Jean Bédard, the visionary behind La Cage – Brasserie sportif, dropped a real bomb in the business world: he will leave his position in five years.
This big boss, who left his mark on Quebec at the crossroads between catering, sport and entrepreneurship, is beginning a transition that could disrupt the future of his empire.
But behind this resounding announcement lies a shock wave which is already shaking the ranks of the company. Jean Bédard, an essential figure in the industry, embodied much more than a simple boss for La Cage and the Grandio Group: he was its soul and heart.
His vision, his instinct and his audacity transformed a local business into a symbol of Quebec pride. The very idea that he could leave this position, however prepared he may be, raises concerns and internal turmoil.
The news of his departure in five years caused a real shock among employees, business partners and even loyal customers.
Jean Bédard was for many a reassuring figure, a leader whose presence seemed inseparable from the prosperity of the company.
“He always knew how to stay the course, even in the most turbulent times”confides an executive from the Grandio Group.
“It’s hard to imagine the company without him. »
But faithful to his methodical approach, Jean Bédard carefully prepares what follows. His succession plan is based on a solid foundation: the formation of a competent and committed team, including his sons, and a series of strategic acquisitions to ensure the continued growth of the Grandio Group.
Despite this rigorous organization, the departure of a captain of this stature inevitably raises questions about the future.
And what can we say about the French fries scandal, an episode revealing the demands and constant questioning that characterize Jean Bédard?
When his partner told him that the poutine served in Bordeaux (France) surpassed that of Quebec’s Cages, he could have brushed the criticism aside.
But true to his spirit of constant improvement, he chose to listen instead.
“It forced us to review our recipes,” he admitted with a humility rare among great leaders.
This gesture, as anecdotal as it may seem, illustrates Jean Bédard’s philosophy: never rest on your laurels.
Under his leadership, the Quebec Cages swapped their frozen potatoes for fresh fries and their powdered sauce for a refined sauce base.
What could have remained a simple culinary curiosity transformed into an opportunity to raise the brand’s standards.
As Jean Bédard begins the final chapters of his career, it is clear that his mark will remain engraved on the Quebec entrepreneurial landscape.
His visionary approach, his ability to transform challenges into opportunities and his unwavering commitment to Quebec make him an incomparable figure.
The Grandio Group may be ready to turn a new page, but Jean Bédard will have written the most significant chapters.
And if his departure leaves an immense void, he also leaves behind an organization better prepared than ever to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
For Quebec, he will forever remain a legend, both in business and in sport.
-For 30 years, Jean Bédard has been much more than a business manager. He is the architect of the metamorphosis of La Cage, going from a local chain to an iconic brand, both festive and deeply rooted in Quebec identity.
However, even at 61, the man is far from having given up on his ambitions. The next five years will be crucial: conquering new markets, culinary innovations, and above all, preparing a succession capable of preserving the Quebec soul of the Grandio Group, which brings together no less than 13 brands.
“I will do everything to ensure that it stays in Quebec”Jean Bédard told La Prese with a fervor that leaves no doubt about his intentions.
For him, there is no question that the Grandio Group, like other Quebec flagships, will fall into foreign hands.
This determination is part of a clear vision: to maintain the integrity and roots of the company while continuing to grow.
With plans to open in Europe, notably an expansion in France and serious reflections on London, Jean Bédard proves that he has lost none of his entrepreneurial enthusiasm.
Among the many projects still in the works, breaking into the London market represents perhaps the greatest challenge of his career.
“We come up with a concept that doesn’t exist, but it’s a big market, and real estate there is much more expensive,” he explains.
This project symbolizes both the ambition and prudence of Jean Bédard. At 61, he refuses to rush headlong, but he remains captivated by the idea of making La Cage shine beyond its traditional borders.
But this growth will not come at any price.
“At my age, I am more careful with my big projects. If I get into this, it’s another five years of work.”he confides, emphasizing the weight of his responsibilities.
Under his leadership, La Cage became an institution in Quebec. From promotions associated with the Montreal Canadiens to the introduction of reinvented dishes like “competition” poutine, Jean Bédard has constantly pushed the boundaries.
Even the opening of a Cage in Bordeaux in 2023 has proven that Quebec cuisine can appeal beyond the Atlantic.
The anecdote about French poutine, judged better than that of Quebec by his wife, clearly illustrates the spirit of questioning which still animates him.
“I’m like a coach who looks at his team and says to himself: ‘It seems to me that we have the players to make it to the Cup.’ »
This sporting metaphor sums up his state of mind well. Although he prepares his withdrawal, he will never completely walk away. His sons, already involved in the business, and a promising next generation seem ready to take over.
But Jean Bédard knows that the transition must be perfect to avoid any missteps.
Jean Bédard is not only a businessman. He is an emblematic figure of modern Quebec, combining passion for sport, entrepreneurial flair and respect for local traditions.
His departure planned in five years marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new era for the Grandio Group. In the meantime, this builder intends to add a few additional victories to his record.
His legacy is already engraved in history: that of a man who knew how to combine sport and business, while promoting Quebec throughout the world.
His departure is frightening, even if Bédard wants to be reassuring. His sons better tie up their hats. Because the pressure is immense.
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