Are you considering becoming a franchise owner in Canada? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 30 best franchises in Canada for 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, our comprehensive guide can help you find the best franchise opportunity to fit your interests and investment level.
However, before investing in a franchise, it’s important to research various opportunities, consider your finances and available financing options, carefully read the franchise agreement, talk to current and former franchisees, and consider ongoing costs. Developing a detailed business plan can also help assess the viability of the opportunity and ensure a clear path to success.
Investing in a franchise can be a lucrative opportunity, but it’s important to carefully consider your options and do your due diligence before making a decision. Following is the list of the 30 best franchises in Canada for 2023.
1. Tim Hortons
Tim Hortons is a famous Canadian multinational fast-food chain that is known for its coffee, donuts, and sandwiches. Founded in 1964 by NHL hockey player Tim Horton and businessman Ron Joyce, the chain has since become a beloved staple in Canadian culture with over 4,000 locations worldwide. The chain’s simple yet satisfying menu has earned a loyal fan base, and the company is often associated with Canada’s national identity.
To buy a Tim Hortons franchise in Canada in 2023, you need to have a minimum net worth of CA $1500,000 and a minimum of CA $50,000 on hand. Apart from this if you take into account other factors such as setup costs, the cost of the training program, and the cost of leasing a property, etc. you are looking at an initial investment of $959,000 – $2,162,500.
Number of Locations in Canada: 4300+
Minimum Cash down: $50,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $1,500,000
Total Investment: $959,000 – $2,162,500.
2. Boston Pizza
Boston Pizza is a Canadian restaurant and one of the best franchises in Canada. It has been in operation since 1964. Boston Pizza has become a household name for its delicious pizzas, pasta, and other mouth-watering dishes. As a franchise, Boston Pizza offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to own and operate their successful restaurant while benefiting from the support and resources of an established brand.
Boston Pizza has over 400 locations in Canada. To start a Boston Pizza franchise, you will need an initial investment of $1.5 million to $2.7 million. Before considering buying a franchise, see if you have a minimum net worth of $1,500,000 and you should have the same amount in liquid assets.
Number of Locations in Canada: 400+
Minimum Cash down: 35% of the investment level
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $1,500,000
Total Investment: $1.5 million to $2.7 million
3. A&W
A&W is a fast-food chain that has been serving delicious burgers and root beer for more than a century. The company was founded in 1919 and quickly became one of the most popular places to eat in the United States and Canada.
Today, A&W has over 1,000 locations across Canada, making it one of the largest and most successful fast-food franchises in the country. To buy an A&W franchise in Canada you need to have a minimum of $450,000 in unencumbered cash and the total investment can vary from $1.1 million to $1.7 million. The total investment can vary based on the kind of shop you want.
Number of Locations in Canada: 1000+
Minimum Cash down: $450,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $1,000,000
Total Investment: $1.1 million to $1.7 million
4. Thai Express
Thai Express is a well-known franchise in Canada that specializes in providing authentic and delicious Thai cuisine. With its origins in Montreal, Quebec, Thai Express has grown to become one of the most popular fast-casual restaurant chains across Canada, with over 300 locations nationwide.
With comprehensive training and support provided by the franchise, owning a Thai Express restaurant can be a great way to enter the thriving food industry in Canada. Thai Express has a franchise fee of $30,000 and requires an investment of $230,000 to $375,000. If you are considering applying for a Thai Express franchise you can get in touch with them by filling out an application form available on the franchising page of their website.
Number of Locations in Canada: 300+
Minimum Cash down: $150,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $400,000
Total Investment: $230,000 to $375,000
5. St-Hubert
St-Hubert has earned quite a reputation in Canada with its mouth-watering rotisserie chicken and classic Quebecois cuisine. Founded in 1951 in Montreal, Quebec, St-Hubert has since expanded across Canada, with over 100 locations nationwide.
With its loyal customer base and commitment to quality food and service, St-Hubert is a popular choice for those looking to enter the restaurant industry in Canada. Franchisees receive comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure the success of their restaurants.
St-Hubert’s initial franchise fee ranges from $50,000 to $60,000 and the total initial investment required varies from $1.2 million to $2.9 million depending on the type of restaurant you want to open. If you are interested in becoming a franchisee, the process is described in detail on their franchise page.
6. Tite Frette
Founded by Karl Magnone and Jérémie Poupart in 2018, Tite Frette is a Quebec-based company specializing in microbreweries. The total reliance on local products in the manufacturing process and the unique style (a mix of the modern and vintage atmosphere) of Tite Frette stores set it apart in the microbrewery world. Tite Frette soon switched to the franchise model and now has 28 boutique shops.
