In this exclusive CanadianSME Small Business Magazine interview, Ryan Picklyk, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships & Franchising at A&W Food Services of Canada and Chair of the Board of Directors for the Canadian Franchise Association, shares his expert perspective on how franchising is empowering entrepreneurs across the country. Drawing from his leadership roles in one of Canada’s most recognized food brands and on behalf of the national franchise community, Ryan highlights the powerful role franchising plays in supporting local business ownership, job creation, and community growth—making it a driving force in Canada’s evolving economy.
Ryan Picklyk is the Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships & Franchising at A&W Food Services of Canada, where he plays a key role in driving the brand’s expansion and fostering strong relationships with franchise partners nationwide. In addition to his work at A&W, Ryan serves as the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Canadian Franchise Association. In this role, he champions the growth, sustainability, and ethical standards of franchising across the country, supporting entrepreneurs and established brands alike.
Franchising is often seen as a bridge between entrepreneurship and established brand stability. From your perspective, how does franchising empower everyday Canadians to achieve their business ownership dreams while contributing to their communities?
Franchising is about being in business for yourself, but not by yourself. It offers a well-structured and supportive model that appeals to emerging entrepreneurs, empowering them to achieve their dreams while contributing to their local communities.
Franchising provides many advantages, especially for those who want to own a business without starting from scratch. One of the biggest benefits is the support the franchisee receives from the franchisor. Franchisees gain access to a proven business model, brand recognition, training, and established supply chains, marketing systems, and operational procedures.
This structure is especially valuable for first-time business owners, as it greatly reduces the risks and guesswork involved in starting a business.
Franchisees are deeply embedded in their communities too. According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), nearly all small retailers (97%) contribute locally, with 74% donating to charities, 56% sponsoring local events and teams, and 55% providing jobs for youth. Together, these contributions highlight how franchising supports Canada’s economy, empowers young workers, and strengthens the communities it serves.
With franchising projected to contribute over $133 billion to Canada’s GDP by 2026, what does this growth mean for job creation, youth employment, and local economic development nationwide?
Franchisees play a vital role in driving local economic growth, job creation, and giving back to the communities in which they operate.
On a provincial level, Ontario is expected to add nearly 32,800 franchise locations, accounting for 42% of national growth, while Alberta, British Columbia, Newfoundland, and PEI are also expected to see strong expansion.
Additionally, one in 10 Canadians are employed, directly or indirectly, in a franchise system. In 2024, franchise-related employment in Ontario is projected to reach 738,600 jobs, with Quebec and British Columbia following closely at 227,700 and 223,500 jobs, respectively.
But even beyond this large-scale economic impact, franchising plays an important role locally. For many young people and new Canadians, a franchise is where they have their first job. That’s certainly true for A&W, and our franchisees take a lot of pride in the role they play in training the young people in their communities. Whether it’s making Teen Burgers, painting houses, or many other jobs, franchising is where Canadians enter the workforce.
Beyond the financial impact, franchisees often play an important role in grassroots community-building. Can you share how franchisees contribute through initiatives such as local sponsorships, community events, or mentorship programs?
Giving back is a vital part of what makes franchise businesses strong pillars in their communities. Franchisees aren’t just business owners; they are members of their community who genuinely care about the place where they live and work. By investing time and resources locally, franchisees help ensure their communities thrive, which in turn supports the success of their own businesses.
For example, M&M Food Market has raised over $450,000 for BGC Canada through food and gift card donations and event sponsorship. Pita Pit franchisees support the Make-A-Wish Foundation and local hospitals, with one franchisee raising $10,000 in 2024 for Kelowna General Hospital. Dairy Queen has contributed over $52 million to children’s hospitals in Canada, with nearly 100% of locations participating in initiatives like Miracle Treat Day. Osmow’s Shawarma, through the Osmow’s Hope Fund, raised over $108,000 in 2023 to support local shelters and international projects providing meals and clean water to children. Realstar Hospitality, franchisor for Days Inn, Motel 6, and Studio 6, sponsors events like the Winnipeg MS Walk and combats human trafficking through staff programs. A&W’s franchisees participate in a partnership with Second Harvest, Canada’s largest food rescue organization. Last year, this program provided more than 1.2 million meals to those in need across the country.
The CFA launched the “Join the FAM” campaign to highlight franchisee stories and contributions. What is the core message of this initiative, and how do you hope it strengthens the way Canadians view franchising as both a career path and a community pillar?
September is Franchisee Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate the hardworking small business owners who make Canada’s franchise sector thrive. The CFA’s “Join the FAM” campaign highlights these franchisees and the strong sense of community they create. While franchising is projected to contribute over $133 billion to Canada’s GDP by 2026 and employ nearly 2 million Canadians, it’s the stories behind the numbers that truly make the community shine.
Through feature stories and videos, “Join the FAM” shows how franchisees build successful businesses while giving back locally. The support and guidance provided by a franchisor offers opportunities to innovate and fosters a sense of family. The campaign aims to strengthen Canadians’ understanding of franchising as both a rewarding career path and a vital part of community life.
Having spent years leading in the franchise industry, both at A&W and through the CFA, what drives your ongoing passion for franchising, and what final piece of advice would you share with aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners exploring this path?
One of the aspects of franchising that I have always loved is that success is only achieved if we work together. The very definition of franchising means that you can’t succeed alone—our achievements depend on great collaboration and a shared view of success in order to meet them!
Another thing that drives my passion for franchising is the lasting legacy of the work that we do together as members of the franchising community. Through my career with A&W, I’ve seen new Canadians join our business and grow from running one restaurant to helming large business that employ hundreds of Canadians. I love that when I visit a town or neighbourhood with an A&W, I see a community that has developed around that restaurant—and at the centre of that community is a franchisee. It’s really something special that only exists in franchising.
When it comes to advice for aspiring entrepreneurs exploring franchising, the CFA advises focusing on two key areas:
First, it’s important to navigate the franchise business model and find the right fit. Through research and self-assessment, prospective franchisees can help identify a franchise that matches one’s skills, interests, and budget. When doing your due diligence, prospective franchisees should Look for the Logo—the CFA Member logo displayed on a brand’s website, informational materials, or tradeshow booth shows that a brand is a member of the Canadian Franchise Assocation. This means it is a qualified brand that has demonstrated its commitment to franchising excellence by signing on to the CFA’s Code of Ethics.
Second, leveraging available resources to conduct proper due diligence is crucial. Prospective franchisees should fully understand the franchise agreement, support system, and operational requirements, and consult professionals including a franchise consultant, lawyer, accountant, and banker before committing. The CFA helps connect entrepreneurs with the right experts through its online supplier directory on CFA.ca, and through additional resources available at FranchiseCanada.Online. By carefully evaluating these factors, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions and position themselves for long-term success in the franchise sector.
