Good Earth Coffeehouse has announced plans to expand by moving into abandoned Starbucks locations across Canada.

The company plans to focus on former Starbucks locations in Toronto, Southwestern Ontario, the B.C. Lower Mainland and Halifax. The selected locations will create opportunities for Good Earth franchisees to grow, prosper and serve the needs of their communities, said the company.

According to Good Earth, the Starbucks closures will change the Canadian coffee landscape, leaving many communities and neighourhoods without a local coffeehouse. Good Earth views the situation as an opportunity to bring more community-minded coffeehouses to Canadians.

“While some brands are shrinking and others are consolidating, we are stepping up to serve communities,” said Michael Going, the chain’s founder and CEO.

Good Earth has assigned Greenwood Realty and Stan Boniferro, along with Michael Kehoe of Fairfield Commercial Real Estate, and consultant Warren Smagaren to work with landlords and developers in identifying sites suitable for conversions under the chain’s banner.

“This unique opportunity in a competitive landscape offers excellent partnership possibilities for investors looking for multi-unit franchises and single-unit owner-operators alike,” said Gerry Docherty, Good Earth’s president and chief operating officer.

Good Earth’s locations offer ethically sourced coffee and fresh food. The company seeks to enhance community interaction while focusing on environmental responsibility.

Photo: CNW Group/Good Earth