Exciting news for pizza lovers across Canada! Freshslice Pizza is proud to announce our most ambitious expansion plan to date, with 25 new locations set to open across the country in 2023. This strategic growth initiative represents our commitment to bringing fresh, delicious, value-packed pizza to more communities while creating new jobs and opportunities.

Building on Our Success

Since opening our first location in 1999, Freshslice has grown steadily to become one of Canada's favorite pizza brands. Known for our commitment to quality ingredients, speedy service, and exceptional value, we've built a loyal customer base that continues to grow year after year.

Our CEO, Ray Russell, shares: "This expansion is a direct response to the incredible demand we've seen from customers and potential franchise partners alike. Canadians have embraced our approach to pizza – fresh, fast, and affordable without compromising on quality – and we're excited to bring the Freshslice experience to even more communities."

Freshslice CEO at new location

Freshslice CEO Ray Russell at the opening of our 100th location in 2022

Where We're Growing

The planned expansion will extend Freshslice's presence across several provinces, with particular focus on areas where we've seen strong customer demand:

New Locations by Region:

  • British Columbia: 8 new locations, including expansion into Victoria, Kelowna, and Abbotsford
  • Alberta: 5 new locations in Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer
  • Ontario: 7 new locations across the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa
  • Quebec: 4 new locations in Montreal and Quebec City
  • Atlantic Canada: 1 new location in Halifax, our first in Nova Scotia

Each new location will create approximately 15-20 jobs, bringing the total employment impact to over 400 new positions across Canada. We're particularly proud that many of these opportunities will be in smaller communities where Freshslice has not previously had a presence.

Innovation Drives Our Growth

This expansion isn't just about adding more of the same – it's an opportunity to introduce exciting new elements to the Freshslice experience. Several of our new locations will feature:

Enhanced Digital Experience

All new locations will feature our state-of-the-art digital ordering system, allowing customers to place and customize orders quickly via in-store kiosks, reducing wait times during peak hours.

Open Kitchen Concept

Select locations will showcase our "open kitchen" design, where customers can watch our pizza artisans craft their orders from scratch, highlighting our commitment to freshness and quality.

Expanded Menu Options

New locations will be among the first to offer our expanded menu, including more plant-based options, gluten-friendly crusts, and locally-inspired specialty pizzas unique to each region.

Sustainability Initiatives

Our new locations will incorporate eco-friendly design elements and packaging solutions as part of our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint.

New Freshslice location design

Architectural rendering of our new location design featuring open kitchen concept

Franchise Opportunities

This expansion creates exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to join the Freshslice family as franchise owners. We're proud that several of our new locations will be operated by first-time business owners, including some who started their careers as Freshslice team members.

"What sets Freshslice apart as a franchise opportunity is our comprehensive support system and proven business model. We don't just sell franchises – we build partnerships with people who share our passion for great food and exceptional service." — Jennifer Patel, Director of Franchise Development

Key benefits of the Freshslice franchise program include:

  • Lower startup costs compared to many other food franchises
  • Comprehensive 6-week training program
  • Proprietary technology and systems that streamline operations
  • Marketing support at both national and local levels
  • Exclusive territories with protection from brand competition

Interested in franchise opportunities? We still have select territories available as part of our 2023 expansion plan. Contact our franchise development team to learn more.

Community Commitment

As we grow, our commitment to the communities we serve remains stronger than ever. Each new Freshslice location will continue our tradition of community involvement through initiatives such as:

  • School lunch programs providing affordable, nutritious options for students
  • Local sports team sponsorships supporting youth athletics
  • Food donation partnerships with local food banks and shelters
  • Fundraising opportunities for community organizations and charities

Michael Thomson, our Director of Community Relations, explains: "Being a good neighbor isn't just good business – it's part of our core values. As we expand, we're excited to build meaningful relationships in each new community and make a positive impact beyond just serving great pizza."

Grand Opening Celebrations

Each new Freshslice location will host a grand opening celebration featuring special promotions, giveaways, and community events. The first wave of new locations is scheduled to open in June 2023, with the remaining locations rolling out throughout the year.

Preliminary Opening Schedule:

  • June 2023: Victoria, BC; Calgary, AB (2 locations); Toronto, ON (North York)
  • August 2023: Kelowna, BC; Edmonton, AB; Ottawa, ON; Montreal, QC (2 locations)
  • October 2023: Abbotsford, BC; Surrey, BC; Red Deer, AB; Mississauga, ON; Quebec City, QC
  • December 2023: Remaining locations

Follow us on social media and sign up for our email newsletter to stay updated on specific opening dates and special promotions in your area.

The Future of Freshslice

This expansion is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Freshslice. Looking beyond 2023, we're developing plans for continued growth, menu innovation, and enhanced customer experiences.

"Our vision is to be Canada's favorite pizza brand by delivering exceptional value, quality, and service," says CEO Ray Russell. "This expansion brings us closer to that goal, but we're not stopping here. We're already planning our next phase of growth and innovation for 2024 and beyond."

Freshslice team celebrating

The Freshslice leadership team celebrating the expansion announcement

Join Us on Our Journey

We're grateful to our loyal customers who have made this expansion possible. As we grow, we remain committed to the values that have defined Freshslice from day one: quality ingredients, exceptional value, and a passion for making people happy through great food.

Whether you're a longtime Freshslice fan or someone who will be trying us for the first time at one of our new locations, we can't wait to serve you. Here's to the next chapter in the Freshslice story!

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