Centennial Village: A Resale Success Story in Alberta
Centennial Village: A Resale Success Story in Alberta
When it comes to franchise resales, a lot of people hesitate because of their history, but a lot of times they also present unique opportunities for growth and success with easier entry.
Daisy acquired our Okotoks bakery back in early 2023 and has since thrived in the area. Her journey is a testament to the potential of a resale. Here is how she navigated through the challenges in the local market and became a rising star in our brand.
Navigating Initial Challenges
Taking over an established bakery with a loyal customer base and long-standing staff was no small feat. Daisy faced the big task of integrating herself into a well-oiled machine without disrupting its harmony.
“Figuring out where I fit into that dynamic and how I could improve things for everyone involved was challenging,” she recalls. “Open communication was key. I set goals and communicated them clearly so that everyone on the team was working towards the same objectives. I assured customers that everything would remain the same, except for the name on the business card.”
Engaging with the local market
Community outreach played a pivotal role in the bakery’s growth. From setting up school lunch programs to engaging with local companies, Daisy made sure the community knew that the bakery was there to support them. Consistency in product quality and exceptional customer service helped the bakery stand out in the competitive Alberta market.
“Our demographic encompasses all kinds of customers, from seniors to parents to children,” she explains. By studying spending habits and listening to customer needs, she ensured that the bakery catered to a wide range of preferences.
Future Goals
Speaking about her growth plan, Daisy is looking to further expand in Alberta and stay competitive in this market. “The market wasn’t the biggest challenge, the biggest obstacle was the mindset of being content with what we do, so it is important to keep raising the bar for excellence in customer experience and staff empowerment.”
To continue growing and adapting in this changing market, she plans to reach out to a broader demographic, focusing on the lifestyle of the customer rather than household income. “We want to provide something for everyone, this includes participating in community events or creating events that cater to our customers as a whole.”
Lessons and Advice for New Franchisees
Looking back at her experience, Daisy has a few pieces of advice for anyone looking to become a franchisee. “Don’t be reactive; be proactive. Plan, plan, plan. Your team is part of your plan, and you rise together,” she advises. “This business is like your family. Treat it like you would your family because that’s how they treat you. Open communication and transparency with the franchisor are crucial.”
Do you share the same ambition?
COBS Bread is expanding, and we’re offering exciting franchising opportunities throughout Canada. Learn more about these opportunities on our website!
Learn More About COBS Franchising