Experience the benefits of becoming a Cora franchisee.
A specialized breakfast restaurant, serving home-style gourmet breakfasts and unique lunch meals the whole family will enjoy. Open from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays, the Cora concept offers a balance between your business and personal life. The chain is operated across Canada under the Chez Cora and Cora Breakfast and Lunch trademarks.
Respecting our founder's vision, the primary objective of the Cora franchise is to serve Cora breakfasts:
1. In as many places as possible
2. As often as possible
3. To as many customers as possible.
While the company’s mission and vision date back almost 25 years, as an organization we remain focussed on creating innovative and unique breakfast and lunch experiences.
As a Cora franchisee you will benefit from:
- An innovative business model that serves original, high-quality products with a proven track record of success in regional markets across Canada.
- A concept with a proven transferable operating system.
- A business where proven franchisees may be offered multiple expansion opportunities.
- A privately owned enterprise operated by a team whose core values are integrity, enthusiasm and professionalism.
Quick facts
Type of operations
Food service specialized in unique and creative breakfasts and lunches. Open between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays.
Distribution of Cora branded home-style products through selected grocery stores.
Clientele
Cora appeals to customers from all demographics.
First opening
June 1987
Number of franchises
Over 120 in 9 provinces
Site criteria
An area of approximately 3,000 to 3,500 square feet, at street level, on a commercial street and/or in a shopping centre, with ample parking.
Number of employees
Varies between 25 to 50 full and part-time employees
Training
Six-week training program (theoretical and practical)
Total investment
From $550,000 to $800,000 (with a minimum of approximately $300,000 unencumbered equity) which includes the franchise fee and training program costs.
Royalties
5% to 6% of net sales plus advertising fund
Available Markets
Greater Toronto Area, ON
Ottawa (Nepean), ON
North Bay, ON
Sarnia, ON
Sault Ste. Marie, ON
Sudbury, ON
Thunder Bay, ON
Woodstock, ON
Brandon, MB
Winnipeg, MB
Regina, SK
Grand Prairie, AB
Medicine Hat, AB
Greater Vancouver / Lower Mainland, BC
Prince George, BC
A complete franchise offering
If you’re awarded a franchise, you will receive ongoing support and guidance from our team of dedicated professionals. Our expertise and processes provide a strong foundation for your business.
A proven and unique concept
A family-oriented restaurant offering over 100 creative and tastefully crafted menu options in a friendly atmosphere. The strength of a corporate research and development team constantly renewing the network’s offering in response to consumer trends.
Site selection
Our experienced real estate/development team will select your site and negotiate your lease.
Training program
We provide franchisees with 6 weeks of theoretical and practical training. Prior to and during the opening (one week before the opening and two weeks following the opening) a team of 3 trainers are on site to support you and your staff.
Operational support
A dedicated and experienced field consultant team works with the franchisee to ensure respect of the Cora processes and high standards. Manuals covering all of the operating, marketing and management processes will be made available.
Computer system
You will benefit from a customized computer system helping you operate your business, keep track of key metrics, inventory, schedules, etc.
We use a proprietary extranet information system which allows, through the Internet, automatic transfer and management of data. This system also offers online multimedia training. Using a touch screen, employees have access to online training related to their position in the restaurant.
Request for additional information
We are seeking enthusiastic individuals who have the potential to master our operating system and are willing to be trained to our rigorous standards.
Ideal candidates will manage a profitable business for themselves and their families offering Cora customers exceptional quality food and service in a warm, family atmosphere.
If you feel you have the passion and drive to become a Cora franchisee, we’d like to hear from you.
To learn more, contact our franchise department at infofranchise@chezcora.com or download a printable version of our application form and return it by fax or mail.
Franchises Cora Inc.
Attention: Franchise department
16, Sicard Street, Unit 50
Ste-Thérèse, Quebec, Canada
J7E 3W8
Quebec phone: (450) 435-2426
Ontario phone: (905) 673-2672
Toll free: 1 888 673-2672
or
The Cora Franchise Group Inc.
2798 Thamesgate Drive, Unit 2
Mississauga, Ontario
L4T 4E8
Quebec phone: (450) 435-2426
Ontario phone: (905) 673-2672
Toll free: 1 888 673-2672
FAQ
What ongoing support is given to a franchisee?
The field consulting team provides ongoing support and training through restaurant visits and coaching. They ensure all Cora systems, specifications and standards are in place to drive consistent operations and profitable sales.
How long does it take to complete the approval process?
We have an in-depth franchisee approval process which takes into account many facets of the application. Applicants will attend a minimum of two interviews, a two-day “in-store workshop”, as well as perform a behaviour-based evaluation. We will follow up on your references, verify your finances and undertake a credit review. The approval process itself will take a minimum of three months in order to complete the necessary process. You will be given a Disclosure Document for your consideration.
What happens after I am approved as a Cora franchisee?
Once a candidate is approved as a Cora franchisee, a franchise agreement is signed and we begin to coordinate selection of a site that best suits your needs and meets our site selection criteria. Once a location is secured for you, and the store opening date is determined, we will schedule your training to coincide with the store opening.
What profitability can I expect?
The restaurant’s profitability will vary depending on management control, local market conditions and the passion and focus that a franchisee brings to the business. You will be provided with current financial figures at a specific stage of the franchisee candidate selection process (in the Disclosure Document).
Does Cora provide financial assistance?
Cora does not provide financial assistance, but will provide assistance with the preparation of a business presentation and will work with your financial institution to provide any information they require to complete your loan application. Cora has a national franchise program with several Canadian banks.
What do you mean by unencumbered cash?
Unencumbered cash (either personal or combined through partnerships) is cash on hand, in a savings account, chequing account or GIC account, otherwise known as “liquid capital”. Home equity and RRSPs are not usually considered unencumbered, except in certain circumstances. Your assets must be in Canada and you must be able to provide appropriate documentation to substantiate all assets.
What do the franchise fees cover?
First and foremost, the franchise fees allows you the right to use the Cora brand name and operating system. It also covers the cost of research and development, site selection, lease negotiation and project management.
Do I have to operate the restaurant myself?
We require franchisees to be owner/operators. You can consider an operating partner; however, you and/or the operating partner must participate in all stages of the franchisee approval process. Your operating partner is required to hold a minimum of 25% of shares within the operating company.
Who selects the site/location?
Cora has its own development department that locates and negotiates sites. Demographic research and other studies are carried out to determine suitability. We welcome all site suggestions, however they are subject to approval by our development department.
What are the criteria for a Cora restaurant site?
Restaurants are typically located in a market with a minimum population of 40,000 people, as well as possessing a square footage of approximately 3,000 to 3,500 sq ft.
What if I want to establish a Cora in the U.S. market?
Although our future plans include expansion into the U.S. market, we are still currently in the development stage and are not yet prepared to fulfill these particular requests. The groundwork has been established, and we expect development within the next few years.
