Franchising

Shake Shack heads to Canada

Provided

March 27, 2023

Shake Shack Inc. is entering Canada in 2024 via a partnership with Osmington Inc. and Harlo Entertainment Inc., two Toronto-based private investment companies prioritizing innovation, value creation and operating exceptional culinary experiences, according to Michael Kark, chief global licensing officer of Shake Shack.

"We have been eyeing this incredible opportunity in Canada for quite some time and are elated to have found exceptional partners to serve Shack classics and bespoke Canada-exclusive items to our sophisticated neighbors to the north," Kark said in a company press release. "Together with Osmington Inc. and Harlo Entertainment, we plan to open 35 Shacks in Canada by 2035 starting with the flagship location in Toronto in 2024. We can't wait to be a part of the city's bustling energy and innovative food scene."

Lawrence Zucker, Osmington CEO, said his company has always admired Shake Shack.

"Their emphasis on community building, enlightened hospitality and exceptional food quality aligns with our values and we are thrilled to be bringing them to Canada," he said in the release.

Michael Kimel, co-founder and chairman of Harlo Entertainment, agreed and said Harlo's experience in creating culinary destinations, scaling concepts and driving memorable guest experiences has allowed it to become a major player and will help Shake Shack thrive.

"We are extremely proud to be partnering with Shake Shack and excited to bring their brand to Canadians," he said in the release.

Since the original Shack opened in 2004 in NYC's Madison Square Park, the company has expanded to over 440 locations systemwide.