With over 78,000 franchises in Canada, the franchise industry accounts for 10 percent of Canada’s gross domestic product, generating more than $90 billion in sales every year and employing more than a million Canadians. About 250 franchising leaders and support-service professionals are expected to attend the industry’s premier event of the year to share best practices, network and celebrate the country’s top franchise systems.
The winner of the industry’s highest honour, the CFA Award of Excellence, will be announced at an award ceremony on Monday, May 5. The selection process is based on a comprehensive survey of franchisor performance by franchisees across Canada. Thirty-two companies are vying for the award, more than any other year. That same evening, the convention will recognize the very best in franchise advertising at the Frankie Awards Gala Dinner.
On Tuesday, May 6, CFA acknowledges individuals with CFA Recognition Awards for their contributions to the franchise community at the Recognition Award Luncheon. New this year, CFA will honour a franchise professional for his/her outstanding achievement and lifelong contribution to Canadian franchising through the CFA Lifetime Achievement Award.
The convention will include three keynote speakers. On Monday May 4 at 9 a.m., convention attendees will listen to a fascinating address by Mac Voisin, award-winning Founder and CEO of M&M Meat Shops, who will discuss the evolution of the M&M Meat Shop brand and the challenges encountered in the international expansion of their franchise system. On Tuesday May 5 at 9:30 a.m., Mike Cordova, CEO of Boston Pizza International, will examine the challenges and opportunities for franchise systems and explore the three pillars of Boston Pizza’s success. Steve Greenbaum, Co-founder and CEO of PostNet, delivers the closing address on Tuesday May 6 at 2:30 p.m. He will provide insights on latest trends in North American and international franchising and will offer expert advice on how franchise systems can utilize their trade associations as an incredible asset.
CFA’s National Convention will have 16 concurrent workshops led by leading experts in the franchise industry who will speak on topics including mentorship, public relations, international expansion, finance and refranchising. A selection of over 13 Roundtable Discussions on Monday May 5 will offer invaluable insights into a number of key business issues.
About the Canadian Franchise Association
With more than 430 corporate members nation-wide, representing many of Canada’s best-known brands, the Canadian Franchise Association is the National Voice for Canadian Franchising and works with all levels of government to ensure the development of industry-made solutions. CFA promotes ethical franchising and educates Canadians about franchising, specific franchise opportunities and proper due diligence. For more information, visit www.cfa.ca.
