In a recent interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Mark Mele, Paris Baguette’s Chief Development Officer, discussed the brand’s growth strategy in Ontario. Mele emphasized tailoring products to resonate with local tastes and highlighted the support provided to franchisees. He also addressed challenges faced in the Ontario market, sharing how they were overcome to ensure successful expansion. Mark concluded by outlining his long-term vision for Paris Baguette in the region and its integration into the local culinary landscape.
Leadership experience building and guiding franchise brands. Mele has achieved the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) designation from the Institute of Certified Franchise Executives (ICFE) through the International Franchise Association.
An accomplished corporate franchise sales and development strategist, his vision and expertise in business performance have driven notable franchise brands such as Paris Baguette America, Century 21 Real Estate Corporation, Country Inns & Suites by Carlson, Retro Fitness, Kumon North America and Huntington Learning Centers. Mele has achieved exciting company turnarounds and is recognized for his success in growing franchise brands.
In addition to Mark Mele’s exceptional track record in franchise development, he is also known for his ability to create and implement positive change in the areas of franchise operations and franchisee support. His franchise achievements have been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine, Inc. Magazine, as well as other business media. Mele is a member of the International Franchise Association (IFA) and is actively involved in an advisory capacity with start-up franchise companies.
How will you describe your journey as an accomplished corporate franchise development strategist, recognized for growing and building franchise brands successfully?
My journey has spanned 38 years in franchise development. Always focusing on what’s best for the franchisor, the Franchisee, and the guest. I’ve enjoyed the brands that I’ve represented over the years, and especially Paris Baguette, as it has quite the following throughout the world. It’s very exciting.
Can you share your insights on the current franchising landscape in the province and how Paris Baguette is positioning itself to take advantage of emerging opportunities?
Paris Baguette is primed for expansion throughout Canada, and especially Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. We like the population increases over the last five years in those provinces, and look forward to meeting the demand of the increased population, by opening up new Paris Baguette Cafés.
How is Paris Baguette tailoring its products or business model to resonate with the Ontario market, and what specific growth strategies are you employing in the region?
Paris Baguette’s franchise offering is very consistent for North America. What we developed before the US market, seems to be resonating in Toronto. The products are incredible, and the franchise structure, that includes the facility, lends itself to the Canadian market. Prospective Franchisees have seen the success with our first opening in Ontario, and are quickly moving towards the brand, and completing due diligence towards signing franchise agreements. The activity is very robust at this point.
What are some of the specific hurdles you’ve encountered in Ontario, and how have you overcome them to ensure a successful growth trajectory for Paris Baguette?
The only hurdles that we’ve encountered thus far, are dealing with the slow permitting and approvals by the various towns. Everything else seems to be on point.
How does Paris Baguette support its franchisees in Ontario, and what qualities are you looking for in potential franchise partners to ensure the brand’s values and quality are upheld?
Yes, Paris Baguette supports its franchisees throughout Canada, as we have staff living in Canada to ensure the brands success. Post opening, franchisees receive ongoing support, not only from an operational perspective, but from an ongoing training standpoint as well. We treat our franchisees incredibly well, and also the guests that frequent the cafés.
With the expansion of Paris Baguette across Ontario, what long-term vision do you have for the brand in this region? How do you plan to engage with the local community to ensure that the franchise becomes an integral part of the culinary landscape?
Paris Baguette is an international brand that was born in 1988. Since that time we have developed quite a following throughout the world. We have high quality products that the guest keeps returning to the café for. They love the freshness of the product that’s baked fresh daily. Going forward throughout Canada, we will deliver consistency with products, as well as a beautifully designed café. The products and the design will engage the local community, and they, too, will become fans of Paris Baguette going forward.
