The answer is that it depends. The Ontario Superior Court of Justice considered the matter in 2313103 Ontario Inc. et al v JM Food Services Ltd. et al. in the context of whether the shareholders of the corporate franchisee can invoke the statutory rights afforded to franchisees under the Arthur Wishart Act (Franchise Disclosure), 2000 (Ontario) (“Act”).

Franchise systems come in all shapes and sizes, and each has its unique elements. However, there are common aspects that underpin well-run franchise systems. A healthy franchisee-franchisor relationship is a good indicator of a healthy franchise system. Here are several elements that reflect a strong franchisee-franchisor relationship.

Download the April 2016 issue of the Dickinson Wright Franchise & Distribution Law Newsletter.

The Quebec Court of Appeal’s April 15, 2015 decision is now the last word in a landmark case brought by 21 Dunkin’ Donuts Quebec franchisees against their franchisor, Dunkin’ Brands Canada Ltd. On March 17, 2016, the Supreme Court of Canada dismissed, without reasons, the franchisor’s application for leave to appeal the Quebec Court of Appeal decision.

In Ontario, statutory employment standards are established by the Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA) and enforced by the Ministry of Labour (Ministry) through its Employment Standards Program.

Ontario restaurants, bars and other businesses with employees who receive some of their pay through tips and gratuities will face new laws governing how these tips are collected and distributed to employees beginning this summer.