Canadian restaurant franchisor Foodtastic has signed an exclusive franchise development agreement with NGU-Group for the expansion of Quebec-based Rotisseries Benny across Asia, starting with China. The deal marks a milestone in Canadian restaurant history, as Benny becomes the first Quebec restaurant chain to establish a national presence in China.
The first two locations are set to open this fall in Shanghai, one of the largest and most dynamic cities in the country. With long-term ambitions to expand across China, NGU-Group’s goal is to introduce the Benny brand — known for its slow-roasted chicken, bold BBQ sauces, and classic Quebec poutine — to millions of new consumers.
Quebec Roots, Global Ambitions
Rotisseries Benny was founded in 1960 by a family of poultry farmers and has grown to become a Quebec institution. The restaurant chain built its name on a signature offering of juicy rotisserie chicken, savoury sauces, and a fast-service model ideal for families and working professionals. Its popularity among generations of Quebecers laid the foundation for what is now a major international push.
In 2019, Benny was acquired by Foodtastic, a rapidly expanding Canadian franchisor based in Quebec. Foodtastic has since modernized and scaled the brand, while retaining its original recipes and values. The company now oversees a portfolio of 27 brands, including Second Cup, La Belle et La Bœuf, Freshii, Monza, Quesada, and Pita Pit, operating over 1,200 locations across Canada.
A Veteran of the Chinese Market
The strategic partnership in China is led by Jacques Houle, President and CEO of NGU-Group. Based in Boisbriand, Quebec, Houle is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of business experience in China. He is best known for introducing high-quality imported goods into North America, including Forno, a brand of luxury kitchen appliances distributed widely across the continent.
“For more than half a century, Quebecers have faithfully and regularly returned to Benny for their delicious chicken, savory BBQ sauces, legendary poutine, and extensive menu,” said Jacques Houle. “I myself became a loyal customer years ago. Having worked with China for over 30 years, I have seen that the Chinese have a great love for roasted chicken, and I developed the conviction that they would absolutely love our style of chicken – the way we have adopted rotisserie cooking in Quebec and the types of BBQ sauces we have developed over the decades. And Benny has mastered these recipes throughout its history.”
Houle’s deep understanding of China’s business environment and consumer habits gives NGU-Group a strategic edge. He emphasized that China’s vast geography — comprising 1.4 billion people, 620 cities, 262 airports, and over 5,000 train stations — presents unparalleled opportunity for growth.
Building a National Footprint
NGU-Group plans to develop a robust franchise network across China, leveraging local knowledge, operational expertise, and strong brand identity. The company will start with flagship locations in Shanghai to build awareness and establish credibility before scaling to other cities.
“Driven by a passion for hospitality and food, and committed for the long term, NGU-Group plans to build a strong franchise network across China — offering Chinese consumers the premium roasted chicken experience that Quebecers have delivered and enjoyed for over 60 years,” said Houle.
The company is aiming to differentiate itself by importing not only its core product offering, but also its culture of hospitality and emphasis on quality.
Market Ready for Quebec’s Favourite Chicken
Peter Mammas, President and CEO of Foodtastic, recently travelled to Shanghai to assess market readiness and meet with NGU-Group’s team.
“We’re very excited to have joined forces with Jacques Houle and his team to bring the Benny experience to customers in China,” said Mammas. “I just returned from a visit to Shanghai and saw firsthand how ripe and open the market is to our rotisserie-style menu. We are confident that customers across China will appreciate the traditional recipes that we and the original founders have carefully crafted over the years.”
The collaboration will see Foodtastic supporting NGU-Group with brand direction and product integrity, while NGU-Group handles franchise development, market adaptation, and operations on the ground.
A Bold New Chapter for Benny and Foodtastic
Foodtastic’s international expansion strategy is taking shape as the company looks beyond Canada to new markets hungry for authentic and established restaurant concepts. The Benny announcement is a flagship moment, underscoring Foodtastic’s ambitions to become a global player in the food service industry.
“Rotisseries Benny holds a special place in the hearts of many Quebec families,” said Mammas in a statement. “Bringing that tradition to a global audience is an exciting next chapter for the brand.”
As NGU-Group prepares to launch in Shanghai later this year, the broader Canadian restaurant industry will be watching closely. If successful, the move could open the door for more homegrown restaurant concepts to scale internationally, particularly in high-growth markets like China.
About Foodtastic
Headquartered in Quebec, Foodtastic is one of Canada’s leading restaurant franchisors. With over 1,200 locations and a portfolio of 27 brands, the company has become a significant force in the Canadian restaurant landscape. Its strategy focuses on combining local brand heritage with operational scale, enabling the growth of both regional favourites and national powerhouses.
Through bold leadership, strategic partnerships, and an eye for innovation, Foodtastic continues to grow its influence both at home and abroad.
