In the grandeur of the iconic Carlu in Toronto, Canada’s franchising leaders gathered for the Elite Franchise Top 100 (EF100) Canada 2026 Gala, marking the second year of what has quickly become a defining celebration of excellence in the sector.
Building on the momentum of its inaugural year, the EF100 Awards continue to set the benchmark for franchising in Canada, recognizing brands and individuals that exemplify performance, innovation, resilience, and meaningful community impact. This year’s event showcased a dynamic and competitive field, reflecting the strength and evolution of Canada’s franchise landscape.
As franchising continues to adapt to shifting economic conditions, consumer expectations, and operational realities, the EF100 stands as a powerful indicator of which systems are not only succeeding, but leading.
Scott English, Founder and Global Brand Director of Elite Franchise, reflected on the significance of the awards:
“Now in its second year, the EF100 has already become a meaningful benchmark for franchising in Canada. Earning a place, let alone an award, is a true reflection of the strength behind these brands. From innovation to franchisee support, this year’s winners demonstrate what it takes to build resilient, future-focused systems.”
2026 EF100 award winners
With the introduction of two new award categories in 2026, the EF100 now recognizes 12 standout achievements, including the highly anticipated People’s Choice Award, further expanding its ability to spotlight both established leaders and rising stars.
- EF100 No.1 Overall Winner: Pizza Pizza, recognized as the top franchise in Canada, achieving the highest score across EF100’s judging criteria and setting the national standard for franchise excellence.
- Exceptional Performance of the Year: Swiss Chalet, honouring the franchise system that demonstrated the most outstanding overall performance based on this year’s submissions.
- Franchisee Outstanding Achievement of the Year: Eric Giroux, EverLine Coatings, recognizing an exceptional franchisee whose journey reflects the transformative power of franchising and inspires others across the industry.
- Rising Star of the Year (New for 2026): Haystax Mortgage, awarded to the franchise system that achieved the most significant upward movement in the EF100 rankings year-over-year.
- Highest New Entry of the Year (New for 2026): Snap-on Tools, celebrating the highest-ranking franchise making its debut in the EF100.
- Sustainability of the Year: ServiceMaster Restore, recognized for combining strong commercial performance with a deep commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
- Diversity & Inclusion of the Year: Kekuli Cafe, honoured for demonstrating exceptional leadership in fostering diversity, inclusion, and cultural representation within its system and communities.
- Innovation of the Year: Thai Express, celebrating a franchise system that is redefining marketing, recruitment, and operational innovation through forward-thinking strategies.
- Community Builder of the Year: Senior Helpers, recognized for making a meaningful and measurable impact in the communities it serves.
- Emerging Franchisor of the Year: Let’s Get Moving, awarded to a rapidly growing franchisor setting new benchmarks across key business areas.
- People’s Choice Award: MR.SUB, selected by the public, this award reflects strong consumer and community support for a standout franchise brand.
Click here for a full list of 2026 EF100 winners.
A Platform for franchise leadership
As the EF100 Awards continue to grow in prominence, they provide a platform not only to celebrate achievement, but to highlight the individuals and systems shaping the future of franchising in Canada.
With expanded award categories and an increasingly competitive field, the EF100 reinforces its role as a trusted benchmark for excellence, offering insight and inspiration for entrepreneurs, franchisees, and industry leaders alike.
Submissions for the EF100 Canada 2027 will open on August 4, inviting the next wave of franchise brands to step forward and define the future of the industry.
