Marco's Pizza Expands Its Presence in Southern California with New Franchise Agreements

Marco's Pizza Expands Its Southern California Footprint

Marco's Pizza, recognized as one of the fastest-growing pizza chains in the United States, has announced an exciting new franchise agreement that will see the addition of 12 new locations across Southern California. This move marks a significant step in the brand's ambitious growth strategy, aimed at solidifying its presence on the West Coast.

The franchise agreement has been signed with Baljit Gill, an experienced multi-unit operator who has spent over two decades successfully navigating the franchise landscape. Gill's journey began in engineering, where he gained invaluable skills that would later benefit his entrepreneurial ventures. After working in the corporate sector, he transitioned into franchising in 1998 with Subway, eventually growing a family portfolio that includes over 30 locations. Today, he operates 21 Subway sites alongside one Auntie Anne's store.

During the pandemic, Gill identified a surge in pizza demand and decided to diversify his investments. His interest in Marco's Pizza was piqued by the brand’s strong franchisee support system, collaborative culture, and a well-developed operational model that allows franchisees to maintain leadership and creativity while adhering to a successful framework.

What started as an initial commitment to four units has now expanded to 12 locations. Currently, three Marco's Pizza units are operational in Upland, Fontana, and Hesperia, with two additional stores in the pipeline in Yucaipa and Highland, expected to be operational soon. The remaining units are in the site selection stage throughout Southern California, showcasing Gill's confidence in the brand's potential for long-term growth.

Gill expressed his satisfaction with Marco's Pizza, stating, "As a multi-unit operator, you look for a brand that combines structure with opportunity. Marco's offers a robust foundation, comprehensive support, and a collaborative team that truly partners with franchisees. This balance enables us to exercise our creativity within a well-established system designed for growth."

Franchising at Marco's Pizza remains a family affair for Gill. His wife manages the Subway portfolio, while their daughter oversees Marco's operations, and their son is beginning to engage in the business. Gill utilizes his engineering background to ensure operational discipline, creativity, and structure across all franchises.

Gerardo Flores, the Chief Development Officer of Marco's Pizza, praised Gill’s strategic and disciplined approach: "Baljit exemplifies the type of experienced, growth-minded operator we're proud to partner with. His family-led infrastructure and deep understanding enhance his potential for growth in Southern California, and we are excited to aid his continued expansion."

Marco's Pizza's growth strategy includes focused outreach to experienced multi-unit franchisees who seek a scalable platform with promising long-term potential. The company provides substantial development support, technology tools for territory identification, and assistance with real estate processes, construction management, and operational field support.

As the brand continues to flourish, prospects are recognizing the business opportunity Marco's Pizza presents. Notably, their Franchise Disclosure Document reported an Average Unit Volume (AUV) of $1.3 million for the top 25% of franchised stores in 2024, enhancing the appeal of franchise ownership.

Marco's Pizza, founded in 1978 in Toledo, Ohio, has rapidly gained momentum, attaining significant milestones along its journey. The company is now operational in over 1,200 locations across 35 states, with additional branches in Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, and Mexico. Highlighted as America's Favorite Restaurant in the Limited-Service Pizza category, Marco's continues to strive for excellence through high-quality pizzas and innovative franchise opportunities.

For a deeper insight into Marco’s Pizza’s franchise opportunities, interested parties can visit Marco's Franchising or reach out to Brad Smith for more details.

As the West Coast welcomes more Marco's Pizza outlets, the brand is poised for significant growth, establishing stronger connections within California communities while elevating its franchisee network.