In a world of dynamic changes and evolving tastes, Donatos Pizza stands as a beacon of consistency, providing premium pizza since 1963. However, we remain committed to seeking new avenues to serve the best pizza to broader audiences across the U.S.
Remarkable Growth from 2022
Donatos Pizza is continuing our growth after opening 55 new locations in 2022, including five traditional outlets and 50 strategic partnerships, showcasing an innovative approach to expanding our footprint.
With an impressive legacy spanning over half the states in the U.S., we ventured into six key states during this expansion. These states included Iowa, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. This aggressive growth strategy and commitment to our franchise partners align with our core values; make the best pizza, hire great people, and promote community goodwill.
Expanding in North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Arkansas
In 2023, we have seen active growth in the Southeast markets of the United States. This February, we set our sights on the vibrant Charlotte, North Carolina market. Our first location will open in nearby Ft. Mill in early 2024 with a new franchise group that is planning to open additional locations in this area. Greater Charlotte has an incredible opportunity for expansion of additional stores and franchise partners that we have been actively pursuing. This move into Charlotte supports our impressive expansion plans and speaks to our commitment to continue building our ever-widening audience.
Donatos Pizza made another substantial expansion in February this year by signing a 10-store agreement in Oklahoma through a franchise owner group led by restaurant industry veteran Pattye Moore, former Board Chairman and interim CEO at Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, along with operating partners Matt and Will McLain, the sons of former Sonic President Scott McLain. The first location of this agreement opened in Edmond this summer, marking the beginning of our expansion into Oklahoma. This will support growth in Oklahoma and will also introduce Donatos Pizza to the Northwest Arkansas region.
As we continue to expand into new states and areas, we make premium pizza experiences readily accessible to more people and promote to more communities, consistently securing Donatos Pizza as a rewarding and reliable franchise opportunity.
A Winning Partnership with the Cincinnati Bengals
Football season is here! We’ve expanded into the football world, as there's nothing quite like the thrill of cheering on your favorite team with a delicious piece of Donatos Pizza in hand. In August 2023, the Cincinnati Bengals declared Donatos Pizza as their official pizza partner. This partnership is great news for fans as they can now enjoy Donatos Pizza at 12 concession stands throughout Paycor Stadium during the season. The partnership solidifies Donatos Pizza as a top choice for pizza enthusiasts not only in Ohio, but also nationwide.
A Piece of the Future
These expansion initiatives highlight our commitment to sharing and providing the best pizza, one location at a time. At Donatos Pizza, we recognize that the pizza market is also expanding and stand ready to embrace the future with open arms. As the restaurant industry and pizza market evolve, so does technology. From pioneering automation and innovation solutions to constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible, Donatos Pizza is committed to staying on the cutting-edge of the industry in all of our new and existing locations.
The thriving pizza market, paired with our multiple expansion plans, secures Donatos Pizza as an established, ever-growing franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to venture into the restaurant industry. If you've ever dreamed of joining a renowned pizza brand with a proven track record and a passion for quality, now is the perfect time.
Are you ready to explore the future with us? Contact us today to learn more about opening a Donatos Pizza in your area and joining our innovative journey.