#United States #Columbia #Marco's Pizza #restaurant growth

Marco's Pizza Expands Its Presence in Columbia, Missouri

Marco's Pizza, recognized as one of the fastest-growing pizza chains in the United States, has recently announced a pivotal three-unit franchise agreement in Columbia, Missouri. This expansion marks a strategic step toward enhancing its footprint in the region, driven by a dedicated ownership group. At the helm of this new development are franchise co-owners Russ Anderson and Betzayda 'Betzy' Alvarez-Anderson, who bring invaluable experience in the pizza industry. They are joined by Klayton Anderson, Betzy's husband and Russ's nephew, who will oversee the operations at the new sites.

Scheduled to open its first location in October 2026 at 911 Rain Forest Parkway, Marco's Pizza is set to embark on a broader regional development initiative across mid-Missouri. This location is not just a new restaurant; it symbolizes a significant commitment to building a presence in a growing market where quality pizza options are limited.

Operator Partnership for Sustainable Growth

Gerardo Flores, Chief Development Officer at Marco's Pizza, shared insights on the brand's philosophy surrounding franchise operations. "This agreement exemplifies the kind of partnership that fosters sustainable growth for our brand. Russ, Betzy, and Klayton possess a unique blend of operational experience and local engagement, assuring us they will successfully establish our presence in Missouri."

The experience of the ownership team is noteworthy. Russ Anderson is the founder of Anderson Homes, the region's leading homebuilder, boasting extensive backgrounds in real estate and operational management. Betzy Alvarez-Anderson leverages her nearly a decade of experience with a well-known pizza brand, where she ascended through various roles to eventually reach a corporate position. Klayton's experience as a multi-unit general manager in the pizza field complements the team well, infusing their operations with expertise and passion.

"What attracted us to Marco's was the authentic experience behind their products," Betzy noted. "While other brands may cut corners, Marco's takes pride in making fresh dough every day, using only high-quality, never-frozen ingredients. This commitment to preparation and quality ensures that customers receive the same great product, no matter which Marco's location they visit."

Establishing Roots in Columbia

The decision to focus on Columbia was driven by the local business climate and the significant opportunity present in Missouri, which has a relatively small Marco's footprint currently. After examining various pizza and quick-service brands, the Anderson team concluded that Marco's consistently excelled in both taste and quality — a combination they believed could thrive in a region lacking proper representation of the brand. Their approach involves owning and developing sites rather than leasing, demonstrating their long-term commitment to the Columbia area

To encourage franchise growth, Marco's is actively promoting its Franchise Development Royalty Incentive Program. This initiative is designed to reduce barriers for qualified multi-unit operators, offering initial royalty incentives starting at 0% and a wealth of support in areas like real estate and construction. This streamlined process is aimed at guiding franchisees through an abundance of resources toward successful expansion.

A Bright Future for Marco's Pizza

The response to these franchise opportunities has been favorable, as reflected by the Marco's Franchise Disclosure Document indicating that the top 25% of franchised locations achieved an average unit volume (AUV) of $1.28 million for the year 2025. This impressive figure underscores the potential vibrancy of Marco's in new markets.

As Marco's Pizza continues to grow and reach more communities, the emphasis remains on delivering an unparalleled pizza experience. From its inception in 1978 by Italian immigrant Pasquale Giammarco, Marco's has remained dedicated to crafting pizzas with freshly made dough and a signature three-cheese blend. With over 1,200 locations across 35 states and additional territories, Marco's relentless pursuit of quality has earned numerous accolades, including recognition as America's Favorite Restaurant in the Limited-Service Pizza category. As the new Columbia locations prepare to open their doors, the excitement for both Marco's and the local community is palpable. For additional information about franchising opportunities, potential franchisees can explore Marco's website or contact their franchise development team.

Marco's Pizza is poised to alter the pizza landscape in Columbia, and it's a venture that seems destined for success. With a strong operational foundation and a team committed to quality, the future looks promising for Marco's and pizza lovers in Missouri alike.