Meet Sara Lisk, the dynamic and inspirational leader, a multi-unit franchise owner behind two thriving COBS Bread bakeries in London, Ontario and a recent CFA Franchisee of the Year winner (Gold, Traditional Category). Presented by the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA), the award recognizes top-performing franchisees for their unique accomplishments and excellence in business performance, community service, and brand involvement.
In just four years, Sara has risen from Sales Assistant to celebrated bakery owner, transforming her passion for people and fresh baking into a local success story. Sara operates both the London North West bakery, located at Fanshawe Park Road, and the bakery on Wonderland Road South. The London community has warmly welcomed her, and Sara expresses deep gratitude; she’s excited to hire around 25 new team members at her second location and expand her impact.
From Vancouver Sales to Ontario Bakery Leader
Sara’s journey began while she was studying in Vancouver. She joined COBS Bread as a Sales Assistant, soon earning the company’s prestigious Lesley Gillespie Sales Award in 2017. With confidence and ambition, she relocated to Ontario, helping with a bakery launch in Waterdown before deciding: “opening a COBS is something I wanted to pursue as a career.” Four years later, she proudly owns and operates two bustling London locations.
Like all franchisees, Sara is a small business owner, but has the support of a well-established brand behind her. The training and ongoing support offered by COBS Bread helped her make her business ownership dreams a reality.
People First Is The Core Ingredient
Building a great customer experience starts with a strong team—Sara’s top priority. She says, “People have always been my priority, ensuring they feel supported, appreciated, and heard.” Her leadership fosters a culture rooted in care, collaboration, and continuous growth, which translates to the fresh, friendly atmosphere that customers love.
Baking with Purpose: End-of-Day Giving
Sara’s bakeries proudly participate in COBS’ national End-of-Day Giving program, which donates unsold fresh products to local charities. Across Canada, COBS has donated millions of baked goods, a mission that has become increasingly significant as food insecurity continues to rise. In London, Sara’s involvement supports community wellbeing, both through donations and partnerships.
Inspiring Initiatives and Support for Charitable Causes
One of the standout initiatives Sara supports is Doughnation Day, COBS Bread’s annual nationwide fundraising campaign. Sara’s London Northwest bakery is consistently recognized as one of the top contributors in Ontario. Under Sara’s leadership, Doughnation Day becomes more than just a fundraiser—it’s a full-scale community celebration. The team goes all out with vibrant store decorations, gourmet sample stations, raffle draws, and spirited competitions among staff to see who can “raise the most dough.” It’s a day that brings people together, blending fun and generosity to make a meaningful impact.
Over the years, Sara has forged strong partnerships with several impactful organizations, including ANOVA, Children’s Health Network, the Canadian Mental Health Association, Shine, and the Alzheimer’s Society Southwest Partners (ALZSWP). Through her COBS Bread bakeries, she has raised more than $45,000 in support of local charities, demonstrating how small business ownership can drive meaningful community change.
One of Sara’s most personal and enduring commitments is her partnership with ALZSWP. Inspired by her grandfather’s diagnosis with dementia, Sara has experienced firsthand the vital support the organization offers to families navigating similar journeys. In addition to donating over $25,000, she has made a multi-year pledge to ensure continued financial support for their programs.
Sara’s impact extends beyond donations—she actively leads annual baking workshops for individuals living with Alzheimer’s, utilizing the familiar and joyful act of baking to spark connections, creativity, and community. These workshops have become a heartfelt extension of her mission to create inclusive, meaningful experiences for everyone her business touches.
The Next Loaf: Growth on the Horizon
With her second bakery successfully launched, Sara’s not slowing down. She aims to deepen local partnerships, expand donations, and continue creating exceptional experiences with her teams. Her journey proves that entrepreneurial spirit, when combined with genuine care and community-minded leadership, yields both thriving businesses and inspired neighbourhoods.
As a member of the CFA, COBS Bread has signed on to the Association’s code of ethics and committed to upholding a high standard of excellence as a franchise brand. Those interested in becoming a franchisee should Look for the Logo–the CFA Member logo signifies that a brand has made these same commitments as a member of the Association.
Sara’s story exemplifies the powerful role franchisees can play in blending entrepreneurial success with social purpose. Her work is a model for how business leadership can enrich communities, one loaf and one act of kindness at a time.
