CARSTAR Canada launched its Impact 2026 conference in Halifax on August 18, bringing together franchisees, staff, and vendor partners for three days of training, networking, and fundraising in support of Cystic Fibrosis Canada.
- Event Details: Impact 2026 conference runs August 18-20 at Halifax Convention Centre with training, networking, vendor expo, and awards gala
- Charitable Impact: Opening day Seaside Stride Charity Walk raised $10,050 for Cystic Fibrosis Canada
- Leadership Focus: Keynote speaker Mike Downie emphasized storytelling, organizational culture, and leadership development for franchisees
- Recognition: Jessy Dufresne and Eric Henault of CARSTAR Rawdon and CARSTAR St-Félix-de-Valois named 2026 Franchisees of the Year
- Network Purpose: Conference aims to unite franchisees, share industry insights, and inspire greater business and community impact
CARSTAR Canada has opened its Impact 2026 conference in Halifax. The event brings franchisees, staff and vendor partners together for three days of training, networking and fundraising.
The conference began Aug. 18 at the Halifax Convention Centre with the Seaside Stride Charity Walk in support of Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Participants raised $10,050.
Dave Foster, senior vice-president of operations and development for CARSTAR Canada, opened the evening program with remarks on leadership, resilience and the role franchisees play in their businesses and communities.
Damien Reyna, chief operating officer of Driven Brands Collision Group, followed with a North American industry outlook and a discussion of priorities for the CARSTAR network.
Filmmaker and storyteller Mike Downie (pictured) delivered the keynote address, focusing on storytelling, organizational culture and leadership. Downie is known for projects including The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal and Secret Path.
CARSTAR also named Jessy Dufresne and Eric Henault of CARSTAR Rawdon and CARSTAR St-Félix-de-Valois its 2026 Franchisees of the Year.
“Impact is more than just a conference. It’s an opportunity to come together as a network, learn from one another, and leave inspired to make an even greater difference in our businesses and communities,” Foster said.
The opening day concluded with an East Coast-themed event at Pavilion 23 on the Halifax waterfront.
Impact 2026 continues through Aug. 20 with educational sessions, a vendor expo, fundraising events and an awards gala.
Check out all the photos from the event so far:
