The 50 Largest Franchises in Canada (2020)

The 12th largest sector of the Canadian economy, franchising contributes over $100 billion CAD per year to the country’s economy. It also, according to the Canadian Franchise Association, creates jobs for almost two million Canadians directly.

With the industry’s impact on the overall economy, it might leave you wondering: Which franchises dominate the Canadian franchising scene?

Below is a ranking of the 50 biggest franchise systems in Canada. The ranking only takes into consideration the number of franchise units each business has in operation in Canada. Many of the franchises below also operate in several other countries.

It won’t come as a surprise that Tim Hortons is at the top of this list.

The Canada-born coffee franchise has become one of the most recognizable brands in the world. Also heading the list are worldwide franchising behemoths Subway, Circle K, McDonald’s, and Jan-Pro.

But just a little further down the ranking, you’ll come across some domestic favorites such as food franchises Canada Bread and Pizza Pizza, as well as retail franchise Gateway Newsstands and travel franchise Marlin Travel.

Overall, food franchises are very well represented (24 of the 50)—as is the case with most general franchise lists. However, a glance at the list reveals a strong showing for automotive franchises as well.

As for country of origin, more than half the list—26 to be exact—call Canada their birthplace.

Unsurprisingly, the United States follows as the next most common country of origin with 23. Japan is the single other country of origin to break the top 50. (Note: Some franchises featured are the Canadian subsidiary of a larger franchise brand (e.g. Jan-Pro Canada). For the count, the parent company country of origin was used.)

The whole list of 50 follows.

The 50 Largest Franchises in Canada*

*The information above was compiled from published industry sources such as the Canadian Franchise Association, franchise websites, and more. Estimates were used in limited cases. The list isn’t exhaustive.