As a franchise, Tite Frette offers entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to enter the microbrewery industry. Along with advanced training, and access to exclusive products, the franchise provides access to quality information and other resources to ensure the success of your business.
Tite Frette charges a franchise fee of $25,000 and requires you to have at least $100,000 in liquid assets. The total initial investment required to buy and start operations in a Tite Frette franchise starts from $150,000. You can learn more about the procedure of becoming a Tite Frette franchisee on their franchising page.
Number of Locations in Canada: 28
Minimum Cash down: $100,000
Total Investment: $150,000
7. MacEwen
MacEwen is a well-established franchise in Canada that provides a range of services and products related to fuel, convenience, and home heating. The franchise was founded in 1976 and With a reputation for excellence in the industry, MacEwen is a popular choice for both customers and franchisees looking for a successful business opportunity
MacEwn has over 130 locations across Ontario, Quebec, and the Atlantic provinces.
To buy a MacEwen franchise, The total initial investment that you need to acquire and run MacEwen is $90,000 to $150,000 dollars and the cash that you will need on hand is $50,000.
Number of Locations in Canada: 130+
Minimum Cash down: $50,000
Total Investment: $90,000 to $150,000
8. Mr. Lube
Mr. Lube is a well-known Canadian franchise that specializes in automotive maintenance services. Founded in 1976, Mr. Lube offers entrepreneurs a proven business model with a strong track record of success, making it an attractive investment opportunity for those looking to enter the automotive maintenance industry
Mr. Lube has over 170 locations across the country. To buy a franchise of Mr. Lube, you will need liquid assets of $600,000 to $800,000 and the estimated total investment will be $1,800,000 to $2,200,000.
Number of Locations in Canada: 170
Minimum Cash down: $600,000 – $800,000
Total Investment: $1,800,000 to $2,200,000
9. 7-Eleven
7-Eleven is a convenience store franchise that has become a household name across Canada. 7-Eleven is known for its convenience, quality products, and affordability.
7-Eleven has over 600 locations throughout the country, To buy a 7-Eleven franchise you need to have $50,000 to $150,000 cash on hand and will need to make a total investment of $37,200 to $1,635,200.
Number of Locations in Canada: 600+
Minimum Cash down: $50,000-$150,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $150,000
Total Investment: $1,635,200
10. Booster Juice
Booster Juice is a popular smoothie and juice franchise that was founded in Canada in 1999. Booster Juice is known for its healthy and delicious smoothie options, which have made it a favorite among health-conscious consumers.
Today, Booster Juice has over 400 locations nationwide. The franchise offers a low-cost entry point for franchisees, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs. The turnkey costs required to acquire a franchise of Booster Juice range from $325,000 to $375,000 including an initial franchise fee of $30,000.
Number of Locations in Canada: 400+
Minimum Cash down: $130,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $500,000
Total Investment: $325,000 to $375,000
11. M&M Food Market
M&M Food Market is a Canadian franchise that specializes in providing high-quality, pre-packaged frozen food products to customers. The franchise has been in operation for over 40 years and has over 300 locations throughout Canada. M&M Food Market is known for its commitment to quality and convenience, making it a popular option for busy families looking for healthy meal options.
M&M Food Market has a franchise fee of $30,000, a liquid capital requirement of $150,000, and the total estimated initial investment needed is $320,000.
Number of Locations in Canada: 300+
Minimum Cash down: $150,000
Total Investment: $320,000
12. Mary Brown’s Chicken
Mary Brown’s Chicken is a Canadian quick-service restaurant franchise that specializes in providing customers with high-quality, fresh chicken dishes. The franchise has been in operation since 1969 and has over 230 locations throughout Canada. Mary Brown’s Chicken is known for its commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, which has made it a favorite among Canadian consumers.
Mary Brown’s Chicken requires franchisees to possess at least $300,000 in liquid capital and on top of that the franchisees must have $50,000 to be used as working capital. The franchise fee is $30,000 and the total startup cost can range from $500,000 to over one million dollars.
Number of Locations in Canada: 230+
Minimum Cash down: $300,000
Other financial requirements: $50,000 as Working Capital
Total Investment: $500,000
13. Petro-Canada
Petro-Canada is a Canadian retail and wholesale marketing brand of Suncor Energy, one of Canada’s leading integrated energy companies. Petro-Canada franchises offer a range of fuel and convenience products and services, including gas, car wash, snacks, and convenience items. The company operates over 1,500 retail and wholesale locations across Canada.
