With the opening of her fourth COBS Bread bakery, Steff continues to grow her mission of delivering delicious, freshly baked goods to even more neighbourhoods. Her journey has been fuelled by a deep commitment to quality, customer connection, and building strong local teams. Each bakery she opens becomes more than just a place to pick up bread—it becomes a cornerstone of the community. Let’s get to know her a bit better:

Tell us a little bit about yourself

My background was in restaurant management, but my husband and I had always dreamed of having our own business. The timing was right, I saw a COBS social media post about owning a bakery and not knowing what COBS Bread was all about, I went to the website to find out and really loved what I saw. We made a trip to Mississauga to see a bakery and try a bunch of products, and we were hooked!  

When did you join the COBS Bread family? Why did you decide to open a COBS Bread Bakery? 

I started my COBS Bread Franchisee training in Nov 2016 and have never looked back! We opened The Boardwalk in July 2017, Fairway Plaza Dec 2018, Blackstone Jan 2022 and I am thrilled and so proud to be the only Franchisee in Eastern Canada and the US with about to be 4 bakeries when Sunfish opens in the spring of 2025. I couldn’t do any of this without my incredible family and amazing bakery teams and managers. They all truly believe in my passion and help make the magic happen everyday.

What did you do before working at COBS? 

Professionally, I spent 15 years in restaurant management and a number of years operating a home-based daycare when my own kids were younger. For fun, I ran marathons!

What are you looking forward to about your new bakery? 

I LOVE all my bakeries. They are all so special to me in different ways. I’ve been referring to them as my eldest, my middle child and my baby. With a 4th on the way, I’m going to need to come up with a new reference – lol. Opening a bakery is epic! The excitement in creating another exceptional COBS Bread is unlike anything else. We’re working on our next banner catchphrase but everyone knows it’s going to be DELIGHTFUL!

Before joining COBS, were you much of a baker? 

I am a serious foodie; I cook and bake every single day.

How are you planning on getting involved in the community? 

I was born and raised in KW, my husband has lived here for basically 40 years now, and our kids have always called this home. We are very rooted in the KW community. With our 3 bakeries we have been able to support more than 21 charity partners in our End of Day Giving Program alone. The number of charities and events we support outside of that is countless. With COBS Bread Sunfish on the way, it only strengthens our reach.

What’s in your favourite sandwich? 

Cape Seed with ANYTHING!! It is such an amazing loaf and my staff start laughing when I start talking to customers about it. But if you want sandwich details… Perfect with fork mashed avocado on one side, hummus on the other, shaved turkey breast, provolone, cucumber, green peppers, tomato and spinach.

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End of Day Giving

One of the ways we give back is through our End of Day Giving initiative. At the end of each day, all unsold but perfectly fresh and delicious baked goods are donated to local charities, shelters, and community groups. This initiative ensures that quality food reaches those who need it most, while also helping to reduce food waste. Since the program began, we’ve donated millions of loaves, buns, pastries, and more to organizations across Canada.

Partnering with Second Harvest and Local Charities

We’re proud to work alongside Second Harvest, Canada’s largest food rescue organization, to redistribute our baked goods to food banks and other charities. Through this partnership, we’re able to extend our reach and make a greater impact on food security in Canadian communities. In addition to Second Harvest, our bakeries partner with numerous local charities, ensuring that donations go directly to those in need within their own neighborhoods.

Part of Your Community

Our support for local communities doesn’t stop with food donations. Many of our bakery owners and team members actively participate in fundraising efforts, sponsorships, and volunteering initiatives. Whether it’s supporting local sports teams, school programs, or community events, we are always looking for ways to make a difference beyond our bakery doors.

Baking a Better Future

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Why Second Harvest?  

Second Harvest is on a mission to rescue surplus food across the supply chain and redistribute it to charities, non-profits, and community organizations. With over 40 years of experience, they have become a leader in food rescue and redistribution, ensuring that fresh, healthy food reaches those who need it most it most across Canada. 

