Before starting your franchise operations, Bimbo Canada requires franchisees to complete a mandatory 3-week training program. This training is conducted by a certified "Peer Trainer" on an established Bimbo Canada Route, typically located in the same operating area as your franchise route. The training program aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of various operational functions specific to Bimbo Canada franchisees, including:
- Inventory Management: You will learn how to effectively manage your inventory, ensuring that you have the right products available to meet consumer demand while minimizing waste.
- Merchandising: The training will cover proper product placement and display techniques to maximize sales and enhance the overall shopping experience for customers.
- Customer Service: You will be trained on providing excellent customer service, including how to interact with customers, address their needs, and handle any inquiries or concerns they may have.
- Billing: The training will cover the billing process, ensuring that you understand how to accurately and efficiently manage invoicing and payment collection from customers.
- Receiving Protocols: You will learn the proper procedures for receiving and inspecting product deliveries, ensuring that all products meet quality standards and are accurately accounted for.
- Standards of Operations: Bimbo Canada has specific operational standards that franchisees are expected to adhere to. The training program will familiarize you with these standards and provide guidance on how to meet them consistently.
During your initial weeks as a new franchisee, your Territory Sales Manager will work closely with you at the Sales Center. They will also arrange to meet you at your customer locations to provide direct coaching and feedback. This hands-on support aims to help you understand and execute communication and operational standards specific to your franchised route and customer accounts.
It is important to note that the training and support provided by Bimbo Canada are designed to equip franchisees with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively operate their franchise and deliver the expected level of service to customers.
Bimbo Canada provides franchisees with various forms of operational guidance and support through its network of regional sales staff. Some of the support includes:
- Weekly Personal Franchise Meetings (PFM): Franchisees have regular meetings with their Territory Sales Manager to discuss strategic sales information specific to their franchise. These meetings provide an opportunity to review business performance, identify potential opportunities for growth, and discuss strategies to build the business.
- Regional Meetings: Bimbo Canada organizes regional meetings where franchisees can learn about the overall direction of the bakery business, get updates on new products and programs, and participate in open forum discussions. These meetings offer a platform for franchisees to connect with other franchisees and share insights and experiences.
- Website: Franchisees have access to a password-protected area on the Bimbo Canada website. This section provides various resources, including weekly reports, feature sheets, tools, customer information, training materials, franchise programs, and more. The website serves as a hub for important information and resources that franchisees can access at any time.
- Advisory Council: Bimbo Canada has an Advisory Council consisting of elected franchisee representatives. The council meets approximately two times a year and serves as a forum for exchanging ideas and information between Bimbo Canada and the franchisees. This platform allows franchisees to provide input, share feedback, and contribute to the decision-making process.
- Marketing and Promotional Support: Bimbo Canada offers marketing and promotional support to franchisees. This may include assistance with developing marketing strategies, providing promotional materials, and implementing marketing campaigns to drive customer awareness and sales.
- Ongoing Training: Bimbo Canada recognizes the importance of continuous learning and provides ongoing training opportunities for franchisees. This may include updates on product knowledge, sales techniques, customer service, and other relevant topics to help franchisees stay competitive and successful in their business.
It is important to note that the specific support and resources provided may vary based on the franchise agreement and individual franchisee needs. Bimbo Canada aims to provide comprehensive support to its franchisees to help them succeed in their business ventures.