The total initial investment needed to start and run a Petro-Canada franchise can vary depending on the size of the operations. However, the minimum amount of the total initial investment that the company expects the franchisees to make is $30,000 for the retailer & $1.5million to $6 million for Petro Canada Gas Station Owner
Number of Locations in Canada: 1500+
Minimum Cash down: N/A
Total Investment: $30,000 for the retail store & $1.5 million to $6 million for a gas station
14. Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen is an American chain of soft-serve ice cream and fast-food restaurants. Dairy Queen has over 4,000 locations worldwide, including over 600 locations in Canada. Dairy Queen’s menu includes soft-serve ice cream, hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, and other fast-food items.
To buy a Dairy Queen franchise the liquid capital requirement set by the company is $400,000 and you need to have a net worth of at least $750,000. The total initial investment required can range from $1,461,200 to $2,462,990.
Number of Locations in Canada: 714+
Minimum Cash down: $400,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $750,000 per unit
Total Investment: $1,461,200 to $2,462,990.
15. McDonald’s
McDonald’s is a multinational fast-food restaurant chain that originated in the United States. McDonald’s has over 38,000 locations worldwide, including over 1,400 locations in Canada. The franchise’s menu includes hamburgers, chicken, breakfast items, and other fast-food options.
McDonald’s charges its franchisees a one-time license fee of $45,000 for a 20-year agreement. The company requires you to have $700,000 in unencumbered personal resources and the total initial investment required to run a McDonald’s franchise ranges from one million to two million dollars.
Number of Locations in Canada: 1400+
Minimum Cash down: $700,000
Total Investment: $1 million
16. Taco Bell
Taco Bell is a Tex-Mex fast-food restaurant chain that originated in the United States. Taco Bell has over 7,000 locations worldwide, including over 170 locations in Canada. The franchise’s menu includes tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and other Tex-Mex options.
The estimated total investment to start a Taco Bell franchise can range from $1 million to $1.6 million and the initial franchise fee is $51,200. You also need to have at least $750,000 worth of cash on hand.
Number of Locations in Canada: 170+
Minimum Cash down: $750,000
Total Investment: $1 million – $1.6 million
17. Burger King
Burger King is an American multinational fast-food restaurant chain. Burger King has over 18,000 locations worldwide, including over 300 locations in Canada. The franchise’s menu includes hamburgers, chicken, breakfast items, and other fast-food options.
Burger King charges a flat franchise fee of $50,000. To open a Burger King franchise, you will need to have $500,000 in liquid assets and a net worth of $1,000,000. The total initial investment needed to run and operate a Burger King franchise can range from $1.4 million to $2.5 million.
Number of Locations in Canada: 300+
Minimum Cash down: $500,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $1m
Total Investment: $1.4 million to $2.5 million
18. Liberty Tax Service
Liberty Tax Service is a tax preparation franchise company that offers tax preparation and related services in Canada and the United States. Liberty Tax Service has over 3,000 locations worldwide, including over 200 locations in Canada. The franchise offers income tax preparation, tax planning, and other related services.
The liquid capital requirement to buy a franchise of Liberty Tax Service is $50,000 and the total initial investment that you will need to make is about $58,700 to $71,900. The franchise fee of a Liberty Tax Service franchise reaches up to $40,000.
Number of Locations in Canada: 200+
Minimum Cash down: $50,000
Total Investment: $58,700 to $71,900
19. Fix Auto
Fix Auto is a Canadian franchise company that specializes in auto collision repair services. Fix Auto has over 700 locations worldwide, including over 270 locations in Canada. The franchise offers a wide range of collision repair services, including bodywork, paintwork, and frame straightening.
The franchise fee for Fix Auto reaches up to $20,000 and you will need to make a total initial investment of $157,700 to $3,069,000. It is best to have $50,000 to $250,000 cash on hand as working capital.
Number of Locations in Canada: 270+
Minimum Cash down: $50,000 – $250,000
Total Investment: $157,700 to $3,069,000
20. Country Style Food
Country Style Food is a Canadian chain of coffee shops and restaurants. Country Style Food has over 250 locations throughout Canada. The franchise’s menu includes coffee, baked goods, breakfast items, sandwiches, soups, and salads.
The estimated total initial investment needed to run a Country Style Food franchise can range from $230,000 to $360,000 depending on the size and condition of the premises. The requirement for unencumbered cash also varies with the total investment. The franchise fee, however, is $35,000.
Number of Locations in Canada: 250+
Minimum Cash down: N/A
Total Investment: $230,000 to $360,000
21. Second Cup
Started as a kiosk in a shopping mall in 1975, Second Cup is now one of the leading specialty coffee retailers in Canada as well as internationally. It follows a franchise business model and has 244 stores spread across the country. Buying a Second Cup franchise can certainly be a worthy investment.
