#United States #Marco's Pizza #Toledo #Pizza Franchise #Store Expansion

Marco's Pizza Accelerates Growth in 2025

Marco's Pizza, one of the fastest-growing pizza brands in the United States, has recorded a formidable first half of 2025, achieving the remarkable milestone of opening 41 new stores. This expansion reflects not just a growing appetite for their signature pizzas, but also a well-thought-out development strategy that emphasizes franchisee empowerment and market expansion.

Strategic Expansion and Franchisee Commitment

Gerardo Flores, Chief Development Officer at Marco's, remarked, "We entered 2025 with momentum from a very intentional development strategy – and that pipeline is now turning into stores." The focus on real estate has been pivotal, as the company has reiterated the importance of site selection in achieving successful openings. This strategic approach not only positions Marco's for a competitive edge but also aligns with their commitment to franchisee growth.

Earlier this year, the return of Joe Stephens as Vice President of Real Estate brought a wealth of experience to the table. Stephens, a 13-year veteran with Marco's, is integral in guiding franchisees through site selections and other real estate decisions to ensure strong performance in key markets. Marco's data-driven strategy has proven effective. By leveraging predictive tools and consumer insights, the brand is actively identifying markets that are ripe for expansion, moving beyond traditional site-selection methods.

Franchisee-Fueled Growth

Franchisee support remains crucial for Marco's ongoing success. Approximately 65% of agreements signed in 2024 originated from existing franchise owners, highlighting the confidence in the brand's growth and its potential for profitability. To bolster expansion efforts further, Marco's has recently introduced a Franchise Development Royalty Incentive Program that aims to reduce barriers for qualified multi-unit owners, including incentives that can initiate at 0%. This added layer of support complements real estate and operational assistance, providing an optimal pathway for potential franchisees.

International Expansion Progress

Alongside domestic growth, Marco's is also achieving significant milestones internationally. The brand recently celebrated a year since the opening of its first location in Mexico and ten years in Puerto Rico. With Grupo Pizza Amantes SA de CV as its master franchise partner in Mexico, Marco's is on track to establish 3 to 4 additional locations by the end of the year. As of today, the brand operates 66 locations across Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the Bahamas, with ambitious plans for further developments in Latin America and Canada.

A Culture-Centric Approach

At the heart of Marco's Pizza's strategy is its unwavering commitment to a 'People First, Mission Always' philosophy. This culture-driven approach not only fosters employee satisfaction but also enriches the communities they serve. Through initiatives like the We're Golden development program, franchisees are trained to cultivate an environment that encourages personal growth and team empowerment in nearly 700 stores by the end of 2025.

In addition to franchisee support, the Marco's Pizza Foundation has made substantial contributions toward community welfare in areas like education, hunger prevention, and workforce development. In April, the foundation proudly announced a $317,000 donation to Junior Achievement USA, subsequently increasing this figure beyond $530,000, thus surpassing funding objectives for community engagement.

Stephanie Moseley, President of the Marco's Pizza Foundation, states, “As a franchise-driven brand, we know the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives. We're proud to invest in the next generation of business leaders and to see our franchisees and customers embrace this mission with heart and purpose.”

The Future of Marco's Pizza

With a robust expansion plan and an unwavering focus on franchisee success, Marco's Pizza not only enhances its customer reach but also solidifies its reputation as a leader in the pizza industry. For individuals interested in franchise opportunities, further information can be found on their website or through direct contact.

In conclusion, the impressive growth of Marco's Pizza serves as a testament to its strategic vision, commitment to franchisee success, and a culture rooted in community engagement. Their focus on both local and international markets signifies a bright future as they continue to expand their delicious pizza offerings.