Marco's Pizza Aiming to Open 80+ New Outlets in 2026 Following Strong Growth in 2025
In a strategic move to enhance its footprint, Marco's Pizza, one of the fastest-growing pizza brands in the United States, has set ambitious goals for 2026. The company announced plans to open over 80 new outlets, following a year of impressive growth in 2025, where more than 60 stores were launched. With careful planning and innovative strategies, Marco's Pizza is not only aiming for rapid expansion in domestic markets but also looking at international growth opportunities.
Marco's Pizza has had a remarkable year. The company entered the New Jersey market and signed a significant development agreement for New Mexico, tapping into promising new growth avenues. Their international endeavors were also noteworthy, celebrating milestones in Mexico and Puerto Rico while actively exploring new territories across the Caribbean and Latin America.
The company's growth strategy has included diversification into ghost kitchens and non-traditional real estate formats, allowing them to leverage flexible growth opportunities. Significant hires at the executive level, including a new VP of Franchise Growth and a CFO, indicate a focus on solidifying their leadership team to support this expansion.
One of the critical areas of success in 2025 was operational efficiency. Strategic vendor partnerships have led to reduced supply chain costs, enhancing their operational excellence. Furthermore, advancements in the digital realm have significantly improved the customer experience journey and have earned Marco's accolades, including a Gold Level Award for their revamped ordering platform and website.
Heading into 2026, Marco's Pizza is set to focus on scalable growth. Their target to add over 80 new stores is complemented by an emphasis on enhancing franchisee support and operational consistency. Gerardo Flores, the Chief Development Officer, emphasizes the importance of thoughtful expansion and preparation for sustainable long-term operations. The company not only aims for new openings in traditional markets but is also excited about international and alternative formats.
Marco's has several key initiatives queued for 2026:
1. Operations Center of Excellence: New initiatives are being developed to boost training consistency and performance as the brand continues to grow.
2. Next-Generation Digital Experience: This will include updates to the loyalty program and the exploration of AI-driven ordering capabilities, further integrating technology into their operations.
3. Menu Innovation Pipeline: With guidance from culinary leaders, Marco's plans to introduce new product offerings to keep the menu fresh and appealing to customers.
4. Global Growth: Marco’s continuing pursuit of expansion abroad, especially focusing on Mexico and the Caribbean, highlights their global aspirations and down-to-earth approach.
To enhance access for potential franchise owners, Marco's introduced the Franchise Development Royalty Incentive Program. This program is designed to ease barriers for multi-unit owners, offering early-stage royalty incentives and comprehensive support during real estate and construction phases. This strategy only strengthens Marco's competitive position in the market.
Marco's efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2025, the brand garnered various awards, such as the highest FUND Score among fast-casual pizza brands and being recognized as America's favorite pizza chain. Their recognition also extends to achieving a good position in rankings by prominent lifestyle and culinary publications, reinforcing their brand strength.
In conclusion, Marco's Pizza's preparations for 2026 indicates a well-thought-out strategy fueled by prior successes and a commitment to innovation. From expanding their presence in emerging regions to effectively leveraging digital tools, Marco's is set to increase its reach while continuing to delight pizza lovers everywhere. With a robust framework for growth and a vision that incorporates sustainability and franchisee support, Marco's is undoubtedly a brand to watch in the coming years.
Key Highlights from 2025
Marco's Pizza has had a remarkable year. The company entered the New Jersey market and signed a significant development agreement for New Mexico, tapping into promising new growth avenues. Their international endeavors were also noteworthy, celebrating milestones in Mexico and Puerto Rico while actively exploring new territories across the Caribbean and Latin America.
The company's growth strategy has included diversification into ghost kitchens and non-traditional real estate formats, allowing them to leverage flexible growth opportunities. Significant hires at the executive level, including a new VP of Franchise Growth and a CFO, indicate a focus on solidifying their leadership team to support this expansion.
One of the critical areas of success in 2025 was operational efficiency. Strategic vendor partnerships have led to reduced supply chain costs, enhancing their operational excellence. Furthermore, advancements in the digital realm have significantly improved the customer experience journey and have earned Marco's accolades, including a Gold Level Award for their revamped ordering platform and website.
2026 Vision and Strategy
Heading into 2026, Marco's Pizza is set to focus on scalable growth. Their target to add over 80 new stores is complemented by an emphasis on enhancing franchisee support and operational consistency. Gerardo Flores, the Chief Development Officer, emphasizes the importance of thoughtful expansion and preparation for sustainable long-term operations. The company not only aims for new openings in traditional markets but is also excited about international and alternative formats.
Upcoming Initiatives
Marco's has several key initiatives queued for 2026:
1. Operations Center of Excellence: New initiatives are being developed to boost training consistency and performance as the brand continues to grow.
2. Next-Generation Digital Experience: This will include updates to the loyalty program and the exploration of AI-driven ordering capabilities, further integrating technology into their operations.
3. Menu Innovation Pipeline: With guidance from culinary leaders, Marco's plans to introduce new product offerings to keep the menu fresh and appealing to customers.
4. Global Growth: Marco’s continuing pursuit of expansion abroad, especially focusing on Mexico and the Caribbean, highlights their global aspirations and down-to-earth approach.
To enhance access for potential franchise owners, Marco's introduced the Franchise Development Royalty Incentive Program. This program is designed to ease barriers for multi-unit owners, offering early-stage royalty incentives and comprehensive support during real estate and construction phases. This strategy only strengthens Marco's competitive position in the market.
Remarkable Recognition
Marco's efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2025, the brand garnered various awards, such as the highest FUND Score among fast-casual pizza brands and being recognized as America's favorite pizza chain. Their recognition also extends to achieving a good position in rankings by prominent lifestyle and culinary publications, reinforcing their brand strength.
In conclusion, Marco's Pizza's preparations for 2026 indicates a well-thought-out strategy fueled by prior successes and a commitment to innovation. From expanding their presence in emerging regions to effectively leveraging digital tools, Marco's is set to increase its reach while continuing to delight pizza lovers everywhere. With a robust framework for growth and a vision that incorporates sustainability and franchisee support, Marco's is undoubtedly a brand to watch in the coming years.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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