Bread for This! Meet Nelson Diaz – Richmond Hill’s Newest COBS Franchisee

Bread for This! Meet Nelson Diaz – Richmond Hill’s Newest COBS Franchisee, COBS Elgin Mills.

From firewalls to flour dust, Nelson Diaz has taken a bold leap from the world of cybersecurity into the heart of handcrafted baking as a first-time COBS Bread franchisee. After more than 13 years working in IT for one of Canada’s largest banks, Nelson felt the pull toward something more personal—something he could build with his family and share with his community.

The journey to COBS Bread wasn’t instant. Nelson and his family had been exploring franchise options for a while, but none quite felt right—until a not-so-close visit to a COBS bakery changed everything. A simple franchising sign sparked a second look, and before long, Nelson’s past training in European baking and the thorough COBS selection process sealed the deal.

Now, as he opens the doors to his very first bakery in Richmond Hill, Nelson is ready to blend his past experience with fresh purpose: building a thriving family business with strong ties to the local community. From participating in local events to partnering with nearby organizations, he’s already laying the groundwork to make a lasting impact. Let’s get to know him better:

When did you join the COBS Bread family? Why did you decide to open a COBS Bread bakery?

I joined Cobs Bread back in 2023. We’ve been looking to have a business of our own and we though a Franchise would be a good option. After investigating about several franchises we didn’t find one that made us feel confident about doing the business. Once day we visited one of the Cobs Bread bakery not-so-close to our place and we noticed a sign about franchising. We restarted our investigation and here we are. There were many factors to join Cobs Bread. One of them was a training in European bakery I took long time ago. Another factor was the selection process to join.

What did you do before working at COBS?

I was working in IT (Cybersecurity) in one of the biggest bank in Canada. I was working for this bank for +13 years.

What are you looking forward to about your new bakery?

To establish a successful family business with strong links to the local community.

Before joining COBS, were you much of a baker?

Sometimes, for special occasions. I kept the knowledge I acquired during my training long time ago but I applied it only a few times a year.

How are you planning on getting involved in the community?

I’m planning to participate in community events in Richmond Hill and to engage with local organizations to create the links that allow us to grow within the city.

What’s in your favourite sandwich?

An open smoky salmon with capers, olive oil, pepper and sea salt.

Welcome to the COBS Bread family, Nelson—we’re loafing this new chapter already!