Marco's Pizza debuts franchise development program
Marco’s Pizza has been rapidly expanding, and is now lending a hand to potential franchisees through a new program.
The Toledo, Ohio-based pizza chain has launched its new Franchise Development Royalty Incentive Program, designed to empower aspiring, qualified multi-unit franchise owners with early-stage royalty incentives starting at 0%.
Franchisees who sign three-to-five store franchise agreements will benefit from a phased royalty fee structure designed to support their growth. For the first six months after each store opens, they will pay 0% royalty fees. From months seven to 18, the fee will increase to 2.5%, and after 18 months, it will reach the then-current royalty fee offered.
Marco’s says this gradual increase allows franchisees to reinvest in their locations during the critical early years of business. In 2024, Marco’s awarded 85 franchises and opened 70 new stores.
"As a brand committed to responsible franchising, we're mindful of the cost pressures today's franchise candidates face," said Gerardo Flores, chief development officer of Marco's Pizza. "Our goal is to make franchise ownership more accessible and ease multi-unit franchisees' initial costs. By managing controllable costs, we're proud to offer a program that reflects our commitment to supporting future owners as they navigate this ever-changing economic landscape."
[READ MORE: Marco's Pizza to open first stores in Philly area]
In addition to the new franchise incentive plan, Marco's assists franchisees with a development support system, including technology and tools to help identify territories for expansion, plus support in real estate, construction management, field operations, and information related to financing.
"Supporting entrepreneurs isn't just a goal; it's a core part of our mission," added Flores. "With this program, we aim to ease the initial investment costs that come with franchise ownership, so franchisees interested in multiple units can focus on what matters most: providing exceptional service and growing their business."
Founded in 1978, Marco’s Pizza operates more than 1,200 stores in 35 U.S. states with locations in Puerto Rico, the Bahamas and Mexico.
