Expansion Into Canada: A Franchisee’s Perspective

By City Wide

Recently, City Wide Franchise, the franchisor of the nation’s premier management company in the building maintenance industry, opened its first Canadian franchise location serving the communities of Southwestern Ontario.

For those who are not familiar with the company, City Wide has made a name for itself in major U.S. cities by managing commercial maintenance needs for business owners and property managers. City Wide offers more than 20 services to their clients—ranging from janitorial, handyman, parking lot maintenance, and beyond.

The expansion into Canada — a goal that was only set by the franchisor at the beginning of the year — has become another major mile-marker for the brand. The inspiration to land in this market began in 2018, when City Wide started to see a great deal of interest in its franchise model from the Canadian Franchise Association.

Even though franchisors and franchisees work towards the same goal, which is having a successful business, it is no secret that each will face various challenges when trying to expand into a new country with its own regulations.

As the franchisor, there is a different market and different ways of conducting business. You can never assume the same business practices that work in the United States will apply across the border. For a franchisee, they encounter the challenge of opening a new business in a country where the franchise doesn’t originate. It is part of their responsibility to help establish the brand’s reputation.  

Here are three tips from Mark MacGregor, City Wide’s first Canadian franchisee, on what he has learned throughout the process of franchising under the conditions mentioned above:

Understand what currency you will be paying your franchisee fees in. When you are in the process of signing your agreement, be sure to clarify if the fees you will be paying are in U.S. or Canadian dollars.

Make sure corporate tools work across the border. Especially for a franchise brands that is opening its first location in a different country, it is important to confirm with the franchisor if the tools U.S. franchisees use are available in Canada. If not, work with the corporate team to see if there are other tools they can offer you.

Be prepared to work hard. As the first Canadian franchisee, you will have to overcome unique obstacles. Use this opportunity to collaborate with the franchisor. They can learn as much from you as you can from them. You have the opportunity to make a direct impact and pave the way for future Canadian franchisees.

Find out more about City Wide here.