TORONTO – On August 1, 2025, Elite Franchise Canada has proudly launched the second annual Elite Franchise 100 (EF100) league table, now recognizing the best and brightest franchises across Canada. Originally founded in the UK in 2017, this prestigious ranking now celebrates Canadian franchises that demonstrate excellence in growth, community impact, and innovation.

Ahead of the launch, Elite Franchise hosted a pre-entry virtual session on July 17, 2025 for franchisors, offering valuable insights into how to successfully submit for the EF100. The on-demand recording is now available, to view click here featuring industry experts, as well as esteemed EF100 judges, notable faces in the Canadian franchise landscape who shared their top tips for a successful submission.

Scott English, Global Brand Director for Elite Franchise, shared his excitement about the Canadian expansion, saying, “Bringing the EF100 to Canada was a major milestone for us, and we are thrilled to expand and continue to showcase the incredible achievements of Canadian franchisors. The EF100 not only celebrates their hard work and innovation but also highlights their positive impact on the communities they serve, and the economy.”

The 2026 EF100 has introduced two new category awards, bringing the total to 12 and including the highly coveted People’s Choice Award. New this year, the Highest Entry Award celebrating new systems to the EF100, as well as Rising Star of the Year, awarded to the system that moved highest up on the rankings from the year prior.

“The EF100 represents the pinnacle of franchising excellence,” English continued. “We are eager to recognize these trailblazers and forward-looking leaders who set the standard for success and innovation within the franchise industry, as well as offer an opportunity for franchise systems of all sizes the chance to be acknowledged and celebrated.”

The jury panel for this year’s EF100 in Canada includes distinguished and recognizable members of the franchise community, including Amy Delisle, Managing Partner at Keyser Mason Ball, LLP; Angelee Brown, Founder & CEO of FranOvation; Brian Bazely, Founder & Operating Director, Bazely Consulting; Gregory M. Prekupec, Corporate and Franchising Lawyer, Dipchand LLP; Larry M. Weinberg, Partner, Cassel’s Brock & Blackwell LLP, Travis Tinning, Chief Development Officer at Franchise GrowthLab. For a full list of judges, please click here.

Alongside earning a place in the EF100, participants will be invited to a black-tie awards ceremony in 2026, where they will have the opportunity to win prestigious awards such as Sustainable Business of the Year, Innovation of the Year, Community Builder of the Year, and Diversity & Inclusion of the Year. “These awards are a chance to celebrate the exceptional achievements of franchisors and their marketing innovation, contributions to the franchise community, and commitment to inclusivity,” added Scott English.

Key Dates for the EF100:

Entries open: August 1, 2025

Entries close: September 30, 2025

Finalist ranking announced: January 30, 2026

Additional Award finalists announced: February 6, 2026 

EF100 Celebration & Awards Evening: March, 2026 at Toronto’s iconic The Carlu

For more information on the EF100, including submission guidelines and the full list of judges, please visit the official Elite Franchise 100 page.

Media Contact:
Lisa Raffaele
lisa@bubblegumcanada.com

647-896-0743
About Elite Franchise Top 100:

The Elite Franchise Top 100 (EF100) is an annual league table that celebrates the best of Canada’s franchisors. It was established in the UK in 2017 and has since become a prestigious event in the UK franchise industry calendar. 2025 marked the first year the EF100 has launched in Canada. The EF100 recognizes excellence, innovation, and impact in franchising, and entries are judged by a panel of industry professionals. 

The post Celebrating Excellence in Canadian Franchising appeared first on Business Exchange Blog.

Time sure does fly by when you are having fun. Today, a well-established Canadian brand is celebrating their 25th Anniversary, an impressive milestone worth celebrating. Booster Juice first opened shop in Sherwood Park, Alberta back on November 13th, 1999. Since then, they have built a reputation on providing customers with delicious, feel-good smoothies and food options with top-notch customer service. Today, Canada’s original juice and smoothie bar is successfully operating with more than 450 locations from coast to coast. This type of growth and longevity is rare among Quick Service Restaurants like Booster Juice, something we, as Canadians, are happy to celebrate. 

“I really haven’t reflected on the magnitude of today’s event until now when it sunk in that it’s a big milestone, and it’s been a lot of fun and has changed many people’s lives positively” said Booster Juice President and CEO, Dale Wishewan. “I’m incredibly thankful of our amazing customers, Franchise Partners, and my corporate and store staff who I have the privilege to work alongside. This type of success isn’t possible without being surrounded by amazing people. I am also thankful of my family who have been so supportive during this wild journey.” 

