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Why franchisor-franchisee disputes are more common right now

This week’s edition of the RB podcast "A Deeper Dive" examines disputes at Tim Hortons, Subway, Applebee’s and others.
Photograph: Shutterstock

a deeper dive


Franchisor-franchisee disputes have emerged in a number of restaurant companies in recent months, both in the U.S. and Canada.

This week’s edition of the RB podcast "A Deeper Dive" examines why this is happening, and how franchise systems can avoid these problems. The podcast features John Gordon, a consultant with Pacific Management Consulting Group and an expert on industry economics, particularly in the franchising sector.

We discuss why some franchises are embroiled in disputes, and what systems do the best job of improving franchisee relationships.

Chad Finkelstein
Chad Finkelstein photograph courtesy of Dale & Lessman

The podcast also features Chad Finkelstein, an attorney out of Toronto who helps us understand the unique dynamics of the dispute between Tim Hortons franchisees in Canada and the franchisor.

Finkelstein is not involved in any of the cases but has been a close observer as an expert on Canadian franchise law. He is a partner and registered trademark agent in the corporate commercial group at the Toronto firm Dale & Lessmann.

Please have a listen.

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