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Stagecoach Canada Wins Bronze at the 2025 CFA Awards of Excellence in Franchising

By Julie Thomas

May 05, 2025

We’re proud to announce that Stagecoach Canada has been named the bronze winner in the Non-Traditional (6–15 Franchisees) category at the 2025 Canadian Franchise Association (CFA) Awards of Excellence in Franchising.

This prestigious recognition was presented on April 7, 2025, during the CFA’s 34th Annual National Convention held at the Sheraton Fallsview in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

Widely regarded as the highest honour in Canadian franchising, the CFA Awards of Excellence recognize franchise systems that demonstrate exceptional leadership, training, communication, and franchisee relations.

“Receiving this Award from the CFA is a wonderful recognition of the hard work and commitment of our exceptional franchisees,” said Kristi Wenaus, CEO of Stagecoach School for the Performing Arts, Canada. “This award underscores the powerful partnership we've built together, founded on open communication, shared goals, and unwavering support. We celebrate this achievement with each and every one of them.”

Stagecoach Canada was among more than 70 franchise brands evaluated this year. Winners were selected based on anonymous survey responses from franchisees, facilitated by third-party research firm The Portage Group, measuring overall satisfaction and performance within their franchise systems.

“The CFA Awards of Excellence in Franchising celebrates the very best in Canadian franchising,” said Sherry McNeil, CFA President & CEO. “Regardless of the size or concept, a strong relationship between the franchisor and franchisees is fundamental to a franchise system’s success. We congratulate Stagecoach Canada for their achievements.”

At Stagecoach Performing Arts, we believe in the life-changing power of performing arts education—and in the strength of our franchise network that brings this vision to communities across Canada. This award reflects the passion, professionalism, and dedication of our franchisees, and we are honoured to celebrate this milestone together.  

Thank you to the Canadian Franchise Association for this honour—and a huge shoutout to our incredible team and families who make Stagecoach such a vibrant community. The spotlight is on all of you!