Born and raised in Waskatenau, Alberta, Dale Wishewan has always been driven to pursue and achieve success. Possessing a lifelong passion for sports and fitness, he attended Portland State University on a baseball scholarship. While travelling throughout the United States, he noticed the popularity of juice and smoothie bars, and quickly realized there was an opportunity in the crowded Canadian fast-food market to provide a healthier alternative to consumers with an active lifestyle. Making his own protein concoctions for years, and with his interest in health and wellness, he made it a goal to bring fresh and healthy food to the Canadian market. The hard work began with his own home kitchen serving as the testing ground for one smoothie creation after another – including some of the most popular smoothies on their current menu! 

When the first store opened in Sherwood Park, it was a new concept to Canada. November was not the ideal time either going into the dead of a Canadian winter selling cold beverages. Co-workers, neighbours, and friends thought Dale was crazy to embark on something so foreign to Canadians, but he was determined. As it turned out, people were ready for a healthy fast-food alternative, and there was nothing else like Booster Juice in the market. 

Things moved quickly after that. By the end of year one, fifteen locations were open and in year two, another thirty-five more locations were added. This was such an achievement that it is still a Canadian Franchise Record for opening 50 stores in two years from inception. 

When others in the Food Service Industry have asked how he was able to open 50 stores in two years, Dale’s reply is always the same, “I didn’t know in the first year whether 5 stores were typical, or 25, and everything came naturally from a project management side. The next thing you know we had 50 stores.” 

Now, after 25 years, they are still blending up incredibly delicious smoothies, delivering convenient wraps, paninis, rolling up energizing Booster Balls, and freshly preparing nutritious shots and beverages. 

The post Booster Juice Celebrates 25th Anniversary appeared first on Business Exchange Blog.

BizSold is excited to announce the launch of its brand-new Franchise Directory, a comprehensive resource featuring hundreds of top franchise brands. This all-in-one guide is designed to provide prospective franchise owners with the information they need to make informed decisions about franchise ownership.

Available at over 40 franchise shows across Canada and the United States, the directory offers easy access to a wide range of franchise opportunities in various industries. The magazine is also linked to an online directory, allowing users to connect with franchisors in real time via QR code. Finding franchise information has never been easier!

Pamela Labelle, President and CEO of BizSold, shared her enthusiasm for the new directory: “We’re always looking for innovative ways to connect franchisors and potential buyers. This new directory is our next step in fostering these connections and making franchise ownership dreams a reality.”

Click here to view the new online Franchise Directory.

Franchisors interested in advertising in the directory should act fast as limited spots are available. Don’t miss the chance to be featured in this essential resource that will be distributed at 40+ franchise events to an audience of over 150,000 potential buyers.

For more information on advertising or to reserve your spot, call us toll-free at 1-877-337-1188.

The post Introducing BizSold’s New Franchise Directory appeared first on Business Exchange Blog.

About this event:

Are you thinking about buying a business? Looking for businesses for sale? Don’t know where to begin? Attend the Business Exchange Virtual Event and in 1.5 hours you will learn the ins and outs of buying a business in Canada and learn where to find a business for sale in Canada.

On July 20th learn from our expert panel on where to find businesses for sale, how to get business financing, legal and financial considerations, the benefits of using a business broker, and is franchising right for you.

If you are serious about getting into business, you won’t want to miss this event.

📅 Date: Wednesday, July 20, 2022

⌚ Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM.

🎦 Event Type: Virtual Event. 

🎫 Admission: FREE to attend. Please make sure to register to get the access pass.

Reasons to attend?

• Avoid costly mistakes when buying a business or franchise
• Learn about the due diligence process
• Free legal advice that you need before starting a business
• Tips on structuring your business to reduce your taxes
• Learn about the business financing options available in Canada
• Benefits of using a business broker and realtor for the buying process
• Where to find your next business opportunity

Meet Our Speakers

🎤 Pamela Labelle – Business Exchange, CEO & President

Topic: Where You Can Find Businesses for Sale

🎤 Armond Azoomanian – Homelife/Response Realty Inc ., Broker

Topic: Benefits of Using a Business Broker to Buy a Business

🎤 Tyril Froese – MNP, CPA, Partner, Professional and Private Enterprise

Topic: Financials of Buying a Business

🎤 Frank Robinson – Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP, Business Lawyer

Topic: Legal Aspects of Buying a Business or Franchise

🎤 Shawn Allen – Matrix Mortgage, Principal Owner

Topic: Getting Financing to Buy a Businesses

🎤 Ryan Hillis – Meltwich Hospitality Group Inc, VP of Revenue

Topic: Benefits of Buying a Franchise Business

These events always fill up fast so don’t wait!

Sign-up today: https://thebizex.com/blog/buy-business-canada

The session will be delivered via Zoom and full instructions will be provided by email.

