Franchising offers an accessible path to business ownership, especially for entrepreneurs eager to combine independence with a proven model. Among the many ways to get involved in franchising, one model has continued to gain popularity among ambitious operators: multi-unit franchise ownership.
This approach goes beyond owning a single store. It’s a strategic move for entrepreneurs looking to scale their income, expand their influence, and build long-term equity. Multi-unit franchising is increasingly common in the restaurant industry, particularly in high-demand segments like pizza, because it allows owners to multiply success across several locations while leveraging operational efficiencies.
At Donatos Pizza, we’ve seen firsthand how multi-unit ownership can drive lasting impact, not just for our brand but also for the people who bring it to life. As a family-owned company with more than 60 years of pizza-making tradition—founded by Jim Grote in 1963 and now proudly led in part by Chief People Officer Jane Grote Abell—we’re honored to work with franchise partners who are passionate about quality, community, and long-term growth.
What Is Multi-Unit Franchise Ownership?
Multi-unit franchise ownership refers to a business model where a single franchise partner owns and operates more than one franchise location. Instead of focusing on just one unit, multi-unit franchise partners often oversee several stores within a region or across multiple markets.
There are typically two main ways entrepreneurs become multi-unit franchise partners:
- Start with one location and expand over time
- Sign an agreement up front to open multiple locations within a set timeframe
This model is popular in the food service industry, especially pizza franchises, as it helps franchise partners expand efficiently using proven systems. While multi-unit ownership requires more capital and a stronger management structure, it also offers greater growth potential and rewards.
The Benefits of Multi-Unit Franchise Ownership
Multi-unit franchising isn’t just about increasing store count—it’s about building a more scalable, resilient, and profitable business. Here are the top reasons many entrepreneurs are choosing this model:
Economies of Scale
When you own multiple locations, you can significantly reduce your operational costs per unit.
This includes:
- Lower per-unit marketing spend: Regional marketing strategies can support multiple locations at once
- Bulk purchasing power: Supplies, ingredients, and uniforms often cost less when purchased in higher quantities
- Shared resources: Management, HR, and even maintenance can be centralized or distributed across locations to save time and money
These efficiencies add up, leading to better margins and streamlined operations that aren't achievable with a single unit.
Higher ROI and Revenue Potential
With multiple locations operating under your management, your potential for earning and growing your overall return on investment (ROI) increases.
Here's why:
- Multiple revenue streams protect against fluctuations in individual store performance
- Strong locations can subsidize the early growth phase of newer ones
- Once the infrastructure is in place, each new unit becomes easier and more cost-effective to launch
In many cases, franchise partners find that their profit margins improve as they scale, provided their operations are tightly managed.
Operational Efficiencies and Delegation
Multi-unit franchise partners often transition from hands-on operators to strategic business leaders. This shift usually involves building a management team to oversee daily operations while establishing strong hiring and training systems. With these foundations in place, franchise partners can focus on growth, marketing, and improving financial performance.
Standardized processes, often supported by the franchisor, make it easier to replicate success across multiple units. Over time, this evolution from operator to overseer provides greater freedom and sets the stage for continued expansion.
Stronger Market Presence and Brand Impact
Owning multiple units in a concentrated area helps build a stronger local presence, leading to increased brand awareness, customer loyalty, and better positioning against competitors. It also enhances credibility with both customers and potential employees.
This regional dominance creates network effects, where each location boosts the visibility and traffic of the others, strengthening the overall impact of your business in the area.
More Attractive to Franchisors
Franchise brands see multi-unit franchise partners as ideal long-term collaborators because they already understand the brand and its operational model. These operators have proven their ability to run successful locations and are more likely to focus on sustainable, long-term success.
To encourage growth, many franchisors actively seek out multi-unit operators by offering enhanced support, preferred territories, and strategic incentives. This approach helps build stronger partnerships and drives mutual success.
Challenges to Consider
While multi-unit ownership offers many advantages, it also comes with its share of challenges. It's not a one-size-fits-all strategy, and it requires intentional planning, capital, and leadership.
Some common challenges include:
- Maintaining consistency across locations gets harder during rapid expansion
- Effective delegation is key—finding, training, and keeping skilled managers is critical
- Managing cash flow is vital. Expansion can boost profits, but upfront costs can strain finances without careful planning
- Running multiple locations takes time and effort, even if you’re not on the front lines
The most successful multi-unit franchise partners build strong systems and teams, allowing them to focus on high-level growth decisions rather than daily tasks.
Is Multi-Unit Ownership Right for You?
Multi-unit ownership isn’t just for large investors or corporate groups. Many successful operators started with a single location and scaled strategically over time. But how do you know if this model is right for you?
Here are a few indicators that multi-unit ownership might be a good fit:
- You have strong leadership skills and enjoy managing teams
- You’re financially prepared for additional investment and growth
- You want to build a long-term business with regional influence
- You're comfortable transitioning from day-to-day operator to high-level strategist
- You’re passionate about building something larger than a single store
If this sounds like you, it may be time to consider a model that gives you more control over your future and more opportunities to scale your success.
Why Choose Donatos Pizza as Your Franchise Partner?
At Donatos, we’re more than just a pizza brand—we’re a people-first company committed to supporting franchise partners as they grow. Founded by Jim Grote in 1963 and still proudly family-owned today under the leadership of Jane Grote Abell, we offer a unique blend of product quality, operational support, and growth potential.
With a focus on premium ingredients, innovative technology, and a culture of integrity, we provide a foundation for franchise partners who want to build lasting, meaningful businesses—whether through single-unit ownership or multi-unit expansion.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Multi-unit franchise ownership offers a powerful path to scale your business, increase your earning potential, and grow your influence in your community. With the right brand and the right support system, it’s a model that can deliver incredible rewards over time.
Are you ready to learn more about becoming a Donatos franchise partner?
Reach out to our team today to explore our available markets and see how you can grow with a brand that’s built for bold, long-term success.
Contact us online or call (844) 455-0689 today for more information about becoming a franchise partner!