Start Your Search For A Franchise...

Why You Should Attend a Franchise Show (and Which to Attend)

Blurred Tradeshow Crowd
Generic trade show blur background
nikitabuida/Getty Images/iStockphoto

If you’re just now diving into the world of franchises, it can be daunting. What type of franchise should you invest in? Which franchisors are the most supportive? The best way to get the answers to your questions is to attend a franchise show.

You’ll Meet Franchisors Face-to-Face

There’s just something lacking when you research franchises online. You don’t have that personal one-on-one experience where you can use your gut instinct to determine whether or not this is a company you want to trust with your investment.

Attending franchise shows, you’ll have your pick of franchisors to sit down and talk with. It’s a good idea to do your due diligence beforehand so you have franchise-specific questions to ask once you’re there.

You’ll Discover New Franchises

If you don’t, for example, know that there are home-based franchise opportunities, you might miss out on a great alternative to the most-expensive brick-and-mortar franchise. By walking the floor, you will have your eyes open to all the possibilities.

You’ll Learn

In addition to franchisors exhibiting at a franchise show, there are also lots of educational session that will teach you how to choose a franchise, what financing is right for you, and how to market your new business. It’s like a one-day business school!

You’ll Meet Other Franchisees

If you’re considering a particular franchise brand, it’s always useful to talk to someone who already owns a franchise and pick their brains about the company. This can give you insight that the slick marketing material won’t provide.

Canadian Franchise Shows to Put on Your Calendar

There are several big shows held throughout Canada throughout the year, but here are a few of the upcoming ones to consider.

  • The Franchise Show - Vancouver, British Columbia
    November 7 & 8, 2015
    In Vancouver, get up close and personal with brands like Liberty Tax and QualiCare - Family Home Care, and attend sessions on topics like the legal aspects of choosing a franchise and 10 questions to ask before you buy a franchise.
  • The Franchise Show - Montreal, Quebec
    January 16 & 17, 2016
    In Montreal, meet brands like Subway, Pizza Pizza, and Chaussures Pop / Pop Shoes, and find the franchise brand that fits your needs. Don’t miss the Franchise Expert Roundtables, where you can pick the brains of experts on legal matters, franchising, and finance.
  • The Franchise Show - Calgary, Alberta
    February 6 & 7, 2016
    At this franchise conference in Calgary, exhibitors like Massage Addict and Signarama will be on hand to answer your questions. You can also benefit from the Roundtable discussions, where franchisors, consultants, lawyers, and financial experts will be available.
  • The Franchise Expo - Hamilton, Ontario
    April 16, 2016
    This offshoot of the Franchise Expo will have exhibitors like Uhaul, Qualiclean, and Booster Juice, as well as seminars on topics like how to choose and evaluate a franchise, understanding government regulations, and  marketing and sales.
  • The Franchise Expo - Regina, Saskatchewan
    May 14, 2016
    In Regina, talk to reps from franchises like Fantastic Sam’s and Direct Response Media Group. Then, hear expert speakers like Ryan Smolkin, Founder of Smoke's Poutinerie share their franchising experience.


Susan Payton is the President of Egg Marketing & Communications, a marketing firm specializing in content writing and social media management. She’s written three business books, including How to Get More Customers With Press Releases, and frequently blogs about small business and marketing on sites including Forbes, AllBusiness, The Marketing Eggspert Blog, and Tweak Your Biz. Follow her on Twitter @eggmarketing.

You have saved info requests

Complete Your Request