The post Learn How To Buy A Business In Canada! Free Webinar Event appeared first on Business Exchange Blog.

Franchise Training Programs

Congratulations! You have been granted the right to own a franchise. One of the first things that you will be doing as a new franchisee is to begin the training process. The franchisor’s training program is the foundation of a successful operation and is usually mandatory for the franchisee. Successful franchising is all about consistency after all. The level of support and training should encompass all aspects of running the franchise business. The type of training, duration of the training and many other factors will vary depending on the industry and brand.

Here are some typical examples of the type of training you should receive.

• Initial site selection & buildout
• Operating standards and procedures
• Technical operations for providing the services or product
• Sales and merchandising, brand standards training
• Recruitment, training, management, and retention of employees
• Marketing, advertising, and public relations.
• Managing and controlling finances
• Business administration working with approved suppliers
• Operating the point-of-sale (POS) system

It’s important to consider that there will be ongoing training provided as well as the initial training. Ongoing training is very important, as business processes, products, expansion, and other factors may occur when operating your franchise. 

Franchise Operation Manuals

A franchise’s operation manuals define and provide all of the details of the proven business model to the franchisee. Depending on how big the franchise is, there may be a series of manuals.

Below are some typical examples of what an operation manual will cover:

• An overview of the company and its mission statement, vision, and values
• Clear roles and expectations for the franchisee and franchisor
• Service procedures – for example, recipes for restaurants
• How to receive and rotate stock
• Opening and closing procedures
• Detailed job descriptions for staff
• How to hire, train and lead staff
• Detailed job descriptions
• Administration, accounting and reporting requirements
• Supplier contracts and purchasing procedures
• Proper use of trademarks and branding procedures
• List of contacts

Franchise Operation Manuals

A franchise’s operation manuals define and provide all of the details of the proven business model to the franchisee. Depending on how big the franchise is, there may be a series of manuals.

Below are some typical examples of what an operation manual will cover

• An overview of the company and its mission statement, vision, and values
• Clear roles and expectations for the franchisee and franchisor
• Service procedures – for example, recipes for restaurants
• How to receive and rotate stock
• Opening and closing procedures
• Detailed job descriptions for staff
• How to hire, train and lead staff
• Detailed job descriptions
• Administration, accounting and reporting requirements
• Supplier contracts and purchasing procedures
• Proper use of trademarks and branding procedures
• List of contacts

Franchise Advisory Councils

A FAC (franchise advisory council) is a group of established franchisees who meet with the executives of the franchise. The purpose of having a FAC, is to communicate important concerns, opportunities and recommend ways to improve the whole franchise experience. Franchise Advisory Councils are important for the purpose of improving the system-wide franchise process.

Other Support

As mentioned earlier, the type of support the franchisee receives will differ between industries and brands. The main goal when developing a franchise system for the franchisee is to ensure that the franchisee will operate their franchise as successful as possible.

Typical types of support include:

• Annual reviews and audits
• Conferences and regional meetings
• Business planning sessions
• Online discussion forums
• Business coaching calls
• Evolving customer relationship management software
• Centralized call centre
• Shared brand advertising management Website development and maintenance
• Research and development

Questions You Should Ask

Now that you have an overview of the type of support your franchisor should be providing you with, here are some questions to consider before officially starting your franchise.

1. What happens if the franchisor doesn’t provide any of the items listed above?
2. What is the franchising fee?
3. Where are the franchise locations?
4. Does the franchisor provide field support?
5. Are we protected with real estate territorial protection?
6. What happens if training is never completed or initiated?
7. Is there an adequate amount of support and training provided for me to run my business successfully?
8. Is there ongoing support provided?

Visit Business Exchange for 1000s of Franchise Opportunities 

The post Franchise Support: Things to consider before buying a franchise appeared first on Business Exchange Blog.

Usually, there are three options for a novice entrepreneur, one option is to buy a business, another option is to create a start-up business, and three, invest in a franchise and be a part of a recognizable brand. 

10 Things You Need to Know as a Successful Franchisee

Choose a Franchise that Matches your Personality

Think before you act is the key takeaway here, you’ve finally taken the leap of faith and decided to be your own boss, why would you choose a business that you are not passionate about? Ensure the industry you’re about to get into truly reflects your personality and passion.

What are Franchise & Royalty Fees?

The difference between franchise fees and royalty fees is that the former is a one-time fee charged by the franchisor when a franchisee is opening a franchise. The fee is determined based on how long the franchisor will need to train the franchisee, to get the business up and running and learning the entire business concept.