For COBS Bread, this partnership is a natural fit. Our bakeries are dedicated to minimizing food waste through initiatives like our End of Day Giving Program, where unsold bread and baked goods are donated to local charities. By joining forces with Second Harvest, we can expand our impact, helping even more communities across the country. 

Making a Difference Together 

Through this collaboration, we will: 

• Rescue More Food: COBS Bread locations will contribute surplus products to Second Harvest’s network of non-profits and charities.
• Support Local Communities: The partnership will directly benefit individuals and families facing food insecurity.
• Reduce Environmental Impact: Preventing good food from ending up in landfills helps lower greenhouse gas emissions.

How You Can Help 

Supporting this initiative is easy.  

1. Donating to Second Harvest: Donate online now!
2. Join COBS Bakeries for Doughnation Day: Buy a 6-pack of hot cross buns and $2 will be donated to Second Harvest from participating bakeries.
3. Reducing Food Waste at Home: Be mindful of your own food consumption and practice sustainable habits.

A Shared Commitment to a Better Future 

At COBS Bread, we believe that good food brings people together. With Second Harvest as our national charity partner, we’re excited to continue making a positive impact, one loaf at a time. 

Learn more about Second Harvest and how you can get involved at secondharvest.ca. 

Together, we can nourish communities and reduce food waste. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us! 

doughnate now!

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Premium Canadian Ingredients

We believe in supporting domestic farmers, millers, and producers by sourcing our ingredients right here in Canada whenever possible. Our flour, the backbone of every loaf, bun, and baguette, is made from 100% Canadian wheat, known globally for its superior quality. This not only ensures the best-tasting bread but also supports the hardworking farmers who are the foundation of our food system.

No Great Bake Without Great Butter

We proudly use Canadian-sourced butter and cheese in our delicious breads, pastries, and savoury treats. By choosing domestically produced dairy, we ensure that every bite of our products is rich in flavour, high in quality, and supports Canadian farmers. When you see Canadian butter and cheese in COBS Bread products, you can trust that they come from farms committed to sustainable agriculture, animal welfare, and the highest levels of food safety.

Sustainably Sweet

Sugar is a key ingredient in many of our baked goods, but not all sugar is created equal. At COBS Bread, we choose our sugar because of its dedication to sustainability and ethically sourced. Cane sugar from Fairtrade-certified farms, supporting fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmentally friendly farming techniques. By choosing ethically sourced sugar, we help ensure that farmers are treated fairly and that agricultural practices remain sustainable for generations to come.

Blueberry Bliss

COBS sources high-quality wild blueberries from Canada’s East Coast, where the rich soil and cool climate create ideal growing conditions. Farmers use sustainable methods such as natural pollination and integrated pest management to ensure environmental health and superior berry quality. Blueberries are hand-picked at peak ripeness to ensure freshness in every bite.

Committed to Cage-Free Eggs

At COBS Bread, we believe in making choices that are better for animals, our customers, and our communities. That’s why we are proud to use cage-free eggs in our products. Cage-free eggs come from hens that are raised in environments where they can express their natural behaviours, like perching, nesting, and roaming freely. By choosing cage-free eggs, we support higher animal welfare standards and provide our customers with baked goods made from more ethically sourced ingredients. Every bite of our egg-based products, like our Gourmet Hamburger and Hot Dog Buns, reflects our dedication to responsible sourcing.

Best in Every Bite

By choosing these Canadian-grown ingredients, we help strengthen our domestic economy, reduce our environmental impact, and ensure the best in every bite. Our commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing means that when you purchase a baked from scratch product from COBS, you’re also supporting Canadian agriculture, responsible farming practices, and a thriving food industry that benefits us all.

Find a Bakery

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National Bagel Day is a perfect occasion to celebrate one of the most beloved breakfast items in the world. Bagels are not just a food—they’re a cultural icon (All Hail the Everything Bagel!), enjoyed by millions of people daily for their chewy, soft, and perfectly toasted texture. This year, COBS Bread is taking your bagel experience to the next level with the introduction of their new lineup of delicious bagels: Plain, Sesame, and Everything Bagels.

