How Long Does It Take to Open a Food Franchise in Canada?

Opening a food franchise can be an exciting way to enter the restaurant business with the support of an established brand. But many people ask the same question before diving in:
“How long does it actually take to open a food franchise in Canada?”

The short answer is: it usually takes 4 to 12 months from your first inquiry to opening your doors.
But the long answer? It depends on many steps along the way.

This article breaks down the full timeline—step by step—so you know what to expect, how to plan, and what could speed things up or slow things down. We’ll cover:

Let’s take a closer look at what happens when you say, “Yes, I want to open a food franchise!”

 

Step 1: Research and Decision-Making (2 to 8 Weeks)

 

Before anything official happens, you’ll spend time exploring:

You’ll likely:

Average time: 2 to 8 weeks
Goal: Choose the right brand for your budget, goals, and lifestyle

 

Step 2: Application and Approval (2 to 6 Weeks)

 

Once you find a franchise you like, you’ll fill out a franchise application. This step allows the franchisor to check if you’re a good match. They may ask about:

Some franchises move fast. Others take more time to review and interview applicants.

You may also sign a Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) a legal document outlining fees, responsibilities, and what the franchisor provides.

Average time: 2 to 6 weeks
Goal: Get accepted as a franchisee

 

Step 3: Location Search and Lease Negotiation (4 to 12 Weeks)

 

Now comes one of the most important steps: finding the right location. This can make or break your business.

You may work with a real estate agent or leasing consultant to:

Some franchises, like Tim Hortons or Toronto Pho, help you find locations or have ones already secured. Others let you do it independently.

Average time: 1 to 3 months
Goal: Sign a lease for a location that fits your budget and brand

 

Step 4: Permits and Legal Setup (2 to 6 Weeks)

 

In Canada, you must register your business and apply for several licenses before opening a restaurant. This includes:

Each province and city may have slightly different requirements. Work with your franchisor or local consultants to stay on track.

Average time: 2 to 6 weeks
Goal: Be legally approved to open and operate

 

Step 5: Restaurant Design and Construction (8 to 16 Weeks)

 

Once your lease is signed and permits are in progress, you can begin construction and setup. This includes:

This stage can take longer than expected due to delays with contractors, materials, or inspections. Many food franchise owners say this is the most stressful step!

Average time: 2 to 4 months
Goal: Build a restaurant that matches brand standards and is ready to pass inspections

 

Additional resources

 

 

Step 6: Hiring and Staff Training (2 to 4 Weeks)

 

With your restaurant almost ready, it’s time to hire your team. You’ll need to:

Your franchisor will likely offer on-site training or send trainers to help your staff learn the systems, recipes, and customer service expectations.

Average time: 2 to 4 weeks
Goal: Build a strong team that’s ready to launch

 

Step 7: Grand Opening Preparation (1 to 2 Weeks)

 

As your opening day approaches, it’s time to:

Some franchises give you launch marketing kits, branded uniforms, opening-week promotions, and more.

Average time: 1 to 2 weeks
Goal: Create buzz and ensure operations are ready to go

 

Total Estimated Timeline: 4 to 12 Months

 

Here’s a recap of each stage and how long it typically takes:

Phase Timeline Estimate
Research and Choosing a Brand 2 to 8 weeks
Application and Approval 2 to 6 weeks
Finding a Location + Lease 4 to 12 weeks
Permits and Legal Paperwork 2 to 6 weeks
Design and Construction 8 to 16 weeks
Hiring and Training 2 to 4 weeks
Grand Opening Prep 1 to 2 weeks
TOTAL 4 to 12 months

 

Every franchise is different, and your timeline may be shorter or longer depending on:

 

Real Canadian Franchise Examples

 

Let’s look at how long it took for real business owners in Canada to open their food franchises:

 Toronto Pho (Vietnamese Cuisine)

A franchisee in Orillia began the process in January. By early November, they were open. That included everything—training, design, staffing, and inspections.
Total time: ~10 months

 Mary Brown’s Chicken

One franchisee in Ontario said they completed the process in about 6 months, but only because they found a great location early and had previous restaurant experience.
Total time: ~6 months

 Tim Hortons

Due to the popularity and real estate involvement of this brand, some franchisees report waiting up to 12 months or more, especially for locations inside gas stations or plazas.
Total time: ~12+ months

 

What Can Slow You Down?

 

Several things can delay your opening:

The best way to avoid delays is to stay organized, work with experienced professionals, and keep in regular contact with your franchisor.

 

How to Speed Things Up

 

Want to open faster? Here are a few tips:

  1. Choose a franchise with strong support – Brands that help with real estate and design save you time.
  2. Secure funding early – Have your financials ready to go before applying.
  3. Work with local experts – A local lawyer or restaurant consultant in your city can speed up permits and lease deals.
  4. Get pre-approved for financing – Talk to banks or lenders before committing to a location.
  5. Start the hiring process early – Even while construction is finishing, you can begin hiring and training staff.

 

Final Thoughts: Be Patient, Plan Well, and Communicate Often

Opening a food franchise in Canada is not something that happens overnight. But with the right planning, support, and mindset, it can be one of the most rewarding journeys you ever take.

Here’s what to remember:

Whether you’re dreaming of running a coffee shop, a sandwich spot, or a full-service restaurant, knowing the timeline helps you plan better, budget smarter, and open with confidence.

 

The final reflections on the PHO franchise opportunity in Toronto

 

Operating a pho franchise in Toronto offers a profitable and rewarding opportunity for entrepreneurs. With its diverse population, robust economy, and thriving culinary culture, the city provides an ideal setting for business success. However, thorough research is essential to find the right franchise opportunity and develop effective marketing strategies to stand out in this competitive market.

To achieve success, seek advice from industry experts, connect with seasoned franchise owners, and stay informed about changing customer preferences. By tapping into Toronto’s growing demand for pho, you can build and expand a flourishing business in the city’s vibrant food scene.

Take the first step toward owning a successful pho franchise in Toronto! Reach out to the Toronto PHO franchise team today and unlock the unlimited potential of this exciting business opportunity. We offer competitive franchise fees and comprehensive support to ensure your success in this profitable industry.

Looking for one of our locations? Simply search “Best pho Soup near me” to find Toronto PHO in Toronto, North York, Woodbridge, and Hamilton. Our locations are strategically selected for their accessibility, offering convenient public transportation options and ample parking to serve our valued customers.