In contrast, the royalty fee is an ongoing fee paid to the franchisor by the franchisee, it is typically calculated based on the gross revenue of the business, and royalty fees are usually paid monthly rather than biweekly. Generally speaking, royalty fees range from 5-6%.

A business that won’t Break Your Bank

Franchisors in the franchise industry do not want to discourage prospective franchisees from opening new locations, so they come up with affordable pricing.

Choose a Well Known Brand As Your Franchise Opportunity

A well-known brand saves you the headache of establishing brand awareness and residual customer base. When you purchase the name of a well-known enterprise that offers amazing product or services, you are acquiring all the success that comes with it.

Get Assistance in Getting a Prime Location

When you work with an experienced franchisor, they have the expertise in choosing a prime location for your business. For example, they will not pick locations where the population is low and rural. On the other hand, they will pick secured and protected territories for their franchisees. Some companies will even go the extra mile and shield their franchisees from competing businesses. Therefore, these practices in a sustainable franchise system will ensure entrepreneurs as successful franchisees.

Franchisors have experts to help you lock down a prime location that will benefit your business. That said, when making your decision of which franchise to invest in, it would be a good idea to pick a franchise that provides Site Selection Assistance.

Financial Assistance from Franchisors

If you were to start a small business on your own or purchase one, being able to obtain a bank loan is lower if you have a business ideal that’s going to fail. On the flip side, if you want to get a loan for a franchised brand, then it would be easier. Banks are more opened to lending money to franchisees because they know the business will succeed.

A Complete Support Network

One of the biggest reasons why businesses fail is incompetent management and ineffective operation. When you run a business solely on your own, all cards are on the table, finances, day-to-day operations, marketing efforts, customer service, and logistics. It is simply not feasible for one individual to handle all aspects of the business. Since it’s easier to rely on a large support network that will have dedicated staff to help you with everything you need, many entrepreneurs choose to franchise business rather than start their own.

Price Negotiation Perks

When you are under the umbrella of a large franchisor, you don’t need to worry about spending too much on supplies and inventory capital; suppliers reserve their best deals for reliable companies that offer residual income and have been in partnership with them for a long time. Therefore, you might be allocating too much of your budget on supplies when you could save that budget for something else. 

When you become a franchisee, your franchisor’s reputation and relationship with suppliers will suddenly change the dynamics because now you have access to cheaper and more affordable supplies.

Improved Valuation

Owning a franchise equates to faster growth, evolving organizational structures, and increased profitability.

Industry-Leading Approach

As a future franchisee, you need to pick a franchise that is invested in both their future and your future. Choose a franchise that is pushing the envelope and developing innovative ways to flourish.

Franchise 101: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Only Researching One Franchise

You might be very inclined and tempted to say Yes to the first franchise you find and want to invest in, but how would you know what else is out there unless you look the research?

Buying a Franchise without Hiring a Lawyer

Don’t forget to consult a lawyer when it comes to reading and understanding the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). An experienced franchise lawyer is able to spot out any red flags in the FDD.

Choosing Passion Brands Only

You’ve decided to choose a franchise that you believe in and are passionate about, but don’t franchise it simply because you like the brand. Ensure that the brand is healthy and will offer constant revenue streams.

High Expectations from the Franchisor

Sometimes, franchisees get too dependent on the franchisor because they get used to receiving training and help. But once they are on their own, they may not know what to do.

Continuous Marketing & Advertising Effort 

Don’t get too complacent on your marketing effort, just because you got your first taste of success it doesn’t stop there. Continue to invest time and money into marketing your business. The hardest part of being a franchisee is to attract and retain new clientele.

Unclear about the Future

Vision is the ultimate cornerstone for an entrepreneur’s success, always have a plan for the future of your business. Go big and go strong, believe in it until you achieve it.

Not Talking to Existing Franchisees

Existing and previous franchisees can offer useful insights and tips on how to successfully run the franchise business. Since they have been doing it for a while, they would be a resource to have.

Don’t Assume and Jump to Conclusions

Don’t assume you know everything and jumping to conclusions, before you make any big decisions, make sure you have data, and research to back it up.

Thinking Bigger is Better

Some franchisees think that the more locations a franchisor have, the more successful they might be. This is not always true.

Always have an Exit Strategy

Like any other business, things may not always go the way we want it to be. Having a backup plan and exit strategy saves you stress and money should things fail.

About The Business Exchange

Established in 1998, The Business Exchange specializes in lead generation in the franchise and business opportunity industry, in print and online. Call us today at 1-877-337-1188 to learn more about our Franchise for Sale listings in Canada and the United States and Request a Quote!

The post Franchise 101: How to Be a Successful Franchisee appeared first on Business Exchange Blog.