To make the day even sweeter, the first 25 customers at any bakery will receive a free bagel—so don’t miss out on this tasty celebration!

YOU GET A BAGEL!

Plain Bagel – Less Is More

Sometimes, nothing beats the classic. COBS Bread’s new Plain Bagel is the perfect choice for purists who appreciate the traditional flavor and chewy texture of a hand-stretched bagel. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter, as a sandwich base, or with a smear of your favorite spread, the Plain Bagel offers the flexibility to suit any topping. Its simplicity allows you to savor the quality and taste of freshly baked bread without distraction.

Sesame Bagel – Toasty and Irresistible

For those who enjoy a little more flavor in their bagel, the Sesame Bagel is the ideal choice. The golden sesame seeds on top provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the soft, chewy interior. Toasted to perfection, the Sesame Bagel pairs wonderfully with cream cheese, hummus, or even smoked salmon for a delicious savory breakfast or lunch.

Everything Bagel – Flavor Explosion

If you love variety and bold flavors, the Everything Bagel is sure to satisfy your taste buds. This bagel is loaded with a delicious combination of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt. The unique blend of seasonings creates a savory taste that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you top it with a fried egg, your favourite deli meats, or a generous dollop of cream cheese, the Everything Bagel offers a flavorful bite every time.

FIND IN BAKERY TODAY

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When it comes to franchise resales, a lot of people hesitate because of their history, but a lot of times they also present unique opportunities for growth and success with easier entry.

Daisy acquired our Okotoks bakery back in early 2023 and has since thrived in the area. Her journey is a testament to the potential of a resale. Here is how she navigated through the challenges in the local market and became a rising star in our brand.

Navigating Initial Challenges

Taking over an established bakery with a loyal customer base and long-standing staff was no small feat. Daisy faced the big task of integrating herself into a well-oiled machine without disrupting its harmony.

“Figuring out where I fit into that dynamic and how I could improve things for everyone involved was challenging,” she recalls. “Open communication was key. I set goals and communicated them clearly so that everyone on the team was working towards the same objectives. I assured customers that everything would remain the same, except for the name on the business card.”

Engaging with the local market

Community outreach played a pivotal role in the bakery’s growth. From setting up school lunch programs to engaging with local companies, Daisy made sure the community knew that the bakery was there to support them. Consistency in product quality and exceptional customer service helped the bakery stand out in the competitive Alberta market.

“Our demographic encompasses all kinds of customers, from seniors to parents to children,” she explains. By studying spending habits and listening to customer needs, she ensured that the bakery catered to a wide range of preferences.

Future Goals

Speaking about her growth plan, Daisy is looking to further expand in Alberta and stay competitive in this market. “The market wasn’t the biggest challenge, the biggest obstacle was the mindset of being content with what we do, so it is important to keep raising the bar for excellence in customer experience and staff empowerment.” 

To continue growing and adapting in this changing market, she plans to reach out to a broader demographic, focusing on the lifestyle of the customer rather than household income. “We want to provide something for everyone, this includes participating in community events or creating events that cater to our customers as a whole.” 

Lessons and Advice for New Franchisees

Looking back at her experience, Daisy has a few pieces of advice for anyone looking to become a franchisee. “Don’t be reactive; be proactive. Plan, plan, plan. Your team is part of your plan, and you rise together,” she advises. “This business is like your family. Treat it like you would your family because that’s how they treat you. Open communication and transparency with the franchisor are crucial.”

Do you share the same ambition?

COBS Bread is expanding, and we’re offering exciting franchising opportunities throughout Canada. Learn more about these opportunities on our website!

Learn More About COBS Franchising

The post Centennial Village: A Resale Success Story in Alberta appeared first on COBS Bread.

We want to introduce you to Sara, the dedicated multi-site owner of our COBS Bread bakeries in London, Ontario! With her second bakery now up and running, Sara’s journey as a COBS franchisee continues to inspire us all.