Second Cup charges a franchise fee of $40,000 and requires you to have at least $120,000 to $150,000 in liquid assets. The initial investment you will need to make to start operations in your Second Cup franchise can range from $550,000 to $650,000. You can find out more information by filling out a form on their franchising page.
Number of Locations in Canada: 244
Minimum Cash down: $120,000 – $150,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $450,000
Total Investment: $550,000 to $650,000
22. Action-Coach
ActionCOACH is a global business coaching franchise with locations in over 80 countries, including Canada. The franchise offers coaching services to small and medium-sized businesses to help them achieve growth and success.
To acquire and run an Action-Coach franchise you will need to have $49,000 to $225,000 for the franchising fee. The total initial investment can range from $100,000 – $416,820
Number of Locations in Canada: 30+
Minimum Cash down: $49,000 – $225,000
Total Investment: $100,000 – $416,820
23. Canadian Tire
Canadian Tire is a Canadian retail company that sells a wide range of automotive, hardware, sports, and leisure products. Canadian Tire operates over 270 franchise locations across Canada and is one of the country’s largest retailers.
To start a Canadian Tire franchise a minimum of $125,000 is required in terms of the total initial investment. For further details, you can send a query to Canadian Tire Corporation, Ltd.
Number of Locations in Canada: 270+
Minimum Cash down: N/A
Total Investment: $125,000
24. The Burger’s Priest
The Burger’s Priest started as a 350-square-foot humble burger joint on Toronto’s Queen Street East in 2010 and has gained well-deserved fame among burger lovers ever since. The restaurant is currently operating in 30 different locations in Canada. The Burger’s Priest is a part of the Recipe family of brands which supports over 200 restaurants. Becoming Burger’s Priest’s franchisee will mean that you can benefit from the economies of scale.
To become a Burger’s Priest franchisee, you will require $160,000 to $240,000 in liquid cash. The total initial investment can vary from $400,000 to $600,000. To find out more about the current franchising opportunities available with The Burger’s Priest, visit their website.
Number of Locations in Canada: 30+
Minimum Cash down: $160,000 to $240,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $480,000-$720,000
Total Investment: $400,000 to $600,000
25. Clintar
Clintar is a Canadian landscape and property maintenance franchise company that offers a wide range of services, including lawn care, snow removal, and landscape design and installation. Clintar has over 30 locations across Canada and has been in business for over 40 years.
Clintar has a franchise fee of $40,000 and the total investment needed to set up and start operations in a Clintar franchise can range from $475,000 to $575,000. The liquid capital you need to have to open a Clintar franchise is $50,000.
Number of Locations in Canada: 30+
Minimum Cash down: $50,000
Total Investment: $475,000 to $575,000
26. Pet Valu
Pet Valu is a leading pet specialty retailer in Canada, providing pet owners with a wide selection of pet products and services. With over 600 locations across the country, Pet Valu has established itself as a trusted source for pet owners to find everything they need for their furry friends.
Pet Valu has an initial franchise fee of $25,000 that you need to pay to get your license as a franchisee. Apart from that you will need to make a total initial investment of $267,300 to $500,300 to get the franchise up and running.
Number of Locations in Canada: 600+
Minimum Cash down: $150,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $400,000
Total Investment: $267,300 to $500,300
27. Circle K
Circle K is a global convenience store chain that has established a strong presence in Canada with its extensive network of franchises. Offering a wide range of products and services, Circle K has become a popular destination for consumers looking for a one-stop shop for all their needs.
With its emphasis on quality and customer service, Circle K has earned a reputation as one of the best franchises in Canada. It has an initial franchise fee of $25,000 and a liquid cash requirement of $100,000. The total initial investment can vary from $185,500 to $1,601,500.
Number of Locations in Canada: 2200+
Minimum Cash down: $100,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $500,000
Total Investment: $185,500 to $1,601,500.
28. Mr. Sub
Established in 1968, Mr. Sub has grown to become one of the most recognizable sandwich chains in Canada. With over 300 locations across the country, the franchise has a strong presence in both urban and suburban areas, making it a popular option for those looking for a quick, satisfying meal.
To open a Mr. Sub franchise in Canada, you will need a total initial investment of $200,000 to $350,000 including the franchise fee of $15,000. The liquid cash requirement for becoming a Mr. Sub franchisee is $60,000. If you’re considering becoming a franchise owner in Canada, it’s important to know that it can require a significant investment. However, there are various financing options available to help you achieve your goals.
