From poutine and Nanaimo bars to butter tarts and tourtière, Canada has its fair share of iconic dishes.
But none capture the spirit of Canada quite like the beavertail.
Recently, the brand announced its plans to open 24 new locations nationwide in 2022. For those who’ve never had the treat, a beavertail is a distinctly Canadian treat made from wheat flour that’s hand-stretched to resemble a beaver’s tail. Next, it’s deep-fried to golden perfection, dipped in sugar, and then topped with a variety of toppings which usually include candy, chocolate, or fruit.
BeaverTails amassed international attention during President Obama’s 2009 trip to Ottawa after he famously indulged in a specially made ‘ObamaTail.’ His version was coated with sugar and cinnamon and topped with maple syrup and a chocolate flavoured ‘O.’
Founded by Grant and Pam Hooker back in 1978, the couple opened the first BeaverTails shop in Ottawa’s ByWard Market and Rideau Canal soon after. The brand has gone on to become a global franchise with more than 180 locations including Japan, United Arab Emirates, France, and South Korea.
While many well-known food establishments have had to permanently close shop due to the financial strain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, BeaverTails continues to thrive.
Years ago, the brand’s initial expansion saw the opening of mobile units in trailers and trucks in tourist-driven locations including popular ski resorts like Mont-Tremblant and Blue Mountain. For 2022, the company’s focus will be on opening more brick-and-mortar type locations and the continuing development of “community shops” most often found in suburbs.
Following a successful 2021 which saw the opening of 20 new stores, 2022 looks to be just as lucrative for the pastry brand with new locations planned in Calgary, Edmonton, Milton, Burlington, Montreal, Mississauga, Hamilton, and Oakville.