OTTAWA — Prime Minister Stephen Harper recently weighed in on the ongoing Wheat Board bill controversy, stating the government has the right to change the law and intends to proceed with the bill that will dismantle the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) monopoly.

The Federal court in Winnipeg has ruled that the government violated the Canadian Wheat Board Act by not seeking a plebiscite with farmers before introducing legislation to end the CWB monopoly.

DENVER — Smashburger, a Denver-based chain, is coming to Canada, with the first stores expected to open in Calgary next year and more openings planned for Calgary and Edmonton in the future.  

The first restaurants will be corporate, but the company is targeting additional growth across Canada and is looking for experienced multi-unit operators to become franchise partners in all provinces. 

CALGARY — Calgary-based multi-brand restaurant owner Franworks Group of Cos. has offered US$22.75 million to acquire the bankrupt Boston-based Elephant & Castle Group Inc. (MECG) and its 14 related subsidiaries.

The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts in Boston is scheduled to consider the proposed bidding procedures Nov. 29 for the British-style pub operator, which names Original Joe's Acquisition Corp. as its stalking-horse bidder.

LETHBRIDGE, Alta. — Just as Canadians are preparing to observe Remembrance Day, there is news McDonald’s employees at a Lethbridge, Alta., location have been banned from wearing poppies during their shift.