Gary Parkinson

Evidence is mounting that national support for domestic businesses has flourished into a durable movement and a competitive operating advantage for Canadian brands

Canadians love to indulge a sweet tooth, and bakeries are the perfect destination for fresh products like pastries, cakes, and artisanal breads. Opening a bakery brings a sweet aroma to a neighbourhood, a quaint, eclectic destination where people can spend money on freshly baked goods and sweeten their moods. Many…

Long & McQuade is the largest chain of musical instrument retailers in Canada, with over 100 stores from British Columbia to Newfoundland. Its consistent branding, standardized services, and national presence lead many people to assume it operates as a franchise. Is Long & McQuade a Franchise? Long & McQuade is…

Small business ownership forms the backbone of the Canadian economy. As of December 2023, 1.1 million employer businesses were registered across Canada, according to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). Collectively, small businesses represent 98.1% of all Canadian employer businesses. There is no shortage of ideas for small business…

The appeal of franchise ownership intrigues Canadians from coast to coast to coast. However, entrepreneurship comes with a hefty cost, even with more affordable franchise business models. Major food and retail franchises require investments of several hundred thousand dollars or more. Most first-time entrepreneurs have limited experience as business operators,…

As a new franchisee, you must conduct your due diligence before investing hard-earned money into a franchise business. Before signing any franchise agreement in Canada, there is one document you are legally entitled to receive — and that you should read with great care. The Franchise Disclosure Document, commonly referred…

The entrepreneurial dream is alive and well in Canada, and franchise business models offer a proven path for aspiring entrepreneurs to recognize their dreams. Many Canadians look beyond the domestic market, investing in franchises with larger global footprints. The world's biggest franchise systems didn't become global giants by accident. Franchisors…

Franchising offers a structured path to live the entrepreneurial dream. A franchise is an established brand, with a proven business model, along with guided support from the experienced franchisor. That being said, not all franchises deliver the same return on an initial investment. The most lucrative franchise opportunities in Canada…

Entering the world of franchising in Canada is an exciting prospect, though rarely a straightforward one. From navigating provincial disclosure requirements to dissecting the fine print in a multi-year franchise agreement, the legal landscape often feels overwhelming for first-time and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. Canada is home to franchises large and…

Chipotle Mexican Grill is one of the most recognizable fast-casual restaurant brands in North America. Canadians enjoy the perceived healthier fast food option, appreciating the fresh, customizable ingredients that form delicious, hearty meals. For Canadian entrepreneurs exploring franchise opportunities in the food sector, Chipotle is a popular investable business under…

Canada's fastest-growing Mediterranean franchise was built with a firm conviction to stand out from other restaurants. Founded in London, Ontario in 2012, Tahini's has spent over a decade proving that bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and daring fusion can fuel one of the most passionate brand communities in Canada. Having built…

It started in 1969 with a woman named Mary Brown and a recipe that was too good to keep at the family table. More than five decades later, the franchise that bears her name has grown to nearly 300 locations coast to coast. International franchises are opening monthly in places…

A franchise agreement is a documented legal contract between a franchisor and a franchisee. It defines the rights, obligations, and expectations of both parties, detailing how each business owner may operate, pay royalties, and manage the professional relationship. The franchise agreement specifies all the hallmarks of the established franchise and…

For many aspiring entrepreneurs, the cost of getting started is a major roadblock obstructing the appeal of business ownership. It’s for this reason that cheap franchises in Canada attract so much attention from first-time investors and career changers. The idea of stepping into a proven business model without breaking the…

Shopping just became even more convenient thanks to a new partnership between DoorDash and Giant Tiger.

Companies live by the phrase ‘location, location, location’. Growing businesses are increasingly choosing communities like Kawartha Lakes to tap into locally sourced, high-tech talent.

POI’s LivingLAB and approach to hybrid work offers employees choice over how and where they work. Businesses can also reduce overhead expenses by adopting hybrid work stations.