Little Caesars Partners with Michigan State University for Pizza Expansion

Little Caesars Partners with Michigan State University

Little Caesars, a major player in the global pizza market, known for its unique offerings such as HOT-N-READY® pizza and Crazy Bread®, recently announced an exciting partnership with Michigan State University (MSU). This collaboration is set to enhance the gaming and sporting experience for Spartan fans this fall.

The partnership launched officially on August 29, 2025, coinciding with the season opener of MSU's football game. Little Caesars will now operate at three significant venues on campus, including Spartan Stadium, Munn Ice Arena, and Breslin Center. Combining high-quality pizza with the energy of college sports, this initiative is poised to create unforgettable moments for fans attending games and events.

Derek Turowski, a seasoned franchisee and proud MSU graduate, is at the helm of this endeavor. His family's legacy in the franchise world began when his father opened various restaurants, and Derek has built upon that foundation, managing numerous locations and now expanding his reach with Little Caesars. Currently overseeing more than 16 restaurants in Michigan, Turowski's passion for quality service and delicious food aligns beautifully with the ethos of Little Caesars.

Turowski stated, "As an alumnus of MSU, I am proud to expand Little Caesars into the campus and bring quality pizza to all green-and-white fans." His dedication exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that Little Caesars seeks to foster in its franchisees, showcasing the brand's growth and commitment to serving communities throughout Michigan.

Bryan Ketelhut, Vice President of Franchising and Business Development at Little Caesars, emphasized the significance of this partnership. He noted, "As a Michigan-based brand, we're excited to connect with the Spartan community and bring our pizza to fans across all three MSU stadiums. This partnership reflects our commitment to growing in key markets while delivering the quality, value, and convenience fans know and love."

This strategic expansion forms part of Little Caesars' broader mission to cultivate relationships in non-traditional venues, such as universities, water parks, airports, and stadiums. The company is actively pursuing qualified franchise operators to enhance their presence in target markets across the United States. With a clear vision in mind, Little Caesars continues its quest to adapt to consumer needs and capitalize on opportunities within the booming pizza industry.

In addition to its core offerings, Little Caesars focuses on community engagement through efforts like the Love Kitchen®, which has served over 4 million meals nationwide, and has developed programs aimed at supporting veterans and first responders. These community-oriented initiatives highlight the brand's commitment to social responsibility and its founding principles of value and quality.

Little Caesars traces its roots back to 1959, starting from a single, family-owned restaurant. Today, it stands as the third-largest pizza chain globally, with a presence in every U.S. state and several countries and territories. The company continues to innovate in the pizza segment, known for unique features such as the Pizza Portal® pickup, a heated, self-service mobile order pickup system. This combination of innovation and dedication to quality sets Little Caesars apart as they continue to grow in the competitive pizza market.

In sum, the partnership between Little Caesars and MSU is a promising venture that not only adds to the student and fan experience but also illustrates the brand's focus on growth, community connection, and commitment to providing delightful culinary experiences. As sports seasons unfold, fans can look forward to enjoying the brand’s offerings, making every game day memorable. This partnership signifies the ongoing evolution of Little Caesars and its determination to remain a household name in pizza and sporting events alike.