Expanding an Iconic Diner Brand
The Challenge
Denny’s long-term success in Canada depended on finding sites that offer visibility, accessibility, and high-volume traffic. The challenge is always securing locations that could accommodate family dining, draw consistent foot traffic and integrate seamlessly into diverse urban and suburban communities nationwide.
Our Solution
We advised Denny’s on-site selection and lease negotiations, prioritizing locations with high visibility, easy access from major roads, and proximity to travel hubs or family-friendly nodes. By aligning real estate strategy with customer demographics, RAFCO ensured Denny’s could replicate its success throughout the Eastern Canada.
Results:
- Secured prime, family-friendly sites across Canada.
- Reinforced the brand’s visibility in both suburban and urban markets.
- Strengthened Denny’s position as a trusted nationwide diner chain.
Expanding Wholesale Across Canada
Guided Costco’s Canadian growth with strategic site selection
The Challenge
Costco required large-format warehouse and gas bar locations across Canada. The challenge was not only the size and infrastructure demand of these sites but also the need to strategically position them to maximize accessibility and long-term growth potential.
Our Solution
We partnered with Costco to identify and negotiate warehouse and gas bar locations nationwide. This involved comprehensive trade-area analysis, logistics planning, and securing properties with direct access to major highways and population growth zones. RAFCO also played a key role in supporting Costco’s launch of its Canadian business-to-business initiative.
Results:
- Supported the opening of 15+ new & relocation of Costco warehouse and gas bar locations in various locations in Easter Canada.
- Ensured cost-effective negotiations on large, complex sites.
- Facilitated the successful launch of Costco’s Canadian B2B format in 2017.
Bringing Texas to Ontario
Supported steady expansion with tailored restaurant footprints
The Challenge
Lone Star needed to balance growth while maintaining brand consistency. Large flagship restaurants (6,000–12,500 sq. ft.) were essential for full-service experiences, while new 2,500 sq. ft. “express” models were required to meet shifting consumer demands in urban and high-traffic areas.
Our Solution
We helped Lone Star refine its real estate strategy by matching location formats to market demand. Large suburban sites were prioritized for flagship stores, while express models were placed in dense urban or commuter-friendly zones. Lease negotiations ensured sustainable occupancy costs across formats.
Results:
- Supported expansion across Ontario with multiple large-format and express locations.
- Improved portfolio efficiency by tailoring footprint size to market needs.
- Secured prime suburban and urban sites to maximize brand reach.
Growing Early Education
Assisted the US brand’s Canadian rollout
The Challenge
CEFA entered Ontario during the COVID-19, a challenging time for educational and childcare operations. The franchise needed to secure affordable, adaptable sites in a market where landlords were cautious and suitable properties were limited.
Our Solution
We guided CEFA’s Ontario entry, leveraging expertise in site selection and landlord negotiations. By targeting challenging spaces and negotiating favourable lease terms, RAFCO ensured CEFA could expand with minimal upfront risk while building brand presence in key communities.
Results:
- Launched 4 Ontario locations (Oakville, Burlington, Markham, Mississauga).
- Negotiated attractive leases on challenging spaces, reducing financial strain.
- Supported CEFA’s Ontario’s growth alongside its 50+ BC and 5 Alberta units.