opportunities in Ontario? Click here.
What Makes a Good Franchise?
Before jumping into our list of the best franchises in Canada, let’s first look at what actually makes a great franchise. As with any type of ranking, there are certain criteria that are subjective, while other factors are a little more material. So here’s what you should look out for when buying a franchise.
A Proven Track Record
First things first, a AAA franchise will have a strong track record of success, complete with consistent profitability in all kinds of markets.
This doesn’t mean you should only work with brands that are decades old, however, the best opportunities for entrepreneurs are typically with brands that have a solid track record of several years.
Efficient Operations
Beyond just the on-paper results, a truly great franchise will have effective, standardized systems in place to help you launch and/or operate your business long term. This includes aspects like customer service, marketing, training or on-boarding programs, quality assurance, and more.
Built-In Support
When it comes to running a successful business, adversity comes with the territory. But when you own a franchise, there will be additional support available to navigate the expected and unexpected challenges of running a business.
With that in mind, a great franchisor will be just as invested in your success as you are. They’ll offer ongoing support for whatever hurdles you may face.
High Standards
One underrated quality to look for in a franchisor is high standards.
The best franchises don’t just work with anyone – they’re selective and particular about who they choose to represent their brand. On the other hand, not-so-great franchises are more loose about who they work with. So, if a franchisor wants to know a lot of information about you, your business experience, and your ambition, it’s usually a green flag.
Looking for more information about buying a franchise in Canada? Read these blogs next!
- Owning a Franchise: What’s in Your Control?
- Are Franchises Cheaper?
- Jump Start Your Canadian Entrepreneurial Career by Buying a Franchise
The Best Restaurant Franchises in Canada
A&W
An iconic restaurant brand with a long tradition of success in the Canadian market, A&W stands out as one of the best franchise opportunities in the country. Offering some of the best operations support and training in the QSR industry, it’s not hard to understand why it’s one of the most sought-after franchise brands.
Tahini’s
Thahini’s is a fast-casual restaurant serving up modern twists on Mediterranean classics like shwarma, falafel, and Greek-inspired street food. The rapidly expanding chain is one of the most exciting franchise opportunities in Canada right now.
Freshii
For 20 years, Freshii has been serving “delicious, fast, and fresh meals” to Canadians on the hunt for something healthy and high-quality. From its humble beginnings in Toronto, the brand has expanded to more than 300 locations all over the world.
St. Louis Bar & Grill
St. Louis Bar & Grill is a 100% Canadian sports bar franchise known for its great food and fun atmosphere. As a franchisor, they offer all kinds of support and resources to help you be successful.
How to Know if a Franchise is the Right Fit
Once you’ve found a franchise opportunity that seemingly suits your business goals, it’s important to do your due diligence to determine if it’s going to be the right fit. Franchises may adhere to a somewhat rigid operations model, but at the end of the day, it’s your business. With that in mind, you’ll want to ensure that you and the franchisor will work well together.
Start by researching the brand independently. Visit a location, check out their website, search for reviews and testimonials, and if you can, speak to active franchisees. These steps can all give you valuable insights into what it’s like to actually work for the franchisor.
Once you’ve done a little bit of research, schedule time for a meeting or interview with the franchisor. Ask about brand values, what kind of support and resources they offer, and what their royalties/fee structure looks like.
Looking for more advice on how to interview a franchisor? Click here to read our article on the topic.
Start Your Journey With Carve Real Estate
If you’re looking to buy a franchise in Canada, the best place to start is with a restaurant real estate agent, like us – Carve Real Estate. As industry-specialized experts, we know the best franchises in Canada inside and out.
In addition to identifying high-quality franchises that match your goals, we’ll also guide you through the buying process from start to finish. This includes essential steps like acquiring financial and legal support, to navigating the key policies to disclosures surrounding the transaction.
Considering the purchase of a franchise? As seasoned experts in Canadian restaurant real estate, we’re here to help. Send us an email at ryan@carverealestate.com or give us a ring at 416-618-0054 to get started.
