Even if Quebec was put on pause for many weeks, it is not true that everything stopped completely. Some companies took the opportunity to tie up purchase offers, to refine the opening of new branches or to develop a new project. Here is an account of what went on behind the scenes during the public health break.
First, Foodtastic acquired La Chambre restaurants, two well established establishments and a third which is about to open.
This young Quebec banner, also associated with a microbrewery distributing its beers in more than 100 points of sale in the province, highlights a concept with potential for expansion that well complements the portfolio of existing restaurants under the yoke of Foodtastic. This company manages the franchises of Au Coq, La Belle et La Bœuf, Carlos & Pepe's, Nickels and Rôtisseries Benny.
Then, the chain Benny & Co. proceeded to the long-awaited inauguration in Terrebonne and Mascouche of its two new restaurants despite the pandemic. By the end of the year, we will have around 65 Benny & Co restaurants. in Quebec and Ontario. Other openings are planned in the coming months in Charlesbourg, Lévis, Saint-Hyacinthe and Valleyfield and represent investments of $ 5 million and the creation of nearly 100 jobs.
Elsewhere in Quebec, the chain's dining rooms will gradually open to ensure a safe environment for customers and employees.
Finally, at the height of the crisis, the Cage - Brasserie sportive had no choice but to revise part of its business model. Like many others, she turned to take-out orders and arrangements with UberEats and Skip for home delivery.
By fall, however, popular sports restaurants want to have their own employee-led delivery program and their own identified vehicles. Initially, we are talking about two cars per restaurant. The leaders first want to discuss government assistance that would help them buy electric cars.
This is good news which proves once again that Quebec entrepreneurs have ideas in their heads and do not sit idle for a second, even in times of crisis or when Quebec is "on break".
