#Canada #Toronto #Melting Pot #Fondue #Restauraurants

Melting Pot's Ambitious Expansion Plans in Canada

Melting Pot, a renowned fondue franchise with 94 locations across the continent, is embarking on an exciting journey to expand its presence in Canada. This strategic move comes on the heels of increased customer interest and noteworthy growth in 2025, prompting the brand to explore new opportunities beyond its flagship Edmonton location, which has been successfully operating for over 15 years.

Increasing Demand for Fondue Experiences

The impetus for this expansion stems from a significant surge in inquiries from Canadian cities, particularly Toronto and Calgary. Collin Benyo, the Franchise Growth Strategist at Melting Pot, noted the existing fondue culture within Canada as a pivotal factor in their decision. “We saw a lot more people reaching out from Toronto and Calgary; we saw a need,” Benyo stated. He further emphasized that Melting Pot offers a unique four-course experience that sets it apart from any other dining options in the country, establishing a strong foundation for future growth.

Target Cities for Growth

Melting Pot has pinpointed several key locations for its expansion, including Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa. The franchise is seeking qualified entrepreneurs who possess experience in the hospitality sector, as well as a deep understanding of the Canadian market, to help realize its goal of opening between one to five new restaurants by 2030.

The selection process for franchise partners will prioritize those who have a rich background in hospitality, ensuring a successful launch and sustainable operation. “As we grow in Canada, we’re specifically looking for people who are familiar with the hospitality industry and understand the demands of running a hospitality franchise in Canada,” Benyo explained.

Navigating Local Market Nuances

Given the differences in the Canadian market compared to the United States, Melting Pot aims to leverage local expertise to navigate various challenges efficiently. This will enable the brand to maintain its commitment to quality while managing operational costs effectively. Interestingly, the franchise has identified that only three products need to be imported from outside Canada, with local suppliers available for the rest. This strategic sourcing approach supports the goal of protecting franchisee margins and meeting customer expectations right from the start.

Outreach and Franchise Show

In anticipation of this expansion, Melting Pot is gearing up for a packed outreach campaign leading up to the Toronto Franchise Show scheduled for September 19-20, 2026. This initiative will include local open houses and one-on-one discussions with prospective investors, cultivating a long runway for establishing the brand throughout Canada.

“We are a brand that fits the culture of Canada perfectly,” Benyo remarked. The franchise has refined its operational strategies to align with Canadian preferences, evidencing their commitment to understanding local nuances and preferences.

About Melting Pot

Founded in 1975, Melting Pot has been delivering unique fondue dining experiences for over 50 years. With an impressive array of cooking styles and menu options that include cheese fondues, salads, fine wines, and decadent chocolate desserts, Melting Pot is professionally recognized within the restaurant industry. For those interested in becoming part of the brand's journey, Melting Pot's franchise opportunities are available through their dedicated portals. Visit MeltingPot.com for more information on the dining experience and franchise possibilities.

As Melting Pot extends its reach in Canada, it stands poised to transform the culinary landscape, bringing its distinctive dining experiences to new audiences while celebrating the rich culture and culinary diversity of Canadian cuisine.