From her early days as a Sales Assistant to becoming a successful multi-site owner, Sara’s story is one of growth and passion. Read on to learn more about her experience and her plans for the new bakery!

Why COBS Bread?

Sara’s journey with COBS Bread began while she was attending university in Vancouver, BC. Starting as a Sales Assistant and later becoming a Sales Manager, she decided to pursue a career with COBS. “The support and collaboration within the COBS Bread network are incredible,” she shares. “Being part of this network means being surrounded by diverse individuals who bring a wealth of expertise from their previous careers.”

WHAT SHE VALUES MOST

For Sara, the most rewarding aspect of her role is connecting and collaborating with people. She cherishes the opportunity to be part of a network loved by Canadians coast to coast. The support from the London community over the past four years has been overwhelming, and she is excited to bring COBS to new areas.

Sara looks forward to meeting new team members, connecting with customers, and partnering with more organizations. She is particularly grateful for the patience and feedback from the community as they expand to the south of London.

A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Sara believes that success comes from focusing on her team and creating an unmatched workplace culture. “People have always been my priority, ensuring they feel supported, appreciated, and heard,” she emphasizes. Her team operates based on values of care, collaboration, and continuous growth, which translates to an incredible experience for customers.

We are thrilled to see Sara’s journey with COBS Bread flourish, and her story is a testament to the growth opportunities within our network. As Sara continues to expand her presence in London, she exemplifies the potential for franchisees to grow and open more stores, bringing the beloved COBS Bread experience to even more communities.

COBS Bread is expanding, and we’re offering exciting franchising opportunities throughout Canada. Learn more about these opportunities on our website!

Learn More About COBS Franchising

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Balancing bakery ownership with family life might seem challenging, but Heather, the owner of our thriving bakery in North Vancouver, shows how our proven roadmap can make bakery dreams a reality.

With a well-trained team and efficient systems, Heather seamlessly transitions from family breakfasts to managing bakery operations and local deliveries.

Heather’s journey demonstrates that work-life balance is achievable in bakery ownership. With the right support and dedication, our franchisees enjoy fulfilling careers while maintaining harmony in their personal lives.

To give you a better picture, here is what a day looks like for Heather!

6:00 AM – Pedal and Prep

Heather’s day kicks off with an energizing Peloton bike workout at home, where she multitasks by reviewing emails, bakery financial results, and planning her day. It’s the perfect blend of fitness and productivity!

8:00 AM – Family Time

After her morning routine, Heather shifts gears to family mode, prepping breakfast and packing lunches with the freshest bread. It’s all about starting the day right for everyone.

9:30 AM – Bakery Buzz

Heather heads to the bakery to check in with her team and assist with preparing daily wholesale deliveries to local restaurants. After a quick school drop-off, she’s back at the bakery, diving into everything from production to payroll, ensuring the day runs smoothly.

12:00 PM – Community Connection

Heather’s afternoons are all about giving back. She helps her team pack and deliver hot lunches to local schools, strengthening community ties one meal at a time. Then, it’s off to pick up her daughter from school and drop her off at gymnastics training.

6:30 PM – Relax and Reset

Evenings are reserved for family dinners, helping with homework, and enjoying activities like swimming or walking the dog. Heather wraps up her day with some relaxation and a quick review of her calendar for the next day, ready to do it all over again.

Owning a bakery might not be as intimidating as you thought, and you could dive into a rewarding venture that combines your entrepreneurial spirit with a love for community and fresh, delicious bread too.

COBS Bread is expanding, and we’re offering exciting franchising opportunities throughout Canada. Learn more about these opportunities on our website!
 

Learn More About COBS Franchising

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COBS Bread is thrilled to announce its inclusion on the 2024 Best Workplaces in Retail & Hospitality list. This recognition underscores COBS Bread’s commitment to creating a positive and supportive workplace culture, as assessed by Great Place to Work®.

