Canadian Food Business
Growing consumer demand for plant-based foods is fuelling a partnership between Compass Group Canada, a leading food service provider, and Copper Branch, the world’s largest vegan restaurant chain. The partnership allows for the opening of up to 50 locations over 10 years to improve the availability of vegan options in hospitals and on campuses across Canada, with five planned openings in the next year.
Michael Hachey, chief innovation officer at Compass Group Canada, notes, “This strategic partnership is a direct response to what our customers have told us: They want healthy, plant-based options that are environmentally sustainable and fit into a well-balanced lifestyle.”
The initiative brings more vegan options to Canadians across the country, says Rio Infantino, Copper Branch’s CEO: “Our partnership with Compass Group Canada will allow us to accelerate our growth and expand our national footprint.” Launched in 2014, the company started in Quebec and has expanded to more than 60 franchise restaurants in Canada and, more recently, the U.S.
