HOW CORA WENT FROM SINGLE MOM OF 3 TO FOUNDER OF 130 RESTAURANTS
Bet you recognized that sun in 2 seconds - and maybe you got a tingle in your taste buds?
We're all familiar with Cora...
But have you ever wondered how this classic breakfast joint's ended up on almost every street corner?
Here's a timeline - from start to finish
1960 - Cora’s last year of college
After getting pregnant, Cora abandoned her plans for a career and took on the role of full-time mom.
1970 – Cora alone
The year Cora divorced. She was now a single mother with three kids to support.
1980 – First restaurant
Wanting to start fresh, Cora sold the family home to open her first small neighbourhood restaurant in Montreal.
1982 – Moving up the ladder
Cora sold her first diner and worked at a popular restaurant where she started out as a hostess and was soon promoted to manager, general manager all the way up to junior partner.
All that came at a price - Cora was working two shifts for 5 years and burned out.
1987 - An abandoned snack bar and an unseen opportunity
Once she recovered - Cora opened up a small canteen with a vision to expand nationwide.
"To young entrepreneurs: less fantasy, less dreaming about business, and more discipline. I’m doing mentoring all the time. Young people are coming to see me with projects. They’re talking about the potential business like a dream, like they think it’s fun. I feel it’s good to have vision, but a business needs a lot of work and a lot of discipline.
Famous for its colourful breakfast platter, Cora’s quickly won the hearts of its customers. Inspired by the authentic fusion of family tradition, new trends and healthy eating with a dine-in concept, Cora’s Breakfast and Lunch was born and became an instant favourite!
1994 - First Franchise
With an increasing demand and reputation for outstanding brunch experience, Cora and her family opened its doors to franchising. Individuals interested and willing to invest in the long-standing tradition of Cora’s were introduced to the secrets of successful entrepreneurship.
2008 - New CEO
Cora steps down as CEO and names her son, Nicholas Tsouflidou, as her predecessor.
And now...
2017 - Speaks at The Legacy Conference
Over the years, Cora’s became a household name. Cora herself has won numerous titles/awards - including the Governor General's Award and the Veuve Clicquot Business Woman of The Year (international).
Today... Cora's Breakfast and Lunch is killing it in Canada (and soon the states?).
Feeling hungry (for success) yet?
Get a taste of her ingredients of success and see Cora speak at the Legacy Conference, this March 24th-25th, 2017.
Keep your eyes open for early bird tickets (only 4 days more ‘til the launch).