The California-based pizza brand is looking to more than double within the next five years.
Pieology, in partnership with Shanghai-based TZG Partners, has opened its first restaurant in downtown Shanghai, China, with plans to open a second location in the Jing’an district on August 18.
The alliance between Pieology and TZG Partners, a global investment firm specializing in China-related businesses, was announced in October 2019. Along with this partnership, Pieology expects its other master franchise agreements in Mexico and Spain to help the brand double in size within the next five years.
“The store is a living, breathing example of Pieology’s brand purpose of serving individuality, with a custom loyalty program, regionalized crust and topping offerings, and a one-of-a-kind store experience that resonates with the residents of Shanghai,” said Pieology CEO, Gregg Imamoto. “We’re very confident in TZG Partners and the team it’s built to strategically grow our brand long-term.”
Pieology offers unique menu items for Chinese customers, including a bamboo charcoal thin crust, as well as kimchi as a topping option. The new store also offers customers both digital and analog games to play, as well as artwork by local artists.
“We’re excited to partner with Pieology and grow the brand in China,” said BC Park, CEO of Pieology China. “Leveraging our teams’ deep experience in pizza and restaurant operations and Pieology’s strategy and high-quality product offerings, we’ll be able to create a unique market experience for our local customers and bring make-your-own pizza to life across China.”
