A pizza chain known for its thin, crispy crust and generous, edge-to-edge toppings is currently rolling out an expansion plan that could change the fast-casual pizza scene for good! While most people prefer to grab their pizza from well-known national brands, this Ohio-born chain is growing swiftly, with plans to open more than 100 new locations, particularly in Texas cities like Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Austin.
The chain’s growth could change the pizza market significantly, introducing its distinctive style and welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere to new audiences. Its innovative approach and focus on fresh ingredients are already turning heads.
Determined
New locations will soon pop up from Texas to the East Coast, focusing on rapidly growing cities and suburban areas.
This chain is determined to establish itself as a household name in regions that have long been dominated by major pizza brands, using its distinctive recipes and strong customer loyalty to secure market share. By prioritizing quality and community, this chain is poised to challenge industry leaders and attract new customers in each market it enters.
Columbus, Ohio
The chain was founded in the 1960s in Columbus, Ohio, and has pioneered a distinctive regional pizza style that features a thin crust, cut into squares, and piled with toppings right to the edge.
It has long been cherished as a local favorite, but now, it is preparing to expand across the country, aiming to bring its delicious signature pizza to new markets across the U.S. Its history of craftsmanship and commitment to quality gives it a solid foundation for growth and a loyal following.
An Exciting New Menu Promotion
But what’s behind this growth? A focus on quality, convenience, and innovation. The chain has long combined local pizzeria craftsmanship with national brand tech and logistics, making it simple and easy for customers to enjoy its signature pizzas whether they’re dining in, picking up, or ordering delivery.
This expansion announcement follows the chain’s introduction of an exciting new $5 menu promotion. Called $5 Pizza Pals, the deal lets customers buy a large pizza at the regular price and add a side item for only $5. This and the chain’s commitment to fresh ingredients and unique flavor profiles are helping fuel its rapid growth.
Donatos Pizza
The chain in question is Donatos Pizza. With an ambitious plan to launch over 100 new locations, particularly in Texas, it’s gearing up to compete head-to-head with some of the biggest pizza brands, including Domino’s, Pizza Hut, and Papa John’s.
It stands out in the crowded pizza market thanks to its focus on fresh ingredients, unique flavor profiles, and edge-to-edge toppings, appealing to customers who want a fresher, higher-quality pizza experience than the big chains usually offer.
New Opportunities
Texas might be at the center of these expansion plans, but Donatos is also growing its presence across the country. The brand is eyeing new markets and strengthening its presence from the Midwest to the Southeast, including partnerships with sports and entertainment venues.
These collaborations will help the chain boost its brand visibility and customer engagement, making Donatos more accessible to a wider audience while opening up new opportunities for franchise owners and customers.
Signing Agreements
After signing agreements with two local franchise groups, the chain has announced plans to enter the Houston market by the end of this year. The deals were finalized in January and March.
Both of these groups are now working with local brokers to the perfect locations. Jeff Baldwin, Donatos’ vice president of development and franchising, shared details about their search efforts as the chain prepares to expand in Texas.
Preparing To Expand
Baldwin revealed that one franchise group is focusing on spots in the suburbs north of Houston, especially in the Tomball and The Woodlands areas, while the other is looking into locations southwest near Missouri City. Both groups are planning to open three locations initially.
A Huge Opportunity
“Obviously, we have a huge market and a huge opportunity in Greater Houston, and so we’re really focused on that area and bringing in high-quality partners, restaurant operators… that can open multiple stores and fill in the Houston market,” Baldwin revealed, according to The Sun.
Expanding Across The U.S.
As Donatos Pizza expands across the U.S., its commitment to fresh ingredients, creative menus, and strong franchise partnerships is winning over pizza fans nationwide.
With its plans to enter new communities, the chain could shake up the market and change how people enjoy pizza. Be on the lookout for Donatos, it is a brand that is poised for major growth and greater recognition in the next few years.