The 2026 CFA forecast predicts franchising will contribute almost $150 billion to Canadian GDP by the end of the year.
It was only five years ago that the industry was estimated to be worth $96 billion. Within those five years the sector weathered the storms of the COVID,19 pandemic, climbing interest rates, inflation and economic downturns. Yet the industry continued to grow.
If you are part of the Canadian franchising community this does not surprise you. The power of franchising is a resilient business model built on support and mutual collaboration. When times become difficult franchises remain strong.
As the voice of franchising in Canada the CFA works to ensure that everyone from independent business owners who wish to live their entrepreneurial dreams to global brands seeking a Canadian foothold understands how powerful and necessary the franchising industry is and how it is flourishing in Canada.
True north, strong and franchising
There is much to celebrate in the Canadian franchise industry. As the Franchise Forecast report showed the sector remains the country’s 12th largest industry, employing nearly two million Canadians. Approximately 70 000 franchised small businesses operate from coast to coast to coast.
Canadians are eager entrepreneurs. Fifty,nine per cent of Canadians say they wanted to start their own business and surveys of prospective franchisees at the annual Franchise Canada show indicated that 60 per cent are looking to invest within the next year.
World Franchise Day in June demonstrated that Canadian franchising is making an impact on the world stage. Part of growing the franchising community is inviting new brands and systems into the country.
The CFA is engaged with franchise associations around the globe through work with the World Franchise Council and is committed to providing best,in,class education and resources to international franchises looking to expand into Canada.
The Expand Your Brand webinar programme connects interested franchisors with experts in areas such as franchise law, commercial real estate, government relations, franchise development and more. Each session also features insight from an experienced franchisor who has previously succeeded in the market. Canadian franchisors can also explore the Expand Your Brand Outside of Canada webinars to learn how to bring their successful business to the U.S., U.K. and other markets.
The upcoming Franchise Canada Show in Toronto will feature an International Pavilion of brands hoping to expand to Canadian territories and locations, providing an opportunity for new international brands to connect on the ground with prospective franchisees, master franchisees and area developers. It also offers a chance to meet the best and brightest of the industry and see what the Canadian franchising community represents.
Local community, global reach
If you are not yet part of the Canadian Franchise Association you are encouraged to contact the Membership team to learn about the community. The commitment to Growing Together® means the association is always working to make the franchise industry stronger through community, education, advocacy and brand awareness.
The Canadian franchising community is the second,largest in the world and continues to invite more participants; members are invited to get involved, volunteer, join a committee and help make a difference. As a power player on the global stage the association is leading the way.
Sherry McNeil is president and chief executive officer of the canadian franchise association. She has more than 25 years of experience in the franchise sector, working with franchisors and franchisees in consultancy and leadership roles. She has been named one of the world’s 100 most influential women in franchising and received the Social Greek 2026 franchise thought leader award.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 CFA forecast predicts franchising will add nearly $150 billion to Canadian GDP, reflecting significant growth in the sector.
- The Canadian franchise industry is resilient, having grown from $96 billion five years ago despite economic challenges.
- Franchising employs nearly two million Canadians and consists of approximately 70,000 small businesses across the country.
- The CFA engages with global franchise associations to educate and assist international brands seeking to enter the Canadian market.
- Members of the Canadian Franchise Association are encouraged to get involved and contribute to a strong and growing franchising community.
