Osmow’s Shawarma, a fast-casual Mediterranean chain founded in Ontario, is preparing to open a new restaurant in Hanover in the third week of August.
The Hanover location is part of Osmo’s ongoing expansion across Canada, where the brand has experienced rapid growth over the past several years, according to Retail Insider. Back in 2017, the chain operated 31 restaurants; today, it has more than 200 locations across the country. Franchise owner Pragnesh Patel tells What Now Toronto that the Hanover restaurant will open later this month and mentioned another new site in St. John’s, Newfoundland, expected to launch in early September.
Under the leadership of President and COO Bernadette Osmow, who returned to the family business after gaining experience outside, the company has focused on convenience, quality, and customizable fresh menu options to attract a broad customer base. The brand’s growth shows no signs of slowing down.
“We expect to reach about 235 by the end of the year,” Osmow tells Retail Insider earlier this year. “We’re definitely continuing to grow. Within Canada, we believe the market can support up to 500 restaurants. In the U.S., we currently have six restaurants, and we’re looking to expand that reach. Both countries are operating independently.”
Osmow’s has worked to make shawarma more mainstream and accessible, moving it beyond the traditional “hole-in-the-wall” concept to a fast-casual model that emphasizes fresh ingredients and customization. Locations are often situated near homes and workplaces to offer quick and healthy dining options for a variety of customers.
The upcoming Hanover location marks another step in the brand’s mission to bring its popular shawarma and Mediterranean flavors to new communities across Canada.