Now in its second year, the definitive ranking of top franchise systems returns and here are the franchise systems defining Canada’s future.
Now in its second year, our Elite Franchise Top 100 Canada (EF100) has become a trusted benchmark for excellence across the country’s franchising sector. Built by our editorial team and informed by industry experts, the EF100 is designed to spotlight the franchise systems that are not only performing today, but actively shaping the future of Canadian business.
This year’s ranking arrives at a defining moment. Rising costs, labour constraints, and shifting consumer behaviours are reshaping how franchise systems grow and operate. The brands featured in the 2026 EF100 are the ones responding with clarity, confidence, and a long-term mindset, strengthening their networks while adapting to an increasingly complex business environment.
What excellence in franchising looks like in 2026
At Elite Franchise, we have always believed that true franchising excellence goes far beyond unit counts or short-term growth. Our EF100 focuses on substance, including the quality of franchisee support, strength of leadership, ability to innovate, and a clear commitment to building sustainable, future-ready systems.
Across this year’s list, we see franchisors investing deeply in their people, refining operational frameworks, and strengthening community engagement. These are brands prioritizing resilience and relevance, not just scale. From established national names to fast-rising challengers, the EF100 reflects the full scope of ambition and momentum driving Canadian franchising forward.
How we build the EF100
Our EF100 ranking is the result of a rigorous, independent assessment process guided by a panel of esteemed industry judges and partners. We evaluate each brand not only on past performance, but on their ability to evolve, support franchisees at every stage of growth, and demonstrate a credible roadmap for the future.
The EF100 top five for 2026
Leading this year’s ranking, our EF100 Top Five franchises for 2026 are:
- Pizza Pizza
- A&W Food Services of Canada
- McDonald’s Restaurants Canada
- Snap-on Tools Canada
- Boston Pizza
Together, these brands represent the strength, diversity, and leadership that define the Canadian franchise sector today.
“Earning a spot in the EF100 signals more than growth, it reflects credibility and commitment,” said Scott English, Founder and Global Brand Director of Elite Franchise. “Year after year, we see franchise systems raising the bar, supporting their franchisees in new ways, and building for sustainable, long-term success.”
As the program continues to evolve in 2026, we are introducing two new category awards, bringing the total number of EF100 accolades to 12, alongside our highly anticipated People’s Choice Award.
New for 2026:
- Highest Entry Award: Recognising franchise systems making their first appearance in the EF100 and demonstrating exceptional early impact.
- Rising Star of the Year: Awarded to the franchise system achieving the greatest upward movement in the rankings compared to the previous year.
These new categories allow us to recognize not only established leaders, but also emerging systems and standout growth stories shaping the future of Canadian franchising.
“Now in its second year, the EF100 continues to showcase the depth, ambition, and resilience of Canadian franchising,” added English. “Expanding the awards ensures we continue to reflect the full spectrum of excellence across the sector.”
Celebrating the industry together
We will officially unveil the EF100 Canada 2026 rankings at a live awards ceremony on March 26, 2026, at Toronto’s iconic Carlu. The event will bring together franchisors, franchisees, and industry leaders from across the country to celebrate excellence in innovation, sustainability, diversity, franchisee support, and more.
Elite Franchise subscribers will also be invited to vote for the People’s Choice Award, recognizing the franchise brand they believe best represents excellence in the sector. Full brand profiles and voting details will be available here.
With franchising playing an increasingly important role in Canada’s economy, the EF100 goes beyond rankings to highlight where the industry is headed and the brands leading the way.
