Montreal's MTY Food Group Inc., a titan in the restaurant franchise industry, has officially confirmed it is conducting a strategic review that could lead to the sale of the company. The announcement, made on Monday, November 17, 2025, signals a potential major shift for the Canadian fast-food conglomerate.
Strategic Review and Potential Outcomes
The company stated it has engaged a financial adviser to identify and evaluate potential strategic alternatives. This process could result in a variety of outcomes, including a partial or complete sale of the company. However, MTY was careful to manage expectations, explicitly noting, "There can be no assurance that any transaction will occur." The company also affirmed it might simply continue executing its current business plan.
This confirmation followed an earlier report from Reuters, which revealed that MTY had hired Toronto Dominion Bank to advise on the process, citing confidential sources. Following the Reuters report, MTY's stock saw a notable uptick, closing up 4.5 per cent at $38.27 per share.
A Canadian Restaurant Empire
Headquartered in Montreal's St-Laurent borough, MTY Group boasts a formidable presence in the food sector. The company has a market capitalization of approximately $875 million and controls a vast portfolio of more than 80 restaurant brands. These brands operate in over 7,000 locations worldwide, making MTY a global player.
Among its well-known Canadian franchises are Bâton Rouge, Thai Express, Casa Grecque, Mikes, Scores, Jugo Juice, and Dagwoods. The company's extensive list also includes Allô mon Coco, Ben&Florentine, Pizza Delight, and Van Houtte. The empire was founded in 1979 by Stanley Ma, who remains the board chair and is the company's largest shareholder with a 13.9 per cent stake, according to London Stock Exchange data.
Implications for the Market and Future
The exploration of a sale places a spotlight on the consolidation within the restaurant industry and the value of large, diversified franchise networks. A transaction of this magnitude would represent one of the most significant deals in the Canadian restaurant and food service sector in recent years.
MTY Group has stated it does not intend to comment further on the strategic review unless additional disclosure becomes appropriate or is required by law. Investors and industry watchers will be closely monitoring any developments that emerge from this high-stakes evaluation.