Number of Locations in Canada: 300+
Minimum Cash down: $60,000
Total Investment: $200,000 to $350,000
29. Freshii
Founded in 2005 by Mathew Corrin, Freshii is a fast-casual restaurant franchise with a nutrition-led menu that serves salads, wraps, soups, smoothies, juices, etc. In 2018, Freshii was awarded the title of the No. 1 brand in Fast Casual magazine. The restaurant operates globally in more than 400 locations spread across 85+ cities.
As a franchise, it offers ongoing corporate and field support to all franchisees, as well as extensive training to enable the franchisees to run the operations smoothly. To open a Freshii restaurant you need to have a net worth of at least $300,000 and at least $150,000 in liquid cash. The total investment you will need can range from $200,000 to $470,500. You can find additional information about buying a Freshii franchise on their website.
Number of Locations in Canada: 400+ worldwide
Minimum Cash down: $150,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $300,000
Total Investment: $200,000 to $470,500
30. 1-800-GOT-JUNK?
Founded in 1989 by Brian Scudamore, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? started operations as “The Rubbish Boys” in Vancouver, Canada. Brian changed the name of the company to 1-800-GOT-JUNK? and built the brand. Today the company is operating more than 160 franchises in North America.
1-800-GOT-JUNK? has limited the sale of its franchises, but if you are interested in buying one you can fill out and submit a form here to learn more about franchise opportunities and the franchise cost.
Number of Locations in Canada: 160+
Minimum Cash down: $30,000 – $50,000
Other financial requirements: minimum net worth of $150,000
Total Investment: $209,800 – $255,680
If you’re considering becoming a franchise owner in Canada, it’s important to know that it can require a significant investment. However, there are various financing options available to help you achieve your goals.
Financing options for buying a franchise in Canada
Business Loans
Applying for a business loan from a bank or other financial institution is a common way to finance a franchise investment. Business loans typically come with a fixed interest rate and repayment schedule and may require collateral. The terms and conditions can vary from bank to bank and it might help to have a business account in a bank that provides the most favorable conditions for a business loan. When it comes to getting business loans keeping a good credit score is very important. It not only makes it easier to get a business credit card but can also help you secure loans in the future more easily.
Franchisor Financing
Some franchisors offer financing options to their franchisees, which can include deferred payments or lower interest rates. These options may be easier to qualify for than traditional business loans.
Government Programs
The Canadian government offers various programs to support small businesses and franchise owners, including loans, grants, and tax incentives. These programs are available at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels and can help reduce the costs of starting or expanding a franchise.
Personal Savings
Financing your franchise investment through personal savings or investments can allow you to maintain full control over your business and avoid interest payments. However, this option may require a significant amount of upfront capital.
Equity Crowdfunding
Equity crowdfunding is a popular way to raise funds for a variety of business ventures, including franchise ownership. Through equity crowdfunding, you can raise funds from a large number of individuals in exchange for equity in your business.
It’s important to carefully consider all of your financing options and choose the one that best suits your individual circumstances. A financial advisor or franchise consultant can help you make an informed decision about financing your franchise investment.
FAQs About Franchises in Canada
What is a franchise?
In the franchise business model, a franchisee acquires the right to use a company’s name, products, and operational procedures. While running their own business, the franchisee is bound to follow the franchisor’s guidelines and regulations.
How to buy a franchise in Canada?
To buy a franchise in Canada, individuals can research various franchisors to find a business that suits their interests and goals. Once a suitable franchise opportunity is found, potential franchisees should review the franchise disclosure document (FDD) provided by the franchisor, consult with a lawyer and accountant, and conduct due diligence before signing a franchise agreement.
Can a franchise be taken away from its owner in Canada?
Yes, a franchisor can terminate a franchise agreement and take away a franchise from its owner in Canada if the franchisee is in breach of the agreement, has not complied with the franchisor’s standards or requirements, or engages in illegal or unethical conduct.
How much can you make owning a franchise in Canada?
The income potential of owning a franchise in Canada varies depending on the type of business, location, and other factors. According to a report by the Canadian Franchise Association, the average gross revenue for franchises in Canada was $1.45 million in 2020. However, actual earnings can be lower or higher depending on the specific franchise.
How to get out of a franchise agreement in Canada?
Getting out of a franchise agreement in Canada can be complicated and depends on the terms outlined in the agreement and the applicable provincial franchise legislation. In some cases, a franchisee may have the right to terminate the agreement by giving notice to the franchisor, while in other cases, a franchisee may need to negotiate a buyout or seek legal action.
