The new sites are set to open in Texas, Florida, and Tennessee.
Blaze Pizza, the fast-casual pizza concept with restaurants across 41 states and six countries, is continuing to expand domestically. The signing of several multi-unit deals will see 16 new Blaze sites open in Texas, Florida, and Tennesse in the coming years.
The specific markets that Blaze Pizza plans to expand within include Austin, Texas; Panama City, Florida; and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The Texas growth is spearheaded by multi-unit operator and CEO of Carpo Pizza Enterprises Kelsey Irvine, who will open 10 new locations in the greater Austin area. At just 26-years-old, Irvine operates 11 Jersey Mike’s franchise locations in addition to this new partnership with Blaze.
“Through my family’s business, I gained an understanding of franchising at a very young age, and have seen firsthand the unlimited potential this industry can offer. When I was introduced to Blaze Pizza, I immediately recognized that the strength of its business model coupled with an exceptional, high-quality product was a recipe for success, and am thrilled to be coming on board in the midst of an exciting period of growth,” said Irvine.
“Blaze has developed a passionate following from consumers throughout the country since its inception, and I have no doubt that the Austin community is going to fall in love with this concept and its one-of-a-kind guest experience.”
Blaze Pizza has also signed an agreement with Kunal Patel, who will expand the brand’s presence throughout the Southeast with six new units. Patel currently has locations under development in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Panama City, Florida, with plans to continue growing throughout the Florida panhandle, Alabama, and Mississippi over the next several years.
“Blaze Pizza kicked off this year with tremendous momentum, which our development team has leveraged to propel our franchise growth efforts, as reflected by these recent multi-unit deal signings. We recognize that our franchisees are integral to the brand’s ongoing success, and are proud that our unparalleled support system and unwavering commitment to operational excellence have attracted experienced multi-unit operators like Kelsey and Kunal,” said Ed Yancey, vice president of franchise development for Blaze Pizza.
“Texas and the Southeast have continued to be ideal markets for our brand, and we look forward to tapping into the wealth of potential in these regions while exponentially expanding our footprint over the next few years.”
