Montreal-based ‘plant-based power-food’ quick-service restaurant concept Copper Branch is launching a significant expansion in Canada that will see at least 20 locations open next year. Copper Branch has partnered with brokerage Think Retail for the initiative.

Founded in Montreal in 2014, Copper Branch aims to be “the undisputed leader in healthy fast-casual foods”. Entrepreneur Rio Infantino founded Copper Branch after owning several fast-food franchises over a period of about 25 years. The company said that its menu is designed to ‘Empower, Energize and make people feel their Best.” While its dishes are vegetarian, Copper Branch is targeting a wider audience, particularly those seeking clean, healthy meal options. It currently operates 12 locations in Quebec and Ontario.

For those wondering about the name, ‘Copper’ reflects the metal often used in gourmet cookware, while ‘Branch' references nature. The company’s ‘3 Values’ include 'chef-inspired flavours, power foods that nourish, and environment/responsibility.

Last week, Copper Branch opened its first location in Toronto. The 675 square foot vegan eatery opened in the newly renovated food court at Commerce Court, in the heart of Canada’s Financial District. Copper Branch recently opened a 1,500 square foot location at Carre Lucerne in Mont-Royal, Quebec, and new locations are also confirmed to be opening later this year on Sherbrooke Street West in Montreal’s Westmount Village, at Laurier Quebec in Quebec City, and in downtown Waterloo, Ontario. In early 2018, the concept will open in downtown Markham, and more will be announced shortly.

According to partner brokerage Think Retail, Copper Branch will continue to expand in the Greater Montreal and Toronto areas, and is also looking to secure first locations in Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver. Spaces will ideally be between 500 square feet and 2,300 square feet, along high streets and in malls (both enclosed and open-air). Tony Flanz is the contact at Think Retail for Copper Branch.

*Photos in this article are of the new Commerce Court location in Toronto.

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web: July 28, 2017