Americans love their pizza, so it's no surprise that 35 percent of menus across the country feature pizza as an option for customers, according to QSR. In fact, The Atlantic reports that Americans alone consume about a third of the world's pizza, spending $37 billion on the oven-baked pies each year. The country's universal, insatiable desire for cheese and marinara has helped keep pizza franchises profitable. Likewise, pizza's widespread appeal makes it easier for newcomers in the franchise business to establish a profitable store. These quickly growing pizza franchises are primed for growth and could make ideal franchising partners for pizza lovers across the country.
A slice above the rest
Blaze Fast Fire'd Pizza is the one of the fastest growing pizza franchises in the nation. The brand owns 40 units, will have 125 built by the end of 2015 and has a total of 315 stores in the planning stages, according to CNBC. Consumers have reacted positively to Blaze's competitive price points and custom pizza options. Currently the franchise is operating in Washington, D.C. and 15 states, including California, Michigan, New York and Louisiana.
Other well-established pizza franchises include MOD Pizza and The Pizza Studio. MOD Pizza, just over five years old, recently opened up its doors to the franchise model. They currently have 22 franchise stores operating in the United States, with 10 more stores in the works. MOD Pizza prioritizes maintaining its family-oriented culture as it grows. The brand is focusing its franchising efforts on attracting dedicated brand ambassadors over large franchising firms, according to the company website.
Pieology attracts customers with a quick pizza cook time (four minutes) and wide selection of free fresh ingredients. The store currently runs 32 stores, 10 of which are company owned, and has over 400 additional stores in the pipeline. Investors who choose to work with Pieology will enjoy a simple franchising approval process and short training period. This rapid training allows to franchisees to open their stores to the public as quickly as possible.
Rising to the top
Like Blaze, The Pizza Studio appeals to choice-loving customers looking to build their own pizzas. Unlike MOD Pizza, The Pizza Studio's approach toward growth is all about volume. The store's website notes that ideal franchisees for The Pizza Studio are experienced, multi-store franchisees, and prospective franchisees are required to invest in a minimum of at least 10 stores. The brand currently operates 15 stores in Minnesota, Arizona, Alaska and other states, with 13 additional units are under construction.
Your Pie has taken a more controlled, regional approach to expansion. The pizza shop currently owns 21 stores in only four states (Florida, Tennessee, Georgia and South Carolina) and has 16 franchising agreements waiting in the wings. This franchise, like many other quickly growing pizza franchises, is part of a new trend of fast-casual pizzerias. High quality agreements and stylish interiors draw the daily lunch crowd over college students making late-night delivery orders.
Uncle Maddio's Pizza Joint brings in the fast casual customer with a broader menu than its competitors. Visitors can enjoy paninis and salads in addition to the store's pizza offerings, according to CNBC. Uncle Maddio's currently has 25 stores in 15 states, with more than 200 additional units down the line. When it comes to franchising, Uncle Maddio's prioritizes franchisees that are willing to identify with its optimistic, hard-working corporate culture. The brand hosts videos on its website to give potential franchisees an idea of what it would be like to run their own Uncle Maddio's location.