The list is based on direct feedback from employees of hundreds of organizations surveyed by Great Place to Work®. As COBS Bread continues to grow, the business has demonstrated dedication to supporting its team, customers, and communities where the bakeries operate and serve focusing on employee well-being and engagement, as highlighted by the Trust Index survey.

“Working at COBS is amazing,” says Wendy Forbes, a staff member from COBS Bread Century Crossing in Spruce Grove, AB. “I love my teammates, customers, and the friendly, stress-free environment. It’s also amazing to work for a business that gives back to the community with our COBS Bread End of Day Giving Program. Knowing that everything we bake that doesn’t get sold is donated to local charities at the end of the day is incredibly rewarding.”

“COBS Bread is a great place to work because of the strong team spirit and the supportive culture,” says Vevette Villahermosa, Director of People and Culture. “It’s rewarding to see how our work positively impacts our bakeries and the communities we serve.”

Continuing its tradition of excellence, COBS Bread remains committed to enhancing workplaces and innovating retail and hospitality across North America. From their first bakery opening in Canada over 20 years ago, COBS Bread has aimed to become every community’s favourite bakery, sharing their love for freshly baked bread and treats.  

For more information on working at COBS Bread and to find available positions, please visit cobsbread.com/careers.

About COBS Bread:  

COBS Bread (BD Canada Ltd.) bakeries are a one-of-a-kind family-owned bakery franchise, with a vision to be the favourite bakery in every community. Every morning at each one of its +170 bakeries, all bread, treats, buns, scones (and more) are baked fresh. All leftover product is donated to local charities at the end of each day, allowing COBS Bread to donate over $50M of retail products annually. COBS Bread’s loyalty program, COBS Club, provides customers with rewards for purchases and currently has over 500,000 members. COBS Bread has received a Franchisees’ Choice Designation from the Canadian Franchise Association for 14 consecutive years and is also recognized as a Great Place to Work® and has been ranked 48 on the Best Workplaces 2023 list.  

About Great Place to Work®: 

Great Place to Work is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. A global research and consulting firm, Great Place to Work® provides the benchmarks and expertise needed to create, sustain, and recognize outstanding workplace cultures. In Canada, Great Place to Work® produces both industry and demographic-specific Best Workplace lists and represents the voices of 500,000 employees across the industry. This is part of the world’s largest annual workplace study, recognizing the world’s Best Workplaces in a series of national lists including those published by The Globe & Mail (Canada) and Fortune magazine (USA). Visit us at www.greatplacetowork.ca. 

The post COBS Bread Celebrates 6th Year on the 2024 Best Workplaces in Retail & Hospitality List appeared first on COBS Bread.

• COBS Bread Mini Cinnamon Buns 6-Pack (uniced)
• Icing
• Sprinkles or other toppings of choice (candy, chocolate chips, etc)
• Food colouring

COBS Bread uniced Mini Cinnamon Buns serve as the perfect rainy-day canvas. The fluffy and gooey texture pairs well with an array of toppings. From traditional icing sugar to colourful sprinkles and chocolate chips, the possibilities are as endless as your child’s imagination. Encourage your kids to let their creativity run wild as they decorate each mini bun. Whether they opt for a sprinkle explosion or a minimalist drizzle, every creation is a testament to their unique flair.

This simple activity will keep your little ones engaged on the rainiest of days and foster their creativity. Beyond the culinary fun, decorating Mini Cinnamon Buns is an opportunity for quality bonding time. As you work together in the kitchen, you’ll share stories, laughter, and maybe even a few sticky-hand hugs. These moments are what rainy days are made for—creating lasting memories with the ones you love most.

So, the next time rain drops tap at your window, don’t fret about boredom setting in. Instead, grab a 6-pack of COBS Bread uniced Mini Cinnamon Buns, gather your little ones, and embark on a delicious adventure.

Our cinnamon buns are handcrafted with care and baked fresh daily using quality ingredients you can trust. With a sprinkle of creativity and a whole lot of sweetness, you’ll turn a rainy day into a cherished memory. Embrace the rain, savour the sweetness, and let your creativity flow!

Find your local bakery

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